A groundbreaking study suggests that making eight lifestyle changes can potentially add more than two decades to your life. Even if you adopt these healthier habits later in life, the research indicates that they can still have a positive impact.
The study, conducted by health science specialists at the US Department of Veteran Affairs, focused on data from questionnaires and medical records collected between 2011 and 2019. The participants included over 700,000 US veterans aged 40 to 99 enrolled in the Veterans Affairs’ Million Veteran Program.
The researchers analyzed the data to identify lifestyle factors associated with a longer lifespan. During the study period, 33,375 participants sadly passed away. The team found that a combination of these lifestyle factors could significantly increase life expectancy, potentially extending a person’s lifespan by several decades.
The eight lifestyle changes that can lead to a longer life are as follows:
- Eat Well: A balanced and nutritious diet plays a crucial role in overall health and longevity.
- Avoid Cigarettes: Smoking is strongly linked to an increased risk of premature death.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep, as it is essential for the body’s regeneration and well-being.
- Be Physically Active: Regular exercise can have numerous health benefits and contribute to a longer life.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact health, so it’s vital to find effective stress management techniques.
- Avoid Binge Drinking: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with higher mortality rates.
- Be Free from Opioid Addiction: Opioid drugs can be harmful and even life-threatening if misused.
- Have Positive Social Relationships: Maintaining meaningful connections and social interactions can positively influence well-being and life expectancy.
Participants who adhered to these eight lifestyle factors had significantly longer life expectancies compared to those who did not adopt them. Being physically inactive, using opioids, and smoking were particularly associated with a higher risk of premature death. On the other hand, stress, poor sleep hygiene, poor diet, and binge drinking were linked to a slightly lower risk of mortality.
While the study’s observational nature means it cannot prove causation, it highlights the importance of lifestyle choices in shaping our health and longevity. Experts agree that adopting healthy habits can play a significant role in preventing chronic diseases and living a more enjoyable and productive life.
Ultimately, taking control of our lifestyle choices and making positive changes can have a profound impact on our overall well-being and longevity.
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