Four steps to a healthier, longer life
Research into healthy living has provided four easy steps to add up to 14 more years to our lives – healthy years.
British researchers surveyed 20,000 people over an eleven year period and asked them about their lifestyles. They gave them one point for each of the following behaviours they did daily:
- Not smoking
- Drinking moderately
- Exercising
- Eating five servings of fruit and vegetables
They then compared people who scored "0" to those who scored "4." The difference was amazing – people who scored "0" were four times as likely to die over the period. That means those who score “4” could expect to live 14 years longer than those who score “0”.
However, not all scores are equal. Not smoking accounted for about 80% of the benefit. The second best habit was eating fruit and vegetables. But just because you don't smoke, doesn’t mean you can ignore the rest. People who scored “2” were twice as likely to die over the period.
How to live 14 years longer
These are the four steps to follow for that extra 14 years.
| Step 1 | Start by not smoking (and quitting if you do). |
| Step 2 | Eat more fruit and vegetables -- at least five servings of a variety of colours and types a day. |
| Step 3 | Drink in moderation. People in the survey who had more than two drinks a day increased their risk of an earlier death |
| Step 4 | Add exercise to your day. |
Why does this work?
These four habits help prevent lung cancer and respiratory illnesses, help your heart and cardiovascular system, and provide nutrients that the body needs to make repairs and maintain health. They also reduce your risk for cancer and heart disease - the top killers.
The bonus benefit
These four habits will not just contribute to a longer life. You'll have more energy, sleep better, and your mood will improve. If that sounds better than what you’re experiencing now, maybe it’s worth a go!
