Five easy life changes that'll help you live longer, according to an expert

Ever wondered why in some countries people live so long compared to others?

The answer might lie in their lifestyle habits. We all know that healthy living is better for our mind and bodies and can lead to longer lives.

And it’s never too late to start making those changes. One longevity expert – that’s someone who has studied why some groups live longer than others – shared some secrets.

Dan Buettner, from Minnesota, U.S, has spent more than two decades studying the ‘blue zones’ – areas of the world where people have the longest life expectancies.

The author and public speaker certainly knows what he’s talking about; he’s penned nine books on the matter and hosted the Netflix show Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.

In some new social posts, Dan shared that creating healthy habits doesn’t need to be a complete overhaul of your life that requires you to quit the things you enjoy cold turkey.

And if you stick to these habits, in the long run, you might end up living a long and healthy life.

Here are some of the expert’s tips:

Cook one healthy meal a week

Dan explains that many people start with lofty New Year’s resolutions to begin a diet that fall apart after some time.

Instead, he recommends setting manageable targets such as cooking one healthy meal from scratch a week.

He said in a social media video: ‘In a few days when 2024 starts, about 90 million Americans will make New Years’ resolutions, and by February 1, 80% of them will fail.

‘So instead of a resolution this year, learn how to cook at home. Get a hold of a plant-based cookbook. 

‘Every time you go out to eat, you consume about 300 more calories than you would if you just used your stove and sat around the kitchen table with your family.’

Cook three new dishes a month

Similar to the first goal, Dan encourages people to get out of their comfort zones and try some new things.

‘Make it a challenge, try to cook three new recipes in January, or until you find some you like,’ he says.

‘Because the most important ingredient when it comes to eating for longevity is taste. 

‘Once you figure out how to make a handful of delicious plant-based recipes, my job is over, I’ll see you when you’re 100.’

 

Move naturally

Many of you may have noticed that gyms get busier at the start of the year. And while that’s a great thing, sometimes it can mean you lose the drive later on, says Dan.

Intense gym sessions particularly might not work for large parts of the population if they run out of gas.

Instead, he says, ‘just live [your] lives and move naturally.’

‘I make a point of living in walkable communities so that every time I go to work, to the grocery store or to pick up coffee, I’m walking,’ he said. 

‘I live in Miami Beach, and I can go weeks without using my car. I love biking. I also enjoy paddle boarding and pickleball.’

Go to bed early

This is an age-old open secret to living a happy and healthy life. But it can be hard, especially when revenge bedtime procrastination kicks in.

But the earlier you sleep, the earlier you rise.

Dan explains that from his extensive studies into the blue zones, he found the longest living people typically fell asleep shortly after sunset.

They also arose shortly after sunrise.

Find likeminded people who share your goals

Dan encouraged mixing with likeminded people too, to make it easier to live the life you aspire to have.

Whether that’s someone to cook with, or move with, or even someone who has healthy sleeping habits, surround yourself with people who will encourage you to keep going.

So, why not call up a pal and commit to making a new dish together?

Dan explained that these are some healthy habits you can start incorporating into your life that won’t completely overhaul it overnight.

by Faima Bakar          Jan 8,2024

source: metro.co.uk