Life expectancy is on the rise with 85-plus population in the U.S. expected to triple to 14.6 million by 2040. But the question is how can we increase our health span, or the amount of time we’ll live in good health. Many people are of the notion that life expectancy is largely determined by genetics. The fact is environmental factors like diet and lifestyle are key whereas genes play a much smaller role. According to experts, our genes only account for about 20%-30% of our longevity meaning we can affect the majority of our aging -- about 70%-80% -- through lifestyle.

Here are some habits linked to a long life. The list has been devised by some of the top home care advisers in Charlotte.

Consume More Nuts- According to studies, nuts have beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, inflammation, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, belly fat levels, and even some forms of cancer. They are not only rich in protein, fiber, antioxidants, and beneficial plant compounds, but also are a great source of several vitamins and minerals, such as copper, magnesium, potassium, folate, niacin, and vitamins B6 and E.

Consume A Wide Variety Of Plant Foods- Eat plenty of healthy plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and beans that may decrease disease risk and promote longevity as many studies have linked a plant-rich diet to a lower risk of premature death, as well as a reduced risk of cancer, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, depression, and brain deterioration. This again can be attributed to the nutrients and antioxidants of plant foods which include polyphenols, carotenoids, folate, and vitamin C.

Quit Smoking- It’s never too late to quit smoking. Keep in mind that individuals who smoke may lose up to 10 years of life and be 3 times more likely to die prematurely than those who never pick up a cigarette. At the same time, moderate your alcohol intake as heavy alcohol consumption is associated with liver, heart, and pancreatic disease, as well as an overall increased risk of early death.

Exercise- There are no two ways about the fact that staying physically active can keep you healthy and add years to your life. Not only can you add an additional 3 years of life (with as few as 15 minutes of exercise per day), but also your risk of premature death may decrease by 4% for each additional 15 minutes of daily physical activity per day.

Avoid Stress- Chronic stress can significantly lower your lifespan. Laughter and optimism are the two important aspects of the solution when you’re feeling stressed. As per studies, pessimistic individuals have a 42% higher risk of early death than more optimistic people.

Keeping your brain sharp through exercise, developing a good sleeping pattern, and maintaining healthy social networks can help you live up to 50 percent longer.

https://www.arogahomecare.com/