The life expectancy rate in the United States sits just below 79-years-old. This is nowhere near the small state of Monaco, which has the highest life expectancy – 89.73 years. For years, people have been trying to unravel the secrets to living a long life. Thanks to new research, more light has been shed on how you can seek longevity and live to a healthy 100.
A 50-year-long study on longevity, by the health sciences department at Sweden’s University of Gothenburg, has identified a combination of factors to be considered for long life. These conclusions are based on the lives of 855 Gothenburg men who were born in 1913 and closely observed and surveyed.
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The men answered detailed questions about their habits, health and family life at age 54, 60, 65, 70, 80 and in some cases, 100. As the surveys were carried out, the researchers considered factors that appear to promote longevity.
Twenty-seven members of the original group of men in the study lived to age 80, 13 percent lived to 90, and 1.1 percent lived to 100.
How to live to 100
After taking all data and longevity factors into consideration, the Swedish research team came up with the following list that can help lengthen your life:
- If you are a non-smoker
- Limit coffee intake
- Maintain healthy cholesterol
- Have a good socio-economic standard
- Are still physically active in your 50s
- Have a mother who lived a long life.
While we can’t control genetics, we can control lifestyle. Just how much genetics and lifestyle contribute to a long life are still hotly debated around the globe. Many health scientists say genetics plays a secondary role. In Monaco, for example, where life expectancy is highest, food selections often are based on a Mediterranean diet. This can include a lot of seafood, which is an excellent source of omega-3s. The diet also includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
What’s really determining longevity?
Medical experts at Stanford University agree that lifestyle is a major influencer when it comes to longevity. In fact, they go so far as to say that loading up on fruits and vegetables can add five years to your life. They also suggest that exercising five days a week can add two to four years to your life.
We have certainly come a long way when it comes to life expectancy. The dramatic increase in the average life expectancy during the 20th century ranks as one of society’s greatest achievements. Much of it is due to medical advancements, as well as the fact that we are better educated about our bodies. Doctors say it is only natural that many people want to live even longer.
In the U.S., the number of people age 100 or older is thought to be around 70,000. If people continue to follow a healthy lifestyle, that number is expected to rise to close to one million by the year 2050. Living to 100 is looking better than ever.
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Secret to anti-aging starts with your diet
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These days, modern medicine has improved so much that doctors are able to treat various diseases, prolonging lives. But there’s still no mechanism to stop the decline of the body as it goes through the natural aging process. As it turns out, though, all you might need is some good old-fashioned “housekeeping” for your brain to slow down the clock. It all starts with the food you eat every day.
Why getting older is good for your health
Did you ever think that you and a bottle of wine may have a lot in common? (And I’m not referring to its full body!) The longer wine sits and ages, the better and more enjoyable it becomes. Well, science now suggests the same holds true for seniors and aging is by no means negative at all!
