"We believe that the biological and clinical level, poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle actually accelerate the aging process," said the study's lead author Nathan LeBrasseur, director of the Center on Aging at the Mayo Clinic.

"Aging cells contribute to the development of diseases associated with aging. However, the results of our studies have shown that physical exercise prevent premature accumulation of senescent cells and protect the body from the harmful effects of an unhealthy diet, "the researchers say.

Some scientists fed mice healthy food, and other mice - food high in saturated fats and cholesterol, as well as sweetened beverages. In mice that were fed junk food, fat mass increased by almost 300% within 4 months. However, the adverse effects of this diet were significantly reduced after exercise.

Half of the mice in both groups were running on a daily basis in the running wheel. Mice who held an unhealthy diet, but the exercises, had a lower weight and the amount of fat, and were better protected against the accumulation of senescent cells than mice that were fed poorly and not doing the exercises.

"Some of us believe that aging happens by itself, and we can not influence this process. However, our research has shown that factors such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity, play an important role in slowing the aging », LeBrasseur said.

The study was published in «Diabetes» magazine.