A recent study presented at the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition in Boston found that eight lifestyle habits could help people live longer. Way longer! The study, which drew on data from questionnaires and medical records collected between 2011 and 2019, covered more than 700,000 US veterans aged from 40 to 99 who were enrolled in the Veterans Affairs’ Million Veteran Program suggested you could add more than 20 years to your life by adopting the following habits.
The habits associated with longevity
The eight habits that were found to be associated with longevity are:
- Exercise regularly. The study found that people who exercised regularly were more likely to live longer than those who did not exercise.
- Eat a healthy diet. People who ate a healthy diet, which included plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, were also more likely to live longer.
- Avoid opioids. The study found that not becoming addicted to opioids reduced the risk of early death by 38%.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking is a major risk factor for premature death, so quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.
- Limit alcohol intake. Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk of cancer, heart disease, and other health problems. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
- Get enough sleep. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Getting enough sleep is essential for good health, and it can also help you live longer.
- Manage stress. Unhealthy stress can take a toll on your health, and it can also increase your risk of premature death. There are many ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time with loved ones.
- Stay socially connected. Social connections are important for good health, and they can also help you live longer. Make an effort to stay connected with friends and family and get involved in your community.
Top 3 most healthy habits
The study also ranked the eight habits in terms of their impact on longevity. The top three habits, in order of importance, were:
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoiding opioids
- No tobacco
The other five habits were also important, but they had a smaller impact on longevity.
Tips for Adopting These Habits
If you’re interested in adopting these habits, here are a few tips:
- Start slowly. If you’re not used to exercising or eating a healthy diet, don’t try to change everything overnight. Start by making small changes, and gradually increase your activity level and the amount of healthy foods you eat.
- Find a support system. Having friends or family members who are also trying to adopt healthy habits can help you stay motivated.
- Make it a lifestyle. Don’t think of these habits as a temporary diet or exercise program. Instead, make them a part of your lifestyle so that you can enjoy them for a lifetime.
Conclusion
Living a long and healthy life is possible. By adopting these habits, you can increase your chances of reaching your goal.
