6 easy ways to stay healthy and live a longer life
Almost everybody wants to keep good health and live longer. But in most cases, that is easier said than done. When it comes to life expectancy, genes are not the main factor, as many people tend to think. The truth is genetics play a relatively smaller role. On the contrary, other factors such as lifestyle and environmental factors have been highly linked to impact your life expectancy. Medical experts have recommended plenty of environmental and lifestyle hacks to help extend your life. Here are simple tips to strengthen your immune system and help enhance your physical and mental health.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Maintaining good health can help extend your life expectancy. Good health means consuming a balanced diet with the recommended nutrition. A balanced, healthy diet typically includes proteins, healthy fats, vitamins (antioxidants and minerals), and carbohydrates such as fiber and starches. It helps more to incorporate other nutrients such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy. Consuming these foods can help reduce the risk of diseases and extend your lifespan.
To remain healthy, you need to limit or avoid consumption of some foods, including added sugar, alcohol, refined grains, and processed foods. These foods are not good for health and can trigger severe health issues such as diabetes, cancer, weight gain, and high blood pressure.
Regular Exercise
Health experts say that people who exercise regularly live longer than inactive individuals. Regular physical activity has several benefits to your body. Besides enhancing life longevity, exercising can promote better sleep and improve your mood. Additionally, it can help control your weight, boost your energy, and combat health conditions such as arthritis, depression, falls, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Aerobic exercise can enhance your heart functionality. Light exercise, like walking and cycling, can help strengthen your bones. Experts recommend at least a 30-minute exercise time on most days.
Manage Chronic Stress
Chronic stress can trigger a number of health conditions that can reduce your lifespan. Stress is reported to trigger an inflammatory reaction of your immune system. For instance, PubMed Central data indicates that females suffering from chronic stress are twice as likely to succumb to stroke, lung cancer, or heart diseases. The best way to manage stress is through exercise. You can try gentle activities like meditation and yoga. In some cases, massage can be all you need to reduce stress levels. You can also consider seeing your doctor if the condition worsens.
Socialize
Some studies show that people who keep social networks tend to live longer. Socializing could mean connecting with family or family. You can also join community clubs and groups to connect with other people. It is said that spending time with other people can significantly reduce stress. It can also engage your mind to keep active and well-functioning. So consider creating useful ties with the people who care about you. You can also get a pet.
Get Enough Sleep
Some studies suggest that having quality naps can help extend your lifespan. Similarly, getting adequate sleep not only regulates your weight but can also help reduce stress. Most importantly, quality sleep gives you the energy you need to kickstart the day ahead. Aim to sleep for a minimum of seven hours every night. Having enough sleep helps your body to relax, repair, and reproduce tissues as well as boost your immune system.
Keep a Healthy Weight
Overweight is associated with several health problems that can reduce your lifespan. When you’re overweight, too much pressure is put on your cardiovascular system to trigger the risk of heart conditions. It can also encourage other health problems like cancer and obesity. Keeping a healthy weight will maintain your heart and enhance a healthy and longer life. For that reason, make sure you maintain a proper diet and adjust your lifestyle.