The Speculist

Longer Life, But at What Cost?

Nobody ever said life extension would be easy. Just yesterday, I wrote that the caloric restriction—the one method that's been clinically proven to extend lifespan (at least in mice)—is probably just too dificult to maintain.

Well, via InstaPundit, here's something else that might work. What are we to make of an activity that provides all of the following benefits:

• Cuts the death rate in half for men who practice it most dutifully
• Reduces risk of heart disease
• Contributes to weight loss and overall fitness
• Improves sense of smell
• Reduces depression
• Relieves pain
• Wards off colds and the flu
• Improves teeth
• Encourages bladder and prostate health

Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? The trouble is, to get the benefits you have to be ready to do this thing three times a week or more. It seems like a fair trade-off to me.

Read and judge for yourselves.