Researchers have found several common lifestyle habits that may help people live a long, healthy life, according to a new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine..
The study, which followed more than 122,000 people over three decades, found that people who adopted a healthy lifestyle in their middle age had a lower risk of death from all causes, including cancer and heart disease..
The study’s authors developed a score for a healthy lifestyle based on current recommendations from the American Heart Association. The score included five key lifestyle factors:.
– Never smoking.
– Maintaining a healthy weight.
– Being physically active.
– Eating a healthy diet.
– Limiting alcohol intake.
The researchers found that people who had a healthy lifestyle score of 4 or 5 had a 24% lower risk of death from all causes, compared to those who had a score of 0 or 1. The risk of death from cancer was 36% lower, and the risk of death from heart disease was 27% lower..
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for longevity and overall well-being. Here are some tips to help you adopt a healthy lifestyle:.
1. **Quit smoking.** Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable death. If you smoke, quitting is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health..
2. **Maintain a healthy weight:** Being overweight or obese increases your risk of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Aim to maintain a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly..
3. **Be physically active.** Physical activity is essential for good health. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week..
4. **Eat a healthy diet.** A healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It also limits processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats..
5. **Limit alcohol intake.** Excessive alcohol intake can increase your risk of liver disease, heart disease, and cancer. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake to moderate amounts. According to the Center for Disease Control, moderate alcohol intake for women is defined as no more than 3 drinks per day and no more than 7 drinks per week. For men, it is defined as no more than 4 drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week..
By following these tips, you can significantly improve your chances of living a long, healthy life..