At 116 years of age, Kane Tanaka is currently the oldest living person on Earth today. Do you want to know her secret to living a long age? Well, according to this article, it might be connected to mental stimulation and a diet low in fat. Oh, and it might also have something to do with the fact that she lives in Japan, which is on record as having one of the highest populations of centenarians!
To improve your life expectancy then, you might want to follow Kane’s example. Of course, you might not want to emigrate to Japan, though you can still focus on your physical and mental health to improve your longevity chances.
Here are some of the things you can do today to improve your life expectancy, though we are talking about daily habits for the most part here, so don’t assume you can follow our suggestions once and let nature take a positive course.
#1: Spend time outdoors
When we spend time exposed to fresh air and sunlight, we are exposed to vitamin D. Studies have shown that exposure to vitamin D can improve our longevity. While you can follow the link we have just given to find out more, we can simplify it for you by letting you know that this essential vitamin is important for reducing the effects of stress, depression, heart disease, and many other health conditions which could limit our life expectancies. Therefore, spend less time in front of your television and more time outdoors, whether that’s going for a walk or simply pottering around in your garden. You will feel the benefits!
#2: Do a crossword puzzle
Or indeed anything that might stimulate your mind. You might also read a book, make a list, or follow Kane Tanaka’s example and play a board game. Studies have shown that frequent mental activity can slow down cognitive decline, reducing the risk of life-limiting conditions such as dementia. Mental activity can also be a distraction from stress, which in itself, is responsible for shorter life expectancies because of the effects on heart health and immune systems. Therefore, do something today to kick your brain into gear. You could pick up the newspaper and do a crossword puzzle, or you might take part in any mind-stimulating activity that you personally enjoy.
#3: Cook something healthy
For the sake of your long-term health and longevity, you need to get serious about cooking. This will reduce the need to eat processed or takeaway foods which, especially if they are overloaded with sugar and fat, could shorten your life expectancy. Focus on meals prepared with those foods that can promote longevity. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fish. There are more in the linked article. So, after reading through this article, look online for healthy recipes, and if need be, go to the supermarket to stock up on your food and life essentials.
#4: Book a health check-up
If you’re due a health screening, then don’t delay. There are all kinds of check-ups we need on a regular basis, and these include blood pressure tests, cancer screenings, and skin checks. Especially when it comes to cancer, many people put off essential screenings, because they don’t know what to expect during a mammogram, cervical screenings, etc. but considering many cancers can be dealt with when finding early, any fears should not be allowed to take precedence over a visit to the doctor. If you’re worried about your health, and if you haven’t seen your doctor in a while, book a visit today. They will explain the various health screenings to you and will allay any fears you might have. Pick up your phone after reading and book that appointment if this applies to you. That phone call could save and consequently extend your life!
#5: Turn off your television
Sitting in front of the television for long periods of time is bad for your health. Fact! It will make you inactive and could lead to weight problems, including obesity. It might make you eat more junk food, and that could have catastrophic effects on your wellbeing. And because you are sat in one place for a length of time, watching TV could lead to blood clotting. As a result of any of these issues, you might reduce your life expectancy. Therefore, do something else with your time. Do that crossword puzzle to stimulate your mind. Go for a walk or a bike ride and exercise your body. And spend time doing anything that will get you off your behind, and away from the glare of the television screen. You might live longer if you do!
Finally
People often say life is short, but that’s not always true, especially when you consider the example set by Kane Tanaka. Therefore, follow her example today. Do something to improve your life expectancy, and who knows; you might become the next record breaker yourself! Booking a flight to Japan is, of course, entirely optional!
