Most Americans want to live to the ripe old age of 100. This is especially important for Baby Boomers and older adults. But for many people, their health behaviors do not support that goal.
What if investigators could pinpoint three lifestyle variables that can increase longevity, and what if they’re all relatively uncomplicated to achieve and free to everyone?
This is exactly what a group of researchers did recently. Looking at 14,000 U.S. individuals aged 50-89 over a 14-year period, they focused on the lack of three risky behaviors, specifically:
• not obese (BMI less than 30)
• non-smokers (had smoked less than 100 cigarettes during their life)
• moderate alcohol drinkers (for men, less than 14 drinks per week; for women, less than seven per week)
Compared to the general population, people with these three health behaviors lived 3 – 5 years longer, without disability (defined as no limitations in activities such as walking, dressing, bathing, getting out of bed, or eating). Not only was their longevity increased, but the added years were healthy ones.
And compared to individuals who were obese, smokers and alcohol drinkers, men who led the healthier lifestyle lived 11 additional years, and women added 12 years of life!
This study adds support to the role of prevention when it comes to living longer with less chronic health complications. And you don’t have to be young to start making a positive effect in your life.
• If you’re fighting with your weight, seek out the help of a doctor, Registered Dietitian or other healthcare professional. Even if you can’t get your BMI out of the obese classification, a 5% – 10% drop in initial weight brings about tremendous health benefits.
• If you smoke, seek out a smoking cessation program through your doctor, health insurance company or the American Cancer Society.
• If you drink to excess, talk with your healthcare professional or visit an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.
Assess your status on these three health behaviors, and start working your way towards a longer life with greater wellness.
For more ideas to improve your longevity, give me a call!
We can discuss some practical tips and discover if any of my programs or classes are a good fit for you.
If you’d like to schedule that call with me, just CLICK THIS LINK, and let me know in the message that you would like a 1-on-1 call with me right away and I will be in touch to schedule that – oh, and leave me your phone number in there too since email is not as reliable as it used to be! Thanks.