LONG LIVES.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume VII, Issue 10, 7 March 1891, Page 1

LONG LIVES.

* Moke women attain greater ages than men on an average, although more of the latter attain the utmost extent of longevity.’ Hufeland thus endeavoured to account for this important fact : —‘ The equilibrium and pliability of the female body seem for a certain time to give it more durability, and to render it less susceptible of injury from distinctive influences. But male strength is without doubt necessary to arrive at a very great age. More women, therefore, become old, but fewer very old. In the first half of a man’s age, an active, even a fatiguing, life is conducive to longevity ; but in the last half a life that is peaceful and uniform. No instance can be found of an idler having attained to a remarkable great age. Rich and nourishing food, and an immoderate use of flesh, do not prolong life. Instances of the greatest age are to be found among men who, from their youth, lived principally on vegetables, and, in some cases, had never tasted flesh.’ Moreover, let those who will not marry take heed. There is not one instance of a bachelor having attained a great age, and that the fact was as applicable to the female as to the male sex. Many examples illustrative of this sensible theory will occur to the reader.