Our goal in life is to live a long, healthy, and happy life. This may not seem like an easy feat, but science is proving otherwise. Life expectancy is not entirely determined by genetics. Sure, it does play a role, but it’s a much smaller role than what was initially believed. We actually have more control over the number of years than we think. That’s right, we can actually help extend our lifespan. Here are some proven habits linked to a long life.
Stay Physically Active
Okay, so this is a given and comes as no surprise. We all know this is a must for living a long life. We talk about how important it is to stay physically active time and time again. But for those of you who find it difficult to exercise, it doesn’t take much for you to benefit from it. One study found that as little as fifteen minutes of exercise a day could reduce your risk of mortality by 14 percent and extend your life expectancy by three years. These benefits are applicable to both sexes, all age groups, and even those with cardiovascular disease risks.
Control Your Eating
Obviously, what you eat has a significant impact on your health and, ultimately extend your lifespan, but how much you’re eating may also contribute to your longevity. So simply put, stop overeating! A study that involved animals found that reducing caloric intake by 10 to 50 percent increased maximum lifespan.
Researchers have also spent much time studying human populations that are known for their extended lifespans, and they, too, found a link between low-calorie intake and an increase in life expectancy. This is believed to be related to the fact that low-calorie diets help to lower the likelihood of disease as well as reduce excess body weight and fat, which are highly associated with shorter lifespans and mortality.
Add Turmeric to Your Diet
Turmeric is a widely used spice in cooking. It gives dishes their bright yellow coloring while adding lots of health benefits to our food. Turmeric contains a potent bioactive compound called curcumin. Curcumin is known for its anti-aging properties, thanks to its ability to reduce inflammation in the body and help maintain brain, heart, and lung function. It’s also been shown to protect against cancer and other types of diseases, thus helping to extend your lifespan.
Make More Friends
Good strong relationships and friendships not only help to reduce stress, but they also may help you live longer. Research suggests that having a healthy social network can help you live up to 50 percent longer. And just like you don’t have to exercise much to reap the benefits, you don’t have to have a large circle of friends. According to a study published in Psychosomatic Medicine, having just three social relationships may decrease your risk of dying early by 200 percent.
Don’t Worry. Be Happy
If you want to live a long life, you need to prioritize your happiness. Being happy doesn’t just affect your mood; it also helps you live longer. If you’re happy, you may increase your longevity by up to 18 percent more than those individuals who are less happy. A five-year study found that happier individuals had an almost four percent reduction in early death.
One reason for the significant lifespan increase may be due to less chronic stress and anxiety. Happy people don’t tend to dwell on negativity, which results in chronic stress. Pessimism can increase your risk of early death by 42 percent. Of course, being happy and not stressing is easier said than done. This is where you need to prioritize your happiness and take steps to create a positive outlook on life. Laugh, make time to do things you enjoy, and spend time with friends. These little things can have a major impact on your overall health and life.
Go Nuts for Nuts
Want to live longer? Eat more nuts! Nuts are packed full of nutrition, including protein, fiber, and antioxidants. We’ve discussed in the past how nuts can help prevent and manage heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and inflammation. They’ve also been shown to help eliminate belly fat.
Most nuts are high in calories, so you do have to watch your intake. However, one study found that people who ate three servings of nuts per week had a 39 percent lower risk of premature death. Even one serving of nuts a day can help to add some years to your life.
It takes more than exercising a few minutes a day and eating a handful of nuts sprinkled with turmeric to extend your lifespan. You have to take a proactive role and choose Better Health. These are just a few habits that may help to increase your lifespan. But it’s important to note that it takes more than just one good habit to live a long and healthy life. These habits, in combination with other preventative health measures, can assist you in getting healthy and staying healthy, resulting in longevity.