From daily walks to finding a sense of purpose.
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Life is undoubtedly filled with surprises.
But if theres one thing you could be sure of, its that youre going to get older.
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But how do you do this, exactly?
Read on to learnhow to extend your overall lifespan and longevity, according to top experts in the field.
Additionally, regular walking promotes neurogenesis, or the growth of new nerve cells.
Over time, telomeres shorten with age and become inactive, a process that results in death.
However, the habit can mess with your bodys ability to repair and rest, potentially reducing your lifespan.
These effects can increase the risk of chronic diseaseswhich again, can reduce your lifespan.
Getting enough sleephas the opposite effect.
If youre socially anxious or live in a more rural area, it can be difficult to get involved.
While youre at it, look for groups that align with your hobbies and interests.
They Have a Sense of Purpose
Another secret to longevity?
Figuring out your purpose in life.
While community involvement supports social health, finding a sense of purpose goes deeper, explains Barardo.
This can include career goals, personal missions, or passions that go beyond socialization, he adds.
Your sense of purpose will naturally shift and change over time, especially as you get older.
Start by exploring your interests, identifying your values and strengths, andas mentionedgetting involved with your community.
It can also damage brain cells, leading to cognitive decline and conditions like Alzheimers disease, she adds.
This can protect against the aforementioned conditions, ultimately promoting a longer and healthier life.
These foods also promote DNA repair, helping slow down the aging process, Dr. Zalzala adds.
In general, abalanced dietis naturally high in anti-inflammatory foods.
To boost your intake of anti-inflammatory foods, start by eating home-cooked meals whenever possible.
Focus on whole, fresh foods and add fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Check out our favoriteanti-inflammatory recipes.
Alcohol increases inflammation and oxidative stress, which damages cells and tissues throughout the body, says Lorenz.
Beyond physical and mental health, booze can negatively affect your emotional wellness too.
Heavy alcohol use is linked with depression, anxiety, and disrupted sleep cycles, Shah points out.
If you decide to drink alcohol, practice mindful drinking andcut backwhen possible.
https://academic.oup.com/eurjpc/article/30/18/1975/7226309?login=false#no-access-message
