CITY — May 9, 2024 —
At the age of 101, Dr. John Scharffenberg, a doctor and nutritionist, has a simple yet profound message for healthy living: exercise.This article explores the insights of Dr. Scharffenberg, drawing upon his extensive experience and expertise in longevity. We delve into how he arrived at the conclusion that exercise is such a vital component of a long and healthy life. Keep reading to learn more about the science-backed benefits and how to incorporate exercise into your life with Dr. Scharffenberg’s expert advice.
The Longevity Lesson From a 101-Year-Old Doctor
While the name John Scharffenberg might not promptly ring a bell, his insights on longevity are worth considering. At 101 years old, this doctor, nutritionist, and professor emeritus at Loma Linda University offers wisdom gleaned from a life dedicated to health and wellness.
The Power of Movement
Dr.Scharffenberg emphasizes one key factor above all others: physical exercise. he argues that movement is so crucial that it can outweigh other unhealthy habits.
Did you know? Loma linda, California, where Dr. Scharffenberg resides, is a “blue zone,” a region known for its residents’ extraordinary longevity. These areas share common lifestyle traits that contribute to longer, healthier lives.
According to Dr. Scharffenberg, If you do not exercise you will die before. For every hour of exercise you will live three more hours.
This powerful statement underscores his belief in the profound impact of physical activity.
Expert Endorsement
The message resonates with other medical professionals, including Dr. José Abellán, an interventional cardiologist at the Santa Lucía de Cartagena University Hospital in Murcia. Dr. Abellán,a health advocate on social media,shared his support for Dr. Scharffenberg’s emphasis on exercise.
Pro Tip: Even small amounts of exercise can make a difference. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Dr. Abellán stated, At 101 years of age, dr. John schaffenberg, doctor and nutritionist, graduated from Harvard University and a professor at the University of Loma Linda, share the importance of physical exercise. It truly seems to me a very powerful and real message.
He further elaborated on Dr. Scharffenberg’s point: He states that people who have unhealthy habits, but who exercise regularly, will live more than the healthiest people who do not exercise. In addition, he points out that for every hour of physical exercise, they earn up to 3 hours of life. I subscribe this message. It comes from the interpretation of data from an epidemiological study conducted with 17,000 former students of Harvard University,published in the New england Journal of Medicine in 1986.
Dr. Abellán also noted that more recent studies suggest a 1:7 effort-to-benefit ratio, emphasizing that train something will always be better than staying on the couch.
The Science Behind Longevity
Dr. Scharffenberg’s advice is not just anecdotal; it is supported by scientific evidence. Research consistently demonstrates that physical exercise is a critical factor in promoting a long and healthy life.
Reader Question: What types of exercise are most beneficial for longevity?
Answer: A combination of cardiovascular exercise (like walking, running, or swimming) and strength training is ideal. Focus on activities you enjoy to make exercise a lasting habit.
Loma Linda’s status as a blue zone further reinforces the importance of lifestyle factors in longevity. These regions share characteristics such as strong social connections, a sense of purpose, regular low-intensity activity, and plant-based diets.
Dan Buettner,a National Geographic explorer who identified the blue zones,highlights these elements as key contributors to the exceptional lifespan of residents in these areas.
