Author Dr. Mark Liponis had a short one pager in the weekend Parade insert about a week ago. He shared that life expectancy for women has increased from 48 to 71 (from the early 1900’s) and for men it has risen from 46 to 66. Across the board, experts agree that the lifespan increases are due to better nutrition, health care and disease prevention/treatment. Here are his 7 quick hits for increasing YOUR lifespan!
1.) REST UP-at least 7 hours a night is needed for optimal longevity.
2.) EAT RIGHT-meaning at LEAST 5-6 servings of fruits and veggies…or another easy way to remember this is: fruits & roots, greens & beans, seeds & weeds. And, there you have it! Add to this exercise, limiting alcohol and STOP smoking!
3.) MAKE FRIENDS-this can make a 22% difference!
4.) USE IT OR LOSE IT—your mind, that is…keep your brain engaged and…exercise!
5.) MIND YOUR MIDDLE-going back to the waistline again…but it’s a big predictor or mortality. Every inch you lose, adds years. Do something NOW if your waist is over 44” for men or 41” for women. This makes a 25% difference in longevity according to the author.
6.) GET FRESH AIR- if you live in the city, get active in clean air initiatives. Together we CAN make a difference.
7.) MAKE IT A FAMILY THING-if your family members live long lives, it is likely you will, too.
So check it out, of the 7 factors above, 6 of them are in your control. So it’s up to you if you want to live better, longer and wiser.
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