Here’s a hot question: how can we help ourselves to live longer? Is it down to genes, or does lifestyle play a major part?
In the BBC’s new two-part documentary How To Stay Young, 72 year-old Angela Rippon and 36 year-old Chris van Tulleken investigate life choices and practices that could keep us healthier for longer.
In some ways it isn’t revolutionary – lots of it hinges on forms of exercise and eating well – but there are some welcome tips and tidbits.
Those who dread dragging themselves to a cross-trainer every week might be pleased to learn that dancing is supposedly more effective as a form of exercise than the gym, while there’s a novel test to give an indicator of general health – sitting on the floor and trying to stand up as fast as possible without using your arms.
While many of us likely wish for a miracle drug that could sort out our health worries, Chris van Tulleken gets an insight into a pill that might actually elongate our lives – and dresses up as an 80 year-old to get a taste of senior living.
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There is also an insight into the genetic side of aging – with interesting results coming to light through studies involving identical twins.
BBC, 9pm
