“if it does shorten telomere length then it is a factor in shortening lifespan.
the longer you can keep telomeres the better.”
I know that’s stated often, but I’m not sure it’s really been proven.
The whole telomerase thing has seemed a bit of a hype.
Important enzyme, but key to immortality? I don’t think so.
cell lifespan is determined by telomere length. once they are very short cells will no longer regenerate and commit aptosis. there are things people can do to extend short telomeres, and also to prevent telomeres from reducing down so fast. It winds up extending the life of organisms. the last studies I remember reading about this a couple years ago were pretty straightforward in their causality.
http://www.nature.com/news/2010/101128/full/news.2010.635.html
besides there are foods that can increase telomerase, you don’t have to buy a hyped enzyme product. vitamin d, omega-3 oils, folic acid/folate, vitamins b12, c and e, all can help your body increase telomerase production naturally.