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Extreme Running Accelerates Aging, Study Finds
20 Feb
Summary
- Extreme running damages red blood cells, accelerating aging.
- Ultramarathon athletes show inflammation and DNA damage.
- Red blood cell flexibility decreases after long races.
Recent research indicates that extreme endurance running can lead to accelerated aging and damage to red blood cells.
Scientists found that ultramarathon athletes' red blood cells became less flexible after long races, potentially reducing oxygen transport efficiency.
These athletes also exhibited signs of inflammation and a decline in DNA-protective molecules. The study analyzed samples from runners before and after races, including a 171km ultramarathon.
The damage observed in red blood cells and increased inflammation are linked to accelerated aging. Researchers note that damage intensifies with race length, with significant impact occurring between marathon and ultramarathon distances.
Further studies aim to understand the repair mechanisms and long-term effects of this exercise-induced damage, potentially informing strategies to improve athletic performance and blood storage techniques.
