Lifestyle

13 Choices That Could Help You Live Longer

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While waiting for groundbreaking scientific achievements to improve and prolong our lives, some choices could help you live longer. Some things are more evident than others, and some options might be far to reach, but, as they say, the sky’s the limit. As long as you are here, you can make a difference, and sometimes it could help your longevity. 

Work with plants 

You don’t have to be a gardener to prolong your life. You can, however, give your office a makeover and add a purple heart plant. Georgia University’s study proved that working near plants reduces stress and anxiety. Additionally, a plant can help relax your eyes if you’re stuck working on a PC. 

Learn new language 

Studies have said that learning a new language at any age slows your brain’s aging. Additionally, using a second or third language may help prolong the good years, so don’t just learn it, use it! While learning a new language might seem easier when you’re a child, you are never too old to improve yourself. 

Take proper naps 

Naps are not reserved for babies. A study led by Nadine Hausler suggested that occasional napping can decrease cardiovascular disease risk. Napping should not affect your sleep regime, but taking one or two naps each week could lead to a longer life. 

Smile and mean it 

Laughter boosts health by lowering blood pressure, reducing bad cholesterol, improving the immune system, and helping blood vessels function better. A study from Norway found that laughing can improve one’s chances of longevity by 35%. It is important to learn to laugh at yourself and not take life too seriously. 

Hang out with women 

A team of researchers led by Nicholas Christakis of Harvard University reported that men raised with more women in their environment live slightly longer. If you think this is suspicious, remember that married men have a better chance of longevity. Speaking of marriage, the University of Rochester reported that a healthy marriage could benefit your heart as much as quitting smoking. 

Get a Nobel Prize 

A 2007 study conducted at Warwick University in the UK discovered that Nobel Prize winners live 1.4 years longer than those “just” nominated. The study suggested that it is not really about the prize as much as about one’s social status, though further research will reveal what’s behind this longevity secret. 

Be a social butterfly 

A study by Brigham Young University revealed that keeping your social schedule busy improves your mental health and reduces risky behaviors. Having a good support group in the form of best friends can potentially increase your longevity by a staggering 50%. 

Find your size 

Research has suggested that slightly overweight people live longer. The study concluded at Kaiser Permanente in Portland revealed this astonishing discovery, though Oxford University in England found this somewhat true for women with pear-shaped bodies. Fat on your belly is bad, but around your hips could reportedly lower the risk for heart and metabolic diseases. 

Move to a Greek island 

Icaria, a Greek island in the North Aegean Sea, has the highest percentage of 90-year-olds in the world. AARP and National Geographic concluded a study that showed these seniors rarely had dementia, had 20 percent lower cancer rates, and had 50 percent lower cardiovascular diseases. 

Floss regularly 

The Department of Periodontics at Case Western Reserve University researchers found that flossing can be a key to a longer life. It is not only about keeping teeth from falling out but also about protecting the body from infections and inflammation that allow harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and boost the risk of heart conditions. 

Clean up your house 

Cancer Research UK study found that women who spend up to 17 hours doing chores potentially reduced the risk of breast cancer by as much as 30%. The truth could be that house chores, like other physical activities, including exercising, help maintain a healthy body weight. 

More on plants 

No one says that you have to become a new-age-eating tree hugger, but a plant-based diet could improve your longevity by 21%, a study led by Dr. Xuan-Mai Nguyen concluded. You can embrace a Mediterranean diet or add more leafy greens to everyday meals. Surrounding yourself with green veggies and plants will benefit your body and mind. 

Get a cat 

The University of Minnesota’s Stroke Institute in Minneapolis researchers found that cat owners had a reduced risk of heart attack by 30%. Cats decrease anxiety and stress, and with their purrs, they send vibrations that can help with pain, bone and muscle growth, and wound healing.

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