Queen Elizabeth and Her Extraordinary Longevity. Is It her genes?

Queen Elizabeth and Her Extraordinary Longevity. Is It Her Genes?

In Britain, up until last week, it was "Long Live The Queen". Queen Elizabeth was the epitome of healthy longevity. She enjoyed an extremely long and active life until the age of 96.

Apart from the Queen's access to healthy living and a disciplined lifestyle, inheriting good genes also contributed to her record-breaking stint on the throne. It is good to note that the Queen's mother lived up to 101. Here are some of the late monarch's healthy longevity habits.

• Regular Exercise
  According to various news reports, Queen Elizabeth walked her dogs, rode horses, and went hiking. She made it a point to stay active throughout her life and into old age. Studies show that older people who are more active live longer and healthier lives.
• A Sense of Purpose in Life
  Queen Elizabeth's life was centered around duty and service to her nation. She was performing her official duties well into her 90s. A growing body of research suggests that having a purpose in life is strongly linked to physical and mental well-being — and becomes more important as we age.
• Work, Work, Work
  In the book Longevity Project, authors Leslie R. Martin and Howard S. Friedman explain that hard-working, prudent types live the longest. Queen Elizabeth never retired — she appointed Liz Truss as Prime Minister just two days before her death.
• Time Spent in Nature
  Queen Elizabeth loved nature and spent considerable time hiking and on picnics. Research published in Nature confirms that spending time in natural environments benefits health and well-being. Green vegetation is linked to increased lifespan.
• Animal Companions
  Her famous Corgis weren't just pets — they were health allies. Interacting with animals lowers cortisol, decreases blood pressure, and helps manage stress, according to the National Institutes of Health.
• Strong Social Connections
  The Queen's days were filled with people, meetings, and family. Chronic loneliness is a risk factor for shortened lifespan. Strong social connections decrease the risk of premature death.
• Tea & Dark Chocolate
  Queen Elizabeth started every morning with Earl Grey Tea and enjoyed afternoon tea daily. Tea is rich in antioxidants that reduce free radicals and prevent cell damage. Dark chocolate, another favourite, is rich in antioxidants and minerals that reduce inflammation.

What Is the Secret to a Long Life? Is It Genes, Habits, or Both?

In India, elders often bless with "May you live a long life." MapmyGenome has launched an initiative focused on people above 90 to answer the billion-dollar question: What is the secret to longevity?

The influence of genetics plays an important role in the lifespan of those who are 90 and beyond. In this initiative, MapmyGenome analyzes the genes of centenarians and near-centenarians using Genomepatri — our comprehensive DNA-based health and wellness solution covering 100+ easy-to-read reports.