Insulin levels may affect aging

So far only worms are seeing the benefit, but in a recent study worms who had their insulin levels adjusted lived longer than their counterparts. Researchers found that added insulin reduces the activity of a gene-regulating protein called SKN-1. So, by lowering the levels of insulin in the worms researchers subsequently boosted the protein -- resulting in an increased lifespan. The SKN-1 protein essentially acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.

Researchers believe the findings hold hope for future human medicine.