Why Humans Don’t Live Beyond 100 Years

For centuries, humans have been fascinated by the quest for eternal life. While we’ve made tremendous progress in medicine and technology, the human lifespan remains stubbornly capped at around 100 years. But why?

Genetic Limitations

Our DNA contains a built-in expiration date, with errors in replication and repair mechanisms contributing to aging. Telomeres, the protective caps on chromosomes, shorten with each cell division, limiting the number of times cells can divide. This genetic clock ticks away, influencing our lifespan.

Cellular Aging

Epigenetic changes, oxidative stress, and inflammation all take a toll on our cells. As we age, cells become senescent, losing functionality and contributing to the decline of our bodily systems. This cellular aging process is a key factor in our limited lifespan.

Hormonal Shifts

Hormonal changes, such as decreased growth hormone and increased cortisol, occur with age. These shifts impact our metabolism, energy levels, and overall health, making it harder for our bodies to maintain optimal function.

Evolutionary Trade-Offs

Energy invested in longevity might divert resources from reproduction and growth, making it less likely for humans to evolve longer lifespans. This trade-off prioritizes the survival of our species over individual longevity.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Poor diet, stress, lack of exercise, and exposure to toxins all reduce our lifespan. While we can control some of these factors, others are inherent to our environment and lifestyle.

The Complexity of Human Biology

Aging is a multifaceted process, involving intricate interactions between genetic, cellular, and hormonal factors. This complexity makes it challenging to extend human lifespan significantly.

While we may not be able to live forever, research into aging mechanisms and interventions aims to increase our health span and potentially extend human lifespan. By understanding the reasons behind our limited lifespan, we can work towards a healthier, happier life – even if it’s not an eternal one.

The article has been prepared with the help of Meta AI

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