FOCUS ON HEALTH
Do you know what today’s average life expectancy is? If you’re a woman, the average is 79 years. If you’re a man, it’s 74 years. Would you like to live even longer? Below is some advice to put you on track for a long and healthy life.
1. Eat your greens—-a diet full of fruits and vegetables that provide you with antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, will help to keep your body healthy.
2. Reduce salt intake—-high salt may contribute to high blood pressure, which affects 50 million Americans according to the American Stroke Association. Lowering blood pressure can decrease the risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
3. Meditate—-the International Journal of Neuroscience reported that daily mediation may add 12 years to the average life span of senior citizens.
4. Motivate yourself—-achievements can improve your outlook on life.
5. Reduce job stress—-the American Institute of Stress estimates that 1 million workers are absent on an average workday because of stress related complaints. Although some stress can be good, don’t let it rule your life.
6. Get in touch—-University of Miami School of Medicine research has shown that forms of touch, such as massage or holding hands, are great in strengthening alertness, performance, and immune functions.
7. Laugh—-USA Today reports that laughter can improve your immune system. Plus it just makes you feel better.
8. Make friends—-they’ll keep you active, involved, and help lower your stress levels.
9. Stimulate your mind—-learn something new everyday. Read a book, read The Waynedale News, join discussion groups—anything that gets your wheels turning.
10. Get a pet—-yes, they benefit your health. In fact, CNN reported on several studies showing that people who have suffered heart attacks have survived longer if they had a pet around.
11. Quit smoking—-the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 87% of lung cancer deaths are attributed to cigarette smoking.
12. Keep active—-any form of physical activity is beneficial to your health and state of mind.
13. Strength training—-muscles weaken as we age, so any form of resistance training can help maintain and build muscle strength.
14. Get enough sleep—-the National Sleep Foundation states that a lack of sleep may diminish the quality of life and add to deteriorating health.
15. Stay positive—-optimism can improve your quality of life.
Remember that vital organs, such as your brain and heart, work better the more you use them. Staying physically and mentally active can improve longevity. This list is not an all or nothing proposition. Incorporating just one or two of these suggestions could possibly add years to your life-and life to your years.
LIVE LONG AND PROSPER
Check out the list of legends below. Will you live as long?
Lived 100 years-Comedian George Burns (1896-1996)
Lived 91 years-Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo (1475-1564)
Lived 90 years-Tragic poet Sophocles (496-406 B.C.)
> Read More Information About Us
> More Articles Written By Our Staff
- Community Invited To Paint Rocks For Urban League Project - April 26, 2024
- The “Bad Guys” In Your Garden & What To Do About Them - April 26, 2024
- Why Voting In The Primary Election Matters - April 26, 2024