Healthy aging
This is a follow-up to the senior fitness article we had a few weeks ago.
We can’t have a perpetual life. As we grow older, our chromosomes (that thread-like structure of DNA found inside the nucleus of the cell) get shorter which makes us susceptible to diseases. Adapting healthy habits can enhance enzymes that makes them longer, thus slowing aging at the cellular level. WebMD shares to us some tips on longevity.
Studies reveal that people showing close attention to detail are more likely to live longer as they make better choices for their health, relationships and careers. Being sociable can also add years to our lives but it is dependent on the habits and lifestyles of close acquaintances as it can influence us. Going out with friends who drink and smoke more likely than not gets us into the habit. Likewise, if our social ties frequently raid lunch and dinner buffets, our chances of getting obese rises.
A British study showed that quitting smoking at age 30 can give us 10 more years. Dropping the habit at 40 adds 9 years. Quitting at age 50 or 60 adds 6 and 3 years to our lives respectively. The average lifespan of a non-smoker is 85 years, 13 years less for smokers.
Often our social ties lead to relationships and ultimately marriage. Research say that married couples tend to outlive the single ones because of the economic and social support that marriage provides. Unless of course a spouse does something that tempts the other spouse to shorten the lifespan.
Science had proven that naps can also extend our lives. A study showed that people who regularly have naps are 37% less likely to die from heart ailments as to those who don’t. It was observed in studies that naps keep stress hormones down, putting less strain on our hearts. Quality sleep help us recover from illness quickly. At least 5 hours of sleep each night is recommended so let’s make a good night’s sleep a priority.
Diet and exercise are never far behind. Fruits, veggies, whole grains, fish and unsaturated fats keeps our weight down reducing the risks of elevated blood sugar levels and hypertension that lead to heart ailments. Obesity takes years off our lives. Research had shown that even 10-minute spurts of activity is ok if they add up to about 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week. It does not mean that after a vigorous 10-minute exercise, we can just sit for the rest of the day.
In a 12-yeaar study done on people above 65, those who go to religious services at least once a week had higher levels of a key immune system than those who don’t go to church. Church people develop a social network that can also boost our health. And yes, praying for each other’s well-being is a plus. Being spiritual makes it easier for us to forgive. Letting go of grudges reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure and helps us breathe easier. Learning to forgive have physical benefits as we get older.
A Japanese study found that men with purpose were less likely to die from health problems than those who were less sure of themselves. Activities, hobbies or projects that means to us may help add years. It can also lower our chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease.
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