The strong connection between longevity and choices like diet and physical activity has always been evident. However, a new study, yet to be published, brings to light the possibility that specific behaviors can add over two decades to one’s life expectancy.
Unveiled at the recent annual conference of the American Society for Nutrition, the study highlights that adopting eight wellness practices by the age of 40 could lead to an added 24 years for men and 21 years for women.
Xuan-Mai Nguyen, the principal author of the study from the Department of Veterans Affairs, expressed astonishment at the significant potential gains. “Whether you adopt one, two, three, or all eight lifestyle practices, the benefits are undeniable,” said Nguyen. “Starting early is ideal, but modifications even in your 50s and 60s can be fruitful.”
Top 8 Life-Extending Habits
The research ranked the eight practices based on their influence on life expectancy:
- Regular physical activity
- Abstaining from opioid addiction
- Avoidance of smoking
- Effective stress management
- Consistent healthy eating
- Refraining from excessive alcohol consumption
- Ensuring quality sleep
- Fostering strong social bonds
Interestingly, the integration of even one practice could result in an additional 4.5 years for men and 3.5 years for women. Incorporating just two practices could mean an additional seven to eight years of life for males and females, respectively.
The research, part of the expansive Million Veteran Program, assessed the lifestyle habits of over 700,000 U.S. military veterans aged between 40 and 99.
Sedentary lifestyles, opioid consumption, and smoking posed the gravest threats to longevity, increasing death risks by 30% to 45%. Other factors, such as high stress levels, excessive drinking, an unbalanced diet, and insufficient sleep, were correlated with roughly a 20% higher death risk. The absence of nurturing social interactions was linked to a 5% risk increase.
Nevertheless, Nguyen concludes on a hopeful note: “Remember, it’s never too late to embrace a healthier way of life.”
