In light of the aforementioned evidence and of the fact that aging is potentially associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance [16], chronic inflammation [17] and CHD [18], as well as with increased levels of circulating zonulin [19] and LPS [20], we hypothesized that both a low intestinal permeability and endotoxemia may be associated with a lower risk of CHD and contribute to healthy longevity. This evidence concerns the gene HP and serum lipopolysaccharide activity.