KEY POINTS

  • Lifestyle plays a very important role in increasing the lifespan of a person
  • There are certain activities that you can do help increase longevity, and one of them is to live a healthy lifestyle
  • On the other hand, you must avoid four kinds of activities, which are known to reduce longevity

Dying at an early age was once the subject of superstitious beliefs. Breakthroughs in scientific studies, however, as well as observational data, have all dispelled the myths.

The truth, as established by these studies, is even more empowering. It revealed that lifestyle practices could determine hugely the length of your lifespan.

For instance, particular habits have been proven to be clearly unhealthy. This means that avoiding them can help improve longevity.

Smoking

Smoking was once a common norm in society. Depressing statistics, however, show that this habit poses one of the most hazardous risks to longevity.

habits to avoid to increase longevity
habits to avoid to increase longevity geralt - Pixabay

Large-Scale research revealed that smokers might decrease their lifespan by up to ten years. They are three times more likely to die prematurely compared to people who never held a cigarette in all their lives.

Another study reported that those who got rid of the habit by age 35 might improve longevity by up to 8.5 years. This means it is never too late to stop smoking.

Binge Drinking

Consuming too much alcohol has been linked to pancreatic, liver, and heart diseases, as well as an increased risk of premature death. Moderate consumption of alcohol, however, has been linked to a lower risk of developing several diseases and a 17% to 18% decrease in the risk of early death.

One particularly beneficial alcoholic beverage is wine. It has received much favor because of its rich polyphenol antioxidant content. 29-year research showed that those who opted to drink wine are 34% less likely to prematurely die compared to those who prefer spirits or beer. The NHS said the recommended amount of wine to drink should not exceed 14 units per week.

Stress and Anxiety

High levels of stress and anxiety have been shown to shorten lifespan. One study showed that women who suffer from anxiety or stress are two times more likely to die early from stroke, lung cancer, or heart disease. The risk of early death is also three times higher for stressed or anxious men compared to their relaxed counterparts.

The findings of the study also proved that pessimistic persons are at a 42% higher risk of premature death compared to optimistic people. Having a positive outlook and laughing always have also been found to minimize stress and can prolong your life.

Binge Eating

The relationship between calorie intake and lifespan has also been drawing the interest of researchers. Studies made on populations that have been known to enjoy longer lifespans showed that lower calorie intake could extend lifespan and minimize the likelihood of developing some ailments. Calorie restriction has also been showed to greatly help in reducing excess belly fat and total body weight, both of which are linked to shorter lifespans.