STAY better, LIVE longer

With the advent of industrialization, the race for success has taken such a toll on human lives that one scarcely gives time to one’s body. This seems a little easy to comment upon but entails along with it a series of dismal diseases. It is indeed ironic that we devote around 10 hours to our work everyday but hardly any hour to our health. The very argument would be strengthened if we look upon the elderly people who are as fit as a ten-year old kid. One of the biggest factors that determine how well you are is not your genes but how well you live. A study published in 2009 in the British Medical Journal of 20,000 British folks shows that you can cut your risk of having a stroke in half by properly balancing your health. In order to pave a path for framing our lifestyle so as to devote a significant amount to our health and mind, let’s first devote a few seconds to know the DO’s and DON’T's for the healthy lifestyle.

1. Say NO to idleness

Studies show that societies where people stop working for a long period of time, the cases of obesity and chronic diseases are reported after retirement. It is advised that people should indulge in activities on a regular basis so as to pay adieus to the state of being inactive.

2. Walk and Talk

Jay Olshansky, a professor of medicine and aging researcher at the University of Illinois at Chicago says that “Exercise is the only real foundation of youth that exists. It’s like the oil and lube job for your car.” It is certainly true that exercise improves one’s mood, mental activity, balance, muscle mass and bones. This does not mean that one has to follow a gym or a dance or aerobics class. Simply, walk! Walk for at least half an hour and you’ll definitely see the difference. One can go for morning walk regularly and thus can achieve the goal of a healthier life. Also, one must stay connected with friends and can go for a session or two of laughter therapy with them. Having regular social contacts with friends and loved ones is key to avoiding depression, which could lead to premature death which is prevalent in elderly women. Having a daily connection with a close friend or family member gives older folks the added benefits of having someone watch their back!

3. Brush your teeth twice a day

A study has shown that daily flossing reduced the amount of gum-disease-causing bacteria in the mouth. It also keeps the arteries healthy. Research also highlights that those who have a high amount of bacteria in their mouths are more likely to have thickening in their arteries which is a serious signal of heart diseases. One should floss twice a day in order to have a cheerful life.

4. Maintain a control over your diet

Consuming whole-grains, particularly in the morning, helps one maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day, thereby helping one to have a less chance to be attracted by Diabetes. Studies cry that people who have high blood levels of certain nutrients- selenium, beta-carotene, Vitamin C and E, age much better and have a slower rate of cognitive decline. One should avoid white food that lacks nutrients and must ensure to consume a large amount of juicy and colorful fruits.

Tags: good health tips, healthy lifestyle, stay healthy