Tuesday, May 15, 2012

7 Tips for Living Longer




1) KEEP MOVING: An active lifestyle can add up to four years to your life and cut your risk of stroke and heart attack by 20%.

2) BUTT OUT: A 2004 study shows that quitting smoking at ages 30, 40, or 50 can extend your stay on earth by 10, 9, or 6 years, respectively,

3) MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT: Keeping excess pounds in check can add an additional 1.3 years to your life.

4) EAT BETTER: Focus on variety. Studies show that fruit flies that were given apple polyphenols daily lived 10% longer than those that weren't. Researchers speculate the finding carries over to humans. Incorporate as many food groups into your meals as possible, and pay attention to things like freshness and color-the brighter, the better.

5) LOWER CHOLESTEROL: Soluble fiber in whole grains and vegetables can help lower your arterial cholesterol levels as can the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. U.K. research shows that keeping your cholesterol levels in check along with your blood pressure and not smoking may extend your lifespan by up to a decade.

6) MANAGE BLOOD PRESSURE: Controlling BP can cut your risk for heart attacks and stroke by more than 25%. Take charge today by cutting down on sodium and alcohol whenever possible.

7) MONITOR DIABETES: If you're diabetic, check your blood sugar regularly--no matter how annoying that pinprick to the finger may be. And work at staying lean. Dropping just 5% of your body weight can help delay effects of the disease.

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