5 Healthy, Research-Backed Habits that Will Help You Live Longer
by Cascade Ice on March 26, 2021
A common misconception is that how long you live is determined mostly by genetics. But research shows that there are many daily habits you can adopt that will pave your way to a healthier lifestyle and ultimately help you live longer.
Read on for 5 research-backed tips on how to lengthen your life expectancy.
Eat More Plants
According to recent studies, eating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds and nuts (similar to the Mediterranean diet) can promote longevity.
Eating these foods regularly can reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease, depression, and can even keep your brain healthy. Why does a plant-based lifestyle do this? Because of all the vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants found in these foods – they can ward off disease better than any supplement can. Eating lots of plant-based foods can boost your overall health and keep your body performing well, longer.
Stay Active Every Day
It’s no shock that staying physically active can keep your weight down and put you on track to being healthier overall. But did you know it can also add years to your life? Research shows that as few as 15 minutes of exercise each day can help you live longer! And additional studies have shown that the more physical activity, the less likely to die early.
The most important thing is to simply start. If you’re currently sedentary, making small, slow changes such as a short daily walk or a gentle yoga session to elevate your heart rate and keep your blood flowing. 15 minutes each day is the goal, but even small amounts will help, so get moving!
Prioritize your happiness
Mental health is often not prioritized like diet and exercise for most people, but it is incredibly important in prolonging your life. Recent research shows that feelings of happiness can increase your longevity. In fact, happier study participants had a 3.7% decrease in early death.
Identify what it is that brings you feelings of happiness, whether it’s being outside or with friends and family, and make those things a priority daily. They will have positive effects not only on your mood but also your lifespan.
Get some ZZZ’s
The results of sleep studies have long been documented, and prove that getting enough quality sleep is needed for regulating cell function and helping your body recover from environmental stressors. But one study went even further to prove that regular sleep patterns and longevity are directly correlated. The study found that getting less than 5–7 hours per night is linked to a 12 percent greater risk of early death. Getting too little sleep can also put you at risk for some of the biggest chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
So how should you establish sleep patterns for a long, healthy life? Start by aiming for 8 hours of sleep per night of uninterrupted sleep, and try going to bed at the same time each night. Also, avoid any distracting things 30 minutes before bed, such as bright lights and electronics.
Stay hydrated
One of the simplest things you can do to make your body run like a well-oiled machine is drink plenty of water. Our bodies are made up mostly of water, so staying hydrated keeps you healthier.
Being hydrated has proven time and again to help your body function its best, as well as ward off sickness, give you energy, and keep your body’s organs working their best. Therefore, studies suggest, you can expect that having a healthier, hydrated body will help add years onto your life. But what if the idea of chugging plain water all day is daunting? Cascade Ice Sparkling Water to the rescue! You can liven up your daily water intake with a little bit of flavor and zero calories or sugar.
What daily, healthy habits do you make to add years onto your life? Tell us in the comments below or share a photo! Remember to “like” and “follow” us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
