BARCELONA , Spain, May 8 (UPI) -- A Mediterranean diet, a temperate climate, little stress and regular physical activity most likely explain why a Spanish man lived to age 114, researchers say.
Study leader Adolfo Diez Perez of the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona says the man had no genetic modifications that could have contributed to his longevity. The research team studied the bone mass and analyzed the genetics of the man who at the time of the study was 113.
The findings, published in the Journal of Gerontology, said the man's bones were in excellent condition and the researchers did not find any mutations in the KLOTHO gene, which is generally related to a good level of mineral density and healthy bones. Neither did they find any mutations in the LRP5 gene, which is associated with longevity.
The researchers say the findings do not rule out the possibility that other genetic mutations could influence longevity. However, they say the 114-year-old man from the island of Menorca, who died recently, cycled every day until he was 102 and looked after the family orchard.
His family also has excellent health including: a 101-year-old brother, two daughters ages 81 and 77, and a nephew age 85.
