Researchers have identified eight key rules that can help people live significantly longer, according to a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition. The study, which involved over 700,000 American veterans aged 40 to 99, found that adopting these healthy lifestyle habits could add an average of 24 years to men’s lives and 21 years to women’s lives.
The study focused on factors such as physical activity, avoiding opioid addiction, not smoking, managing stress, eating a healthy diet, moderate alcohol consumption, good sleep hygiene, and positive social relationships. The results showed that low physical activity, opioid use, and smoking had the most significant impact on lifespan, while stress, alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, poor sleep habits, and lack of social relationships also played a role.
Lead researcher Xuan-Mai T. Nguyen, a health sciences specialist at the Department for Veterans Affairs, emphasized the importance of adopting healthy habits early on but also noted that making changes at any age can still be beneficial. The research does not definitively prove causality, but the findings suggest that lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on health and longevity.
The study, which analyzed data collected between 2011 and 2019 from the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program, also highlighted the role of lifestyle factors in preventing chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. By making healthier choices, individuals can reduce their risk of these diseases and potentially live longer, healthier lives.
Nguyen emphasized the importance of lifestyle medicine, which focuses on treating the underlying causes of chronic diseases rather than just their symptoms. Adopting healthy habits, even later in life, can still lead to a longer life expectancy. Overall, it’s never too late to start living a healthier lifestyle.
The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the impact of lifestyle choices on longevity and overall health. By following these eight simple rules, individuals can potentially add years to their lives and reduce their risk of chronic diseases.