Proven tricks to add years to your life
It’s no secret: Americans are living much longer than they were a century ago. Thanks to the advancement and evolution of modern medicine and technology, we’ve seen the average life expectancy increase to 77.5 years.
While this updated life expectancy estimate is still longer than previous generations, there’s a catch.
There are many factors that lead to a long life. And, news flash: your genetics only make up a small portion of your overall health and well-being, and 30 percent of your life expectancy. Ultimately, it begins and ends with you making the choice to live a healthy lifestyle — and yes, luck needs to play in your favor, too.
5 simple tricks to add years to your life
1.
Exercise regularly
According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s important to aim for 30 minutes of physical activity per day. Moderate aerobic exercise includes activities such as brisk walking, biking, swimming and mowing the lawn. Keeping physically active is key to a healthy lifestyle, but be sure to check with your doctor before you start any new exercise routine.
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2.
Fill up your plate with healthy foods
With the number of fad diets and food trends, it can be overwhelming when trying to eat a healthy diet. It’s important to remind yourself to cut through the noise and get back to the basics. If you can’t read or pronounce any of the ingredients, don’t eat it. Keep your plate filled with protein, healthy fats, veggies, fruits and grains.
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3.
Get enough Zzz’s
According to the National Council on Aging, 30 percent of American adults experience symptoms of insomnia. With a number like that, it’s more than likely you, or someone you know, is struggling to get the recommended six to eight hours of sleep per night.
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4.
Manage your stress
It’s hard not to be stressed out these days. Between your full-time job, after-work activities and making sure the kiddos are picked up from school and fed dinner, it’s likely your mind is running around in circles. If you don’t identify and stop stress in its tracks, it can lead to a number of health issues such as insomnia, high blood pressure and weight gain.
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5.
Develop strong, personal relationships
From our computers, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, cellphones and more, we’re a society that is constantly distracted. Instead of sitting down at the dinner table and talking about the day, we’re sitting in front of the TV watching the latest season of your favorite show on Netflix. It’s time to turn off the technology and start developing the strong, personal relationships with those who matter most.
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We’ve got a challenge for you: Each week write down a commitment to make one healthy choice. Once you have those down, take each of the commitments and build on them, a little bit at a time. If you’re looking for a new approach to living a healthier life (and living longer), try “habit stacking.”
You’ve only got one body: take care of it.
Disclaimer
Blue365® is a registered mark of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.