How to live better and longer [part 2]

7) Maintain a purpose in life as having a strong purpose definitely extends life! A plethora of good reasons to awake is linked to a busier and healthier brain and heart aging. A purposeful life is associated with a lowered early mortality risk.

8) Spend time with loved ones as social connection improves longevity by supporting healthy levels of stress hormones and immune system function. It aids in boosting mental health, brain health and cardio health. Strong family (blood or chosen) ties are the most consistent predictors of a long and healthy lifespan.

9) Remain mentally active via reading, learning languages, working puzzles or starting a business that you have always dreamed about—all of these (and more) promote neuroplasticity, therefore lessening cognitive decline and increasing brain stimulation. Lifelong learning and mental challenges war against cognitive decline.

10) Get regular amounts of sunlight as it promotes Vitamin D production/absorption which is essential for bone health, immune function and more. Safe sun exposure helps regulate Circadian Rhythm for enhanced REM sleep.

11) Drink green tea as it is rich in catechins and antioxidants like EGCG which support brain and heart health and protect an already healthy immune system. Green tea promotes healthy systemic aging.

12) Limit alcohol as it is an age accelerator by damaging organs, disrupting sleep and increasing disease risk. Wine has been linked to breast cancer. No drinkers have a lower risk of “all cause” mortality. If you want to reap the benefits of red wine, just drink grape juice as they are all there, and if you miss the taste of the wine, all you have to do is add a couple of tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to it.

Stay tuned next week for more anti-aging tips!