Today’s fast paced technology, medical and scientific advances gave people the advantage of living longer. But to live longer, three elements must go hand in hand: body, mind, and soul.
Here are tips to make these three elements work favorably:
* Eat a balanced diet. This include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber and low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol. A well-balanced diet can provide your body with the essential nutrients needed to achieve and maintain optimum health. In patients with osteoporosis, or previous fracture, additional supplementation of 800 IU of vitamin D with calcium may be needed. Especially, if dietary intake is poor and access to sunlight is poor.
* Be active. Always do a regular 30-minute exercise daily. Walk in the morning, jog with your friend or take a yoga class or go for a bike ride in the afternoons. Make sure you choose activities that you enjoy, that way you’ll be more likely to make them a habit.
* Always have check ups. Get regular preventive check ups. See your doctor regularly; remember your doctor is your partner in healthcare. The two of you are working toward the same goal – your optimum health. By having regular check ups, you may be able to catch small problems before they become big problems. And, it is just as important to visit your dentist regularly as well.
* Don’t smoke. Smoking is the number one cause of preventable death. This year alone, more than 400,000 people will die from smoking-related causes. It is never too late to quit. Your body will begin to feel the benefits almost immediately. Did you know that after one day of quitting, your risk of having a heart attack decreases?
* Be safe always. Whether you’re indoor or outdoor, always remember safety first. Don’t go for a run, walk, or jog at night by yourself. Most attacks happen to people who are alone. Just by bringing a friend, you reduce your risk. Keep your home well lit and free of things that could make you fall.
Don’t get too much sun, protect your skin with sun block. Dress appropriately for the weather and avoid getting too hot or too cold.
* Be happy. Stay in touch with family and friends and get to know your neighbors. Take the time to be involved with your community. By creating a strong social network, you will not only have friends to celebrate with when good things happen, but also a support system in difficult times.
* Don’t be bitter. Keep a positive attitude. Studies have shown that people who have a positive attitude tend to live longer, and lead healthier and happier lives. Don’t take it all so personal; rarely does it really have anything to do with you. Try to find the humor in life. And remember to laugh; several studies have shown that laughter makes you feel better. But really, who needed a study to prove that. Just laugh, and you will know it is true.
