8 habits for healthier, stronger, and longer life after 40
Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Experts from the American Society of Nutrition have presented a new study examining human behavior. According to this research, there are habits that can increase life expectancy by more than 20 years, leading to a healthy and fulfilling life, according to the Nutrition magazine.
The top 8 factors
The experiments involved over 700,000 individuals from the Million Veterans Program, aged between 40 and 99. Data from medical records from 2011 to 2019 were also analyzed.
According to the study results, there are 8 lifestyle factors to focus on to increase life expectancy.
1. Exercise (physical activity, sports)
2. Strong social relationships
3. Good sleep hygiene
4. Avoiding alcohol abuse
5. Maintaining a healthy diet
6. No smoking
7. Reducing stress to a minimum
8. No dependence on opioids
According to scientists, individuals with these 8 habits at the age of 40 significantly increased their life expectancy compared to those who did not adopt any of these habits. In women, life expectancy increased by 21 years, and in men, it increased by approximately 24 years. Moreover, the mortality rate in people with these habits decreased by 13% during the study period.
It's never too late to start
Researchers argue that understanding the benefits doesn't necessarily mean adhering to all 8 points immediately, and one can start at any age, even after 40.
Of course, the earlier one adopts these habits, the better, but if you've already crossed the threshold of 40, it's not too late.
High mortality risk factors
All 8 practices are crucial for longevity and health, but some of them pose a risk of early mortality. For instance, long-term smoking, opioid use, and insufficient physical activity. With these three factors, the risk of early death increases by 30-45%.
For older individuals, physical activity is crucial. Regular exercises offer numerous benefits, helping to stay alert, maintain health and physical fitness, enabling independence, preventing falls, and positively impacting psychological well-being.
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