- Exercise
There is no secret that physical activity is good for you health. Exercise helps you maintain a healthy body weight and lowers your blood pressure, both of which contribute to heart health and a reduced risk of heart disease–the top worldwide cause of death.
- Drink in moderation.
I know you’re probably picturing a glass of red wine right now, but recent research suggests that indulging in one to three glasses of any type of alcohol every day may help to increase longevity. Studies have found that heavy drinkers as well as abstainers seem to have a higher risk of early mortality than moderate drinkers.
- Reduce stress in your life.
Stress causes your body to release a hormone called cortisol. At high levels, this hormone can increase blood pressure and cause storage of abdominal fat, both of which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease.
- Watch less television .
A 2008 study found that people who watch six hours of television per day will likely die an average of 4.8 years earlier than those who don’t. It also found that, after the age of 25, every hour of television watched decreases life expectancy by 22 minutes. Television promotes inactivity and disengagement from the world, both of which can shorten your lifespan.
- Eat less red meat .
Red meat consumption is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and cancer. Swapping out your steaks for healthy proteins, like fish, may help to increase longevity. If you can’t stand the idea of a steak-free life, reducing your consumption to less than two to three servings a week can still incur health benefits.
- Don’t smoke.
As you probably well know, smoking significantly increases your risk of cancer.
- Eat foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the risk of heart disease and perhaps even Alzheimer’s disease. Salmon and walnuts are two of the best sources of Omega-3s.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
Being overweight puts stress on your cardiovascular system, increasing your risk of heart disease. It may also increase the risk of cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for heart health and living a long and healthy life.
- Laugh often Laughter.
Reduces the levels of stress hormones, like cortisol, in your body. High levels of these hormones can weaken your immune system.
- Don’t spend too much time in the sun.
Too much time in the sun can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. However, sun exposure is an excellent way to increase levels of vitamin D, so soaking up a few rays–perhaps for around 15 minutes a day–can be healthy. The key is moderation.
- Cook your own food.
When you eat at restaurants, you surrender control over your diet. Even salads tend to have a large number of additives, from sugar to saturated fats. Eating at home will enable you to monitor your food intake and ensure a healthy diet.
- Eat mushrooms.
Mushrooms are a central ingredient in Dr. Joel Fuhrman’s GOMBS disease fighting diet. They boost the immune system and may even reduce the risk of cancer.
