“11 Life-Changing Habits That Could Help You Live to 100: From a young age, we are taught the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to ensure a longer, happier life. We all wish to age gracefully and stay active well into our later years. However, how many of us truly take steps towards achieving this goal? Not many!
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A Scientific Push for Motivation
In 2009, a study involving 20,000 British participants was published in the British Medical Journal. The research revealed that engaging in four key activities can cut the risk of having a stroke by half. These activities include 30 minutes of daily physical activity, eating five servings of different fruits and vegetables each day, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Lessons from Centenarians
Research on people who have lived beyond 100 years shows that they share certain lifestyle habits regarding diet, stress management, and physical activity. By adopting these habits, we can improve our own chances of aging healthily.
“11 Life-Changing Habits That Could Help You Live to 100
Floss Daily
Thomas Perls, a researcher at Boston University School of Medicine, emphasizes that flossing can improve life expectancy by promoting arterial health. A 2008 study by New York University found that flossing reduces gum disease-causing bacteria, which can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation in the arteries, contributing to heart disease.
Avoid Full Retirement
Stopping work entirely can lead to the onset of chronic illnesses. Instead, find fulfilling activities in retirement, whether through hobbies or part-time work. In Italy’s Chianti region, many centenarians stay active by working on small farms even after retiring from their careers.
Prioritize 6 Hours of Sleep
Luigi Ferrucci, an aging expert, notes that sleep is crucial for regulating and repairing cells. Older adults need a minimum of six hours of sleep to experience the restorative REM phases necessary for maintaining health.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise is often called the “fountain of youth.” According to Jay Olshansky, a professor of medicine at the University of Illinois, even 30 minutes of daily physical activity can improve overall health and longevity. Exercise helps the body function more efficiently, much like regular maintenance for a car.
Choose Fiber-Rich Breakfasts
A recent study by Ferrucci’s team found that eating whole grains, particularly in the morning, helps stabilize blood sugar levels throughout the day. This reduces the risk of diabetes, a common precursor to age-related health problems.
Follow the Seventh-Day Adventist Lifestyle
The Seventh Day Adventists practice a lifestyle that promotes health and longevity by avoiding smoking, alcohol, and excessive sweets. They prioritize a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods while also maintaining strong family and community ties.
Stay Socially Active
Maintaining social connections is key to preventing depression, which can lead to premature death. Staying involved with friends and family not only boosts mental health but also helps identify health issues before they become serious.
Manage Stress Effectively
Stress is inevitable, but how we handle it makes a difference. Perls’ research on centenarians shows that they tend not to internalize stress or dwell on problems, which helps them live longer more content lives.
Stick to a Routine
Olshansky’s research indicates that centenarians often follow strict routines, including consistent sleep schedules, regular meals, and daily activities. This stability helps maintain the body’s equilibrium, reducing vulnerability to illness.
Focus on Whole Foods Over Supplements
While nutrients like selenium, beta-carotene, and vitamins C and E are known to aid in the aging process, experts recommend obtaining these from whole foods rather than supplements. Whole foods contain a variety of compounds that work together to promote health.
Be Conscientious
Conscientious individuals tend to live longer, according to research from “The Longevity Project,” which followed 1,500 children for eight years. Those who were organized, reliable, and persistent not only lived longer but also enjoyed more fulfilling lives.
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly increase your chances of living a longer, healthier life.