You Deserve To Eat Well

A lot of people seem to want to eat well, but tend to fall back into the same destructive habits. While it may be confusing at times as to why this may be, the truth is that no matter how much we want to do things right for ourselves, it is difficult, if not impossible, if you do not fully believe you deserve to be taken care of.

Whether it is being taken care of by yourself or someone else, you do deserve to eat well. All of us have self doubts at times, and some of them are so deeply rooted within us that it can lead us to act in destructive ways, whether we want to or not. However, if we are willing to consider the fact that our self-perceptions are flawed, we can take the steps necessary toward healing those broken pieces of ourselves that make us stop believing we are worthy of being taken care of.

However, nothing that is injured within us is necessarily going to be broken forever. We can take the steps necessary to heal ourselves. Even though that is difficult at times. You have to be devoted to a path of self-healing before you can ever dedicate yourself to eating a nourishing diet if food is one of the things you use to punish yourself.

One thing you can do to help yourself develop the self-love you need to believe you are worth a future full of healthy foods and free of disease that is caused by the easy to access processed foods that are so abundant is speaking with someone who is qualified in helping you to identify self-destructive thoughts and patterns that are holding you back.

You can also practice other types of self-love, using methods such as mindfulness, journaling, and meditation. If you start a gratitude journal, you begin to take a close look at your life and see the things that you have to be grateful about. When you are able to look at the positive things in your life, it can make it that much easier to see positive patterns and good things about yourself and the people you care about. Not only that, but developing that mind-body connection is an essential part of learning to believe that you truly do deserve to eat healthy, nourishing foods.

You can also attempt meditation as a way to get centered within yourself and utilize mindfulness as a way of seeing the opportunities and beauty in every new day. Mindfulness meditations help us to get closer to ourselves both inside and out and align with our true needs and desires, such as the need to be nourished and healthy and safe. 

However you choose to enhance your mind-body connection, all of these are bound to help you to learn how to value yourself more deeply. When you value yourself, you make decisions based on what truly fulfils you and you will allow your body to thrive!

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Why The Best Diet For A Long Life Is A Real Foods Diet

Avoiding meats is a very popular lifestyle to have, but there are many benefits to a vegetarian lifestyle besides the welfare of animals. Here are some of the benefits of going vegetarian and how it could help to increase your life expectancy. 

Fewer calories and less fat

You may not be looking to lose weight, but eating a diet without meat usually means you will consume fewer calories and less fat. If you're eating chocolate and cakes all day, you will still be eating vegetarian but will be consuming lots of calories, so you still have to think about making the right choices. Generally, vegetarians will consume fewer calories simply because vegetarian foods contain less calories than those with meat. Even without thinking about cutting down on calorie intake, vegetarians tend to eat around 75% of the calories that non-vegetarians eat in a day. By doing so, there are at a much lower risk of developing obesity and heart disease, and if they are already overweight, going vegetarian can help to reduce excess fat. 

Cancer may not be as much of a risk

There are currently many studies into this topic, but experts suggest that meats such as bacon and other pork-related foods could link to the increase of people developing cancer in the Western world. Studies have suggested that bacon could be more carcinogenic than cigarettes, which is already a leading cause of cancers. 

Higher cholesterol

Cholesterol found in meat and dairy products could potentially contribute to cancer, heart disease and other major health issues, according to studies. We are told to cut down on the amount of eggs and dairy products we eat, and avoid regular consumption of red meats and fatty meats. This is because they can raise cholesterol to dangerous levels, which can result in reduced blood supply and chronic pain. 

Lower risk of diabetes

Type 2 diabetes can develop in people of any age, but it usually develops in those between 45-60 who are overweight and eat poor diets. For people with diabetes, there is a constant risk of developing other health issues such as heart disease. Too much meat is thought to be one of the factors which contributes to the development of diabetes. Those who avoid meat or have meat-free days during the week generally have lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and a decreased risk of developing serious health problems.

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Why Detoxes And Diets Won't Help You Live Longer

After Christmas, after a two-week vacation somewhere sunny with lots of food, or just when we decide our bodies need a change, the word 'detox' suddenly enters our mind and we start frantically eating healthy in order to lose weight, feel better and get healthier. However, while some diets and detoxes can be good for you, there is little evidence to suggest that they can help you live longer. 

They're not easy to fit into your lifestyle

Many diets and detoxes that we read about aren't sustainable and cannot be implemented healthily into your lifestyle. That's why many of us only do them for a few days before having to return to our previous diet. In order to eat in a way that will help you live longer and healthier, you should find a plan that works for you and that can be followed for many years. Sure, you might not stay on track every single day of your life, but at least it will be something you can follow and stick to for 99% of the time. 

You'll feel tired and lethargic

Extreme diets that force you to eat only certain foods for an extended period of time can leave you feeling tired and lethargic and lacking energy. You might feel great when you step on the scale after seven days to find you've dropped five pounds, but that's mostly water weight and not the excess fat you dream of shedding. Failing to get all the nutrients your body needs (which is what happens during detoxes) will cause you other health problems, such as weak bones, sleepless nights and a lack of energy which will affect all areas of your life. 

They're extreme

Since detoxes are so extreme in many cases and force people to take dieting to another level, it creates the idea that good foods and substances should be consumed in very large quantities. This is why we hear about people drinking excessive amounts of green tea, which eventually leads to chronic dehydration and can cause UTIs. Plenty of things can be good for you, but it must be in moderation. Green tea has many benefits to it, but if you drink upwards of two cups per day, you will likely find yourself suffering from a variety of issues. 

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Why Overeating Could Shorten Your Lifespan

We all sometimes go a bit overboard with our eating. Everybody is guilty of eating too much at one point or another. Sometimes we go to a party or a BBQ and end up eating way too much. Indulging every once in a while is not bad for you, but regular overeating can shorten your lifespan significantly. There are a couple of reasons for this and we are going to go over those reasons in this article.

Weight gain eventually leading to obesity

One of the big issues with overeating is that it can lead to weight gain. Now, weight gain is not healthy and it can lead to several physical and mental issues down the line. But, the real issue is that weight gain can eventually lead to obesity. Obesity will absolutely take a huge toll on your body and it will result in many years being taken off of your life. For starters, obesity leads to higher blood pressure. Higher blood pressure makes it harder for your body to circulate blood. It also puts more strain on your heart. This can result in strokes and heart attacks. 

Another issue with obesity is that it drastically increases a person’s risk of developing cancer. Both obese men and women are at a greater risk of developing cancer, but obese women are the most vulnerable to developing cancer. 

Heart disease

Another big issue with overeating is that it can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. See, people who overeat tend not to eat healthy foods. More than likely when they overeat, they are eating unhealthy food. Unhealthy food leads to an increase in LDL cholesterol, which is the kind of cholesterol that you want to avoid. As this cholesterol starts to clog your arteries, it can cause things like heart attacks and strokes.

Diabetes

People who overeat are at risk of developing type-2 diabetes. Diabetes can be controlled with insulin, but that does not mean that it will not take years off your life. Diabetes can result in your immune system being weakened, which opens the way for various infections and diseases. Likewise, diabetes can cause various issues with the cardiovascular system. Also, diabetes can result in serious damage being done to the kidneys. 

Now, overeating once in a while is normal, but overeating constantly will result in you having to deal with many of the above issues, which will end up making your lifespan significantly shorter.

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What We Can Learn From The Japanese About Living A Long, Healthy Life

Japan’s population as a whole is rapidly becoming one of the oldest in the world. By 2025 3.1 million residents in Tokyo alone will be age 65 or older. Because older adults tend to have more health needs, Japan wanted to find way to keep them healthier as they grow older, thereby keeping down national health costs. In one area especially – Nagano, home of the 1998 Olympics - it is working exceptionally well, despite some differences from other areas of Japan.

Tucked high in the Alps of Japan, Nagano has long and harsh winters; land suited for farming is limited and being far away from the coast, they don’t have the access to fresh salt-water fish as often as do their coastal brethren. 

Yet the people living here enjoy one of the longest life spans in Japan: 87.2 years for women and 80.9 years for men. When compared to Hawaii, which has the highest average lifespan age in the United States at 84.7 for women and 78 for men, one must wonder what is their secret to longevity?

With the environment they live in, you would not expect that kind of longevity, but as it turns out their keys to living long are due to:

Diet

They weren’t always as healthy as they are now. In 1981, they had the highest rate of strokes in all of Japan. It turns out the cause was from eating a diet high in salt… from pickled vegetables. Once they reduced the amount of sodium they were eating by changing their diet, life expectancy rose by 3.5 years for women and 3 years for men in just 10 years. Now they eat very little salt. 

Preventative care

The city found various incentives worked as far as getting people in Nagano to get regular medical checkups. Where they shopped started distributing health information as a way of educating people on their health. What they found is that by spending money on the front end, much could be saved in medical costs later. It ended up being a “know your numbers” campaign that improved overall health and longevity.

Staying active

The town of Nagano created over 100 walking routes and even regularly sponsors communal walks. They also encourage people to continue working once they reach retirement age or to find a second career to keep them active.  Those that have a purpose in life end up being healthier and living longer. 

Their keys to living long would work anywhere; it is just getting people to live by their three rules of longevity: eating a healthy diet, getting regular medical checkups and keeping active.

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Why Smoking Shortens Your Lifespan

By now, pretty much everyone is aware of just how awful smoking is for you. So many anti-smoking campaigns have been run at this point that really no one can claim that smoking is not bad for them. But not everyone knows just how bad smoking is for them. Sure, they have heard smoking is bad for them, but they do not know specifically why. So, in this article, we will be covering just a few of the many reasons why smoking will dramatically shorten your lifespan. 

Increased risk of cancer

Alright, let’s start with the most well-known reason why smoking is bad for you. Smoking dramatically and noticeably increases a person’s risk of developing cancer. Cigarette smoke is full of carcinogens, which are cancer-causing chemicals. There are over 40 confirmed carcinogens in cigarette smoke alone. And do not just think that cigarettes cause lung cancer either, cigarette smoke can cause a wide variety of different kinds of cancer. Cigarette smoke has been linked with increased rates of stomach cancer, throat cancer, larynx cancer, mouth cancer, and a bunch of other different kinds of cancer. 

Increased risk of coronary issues

Smoking can also cause issues with your arteries. Various studies have found that smokers are at a far greater risk of suffering from things like strokes and coronary artery disease than non-smokers. The reason for this is that the various chemicals in cigarettes can negatively impact things like your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can then lead to issues with your arteries. 

Reduced lung capacity

One of the big issues with smoking is that it does horrendous damage to your lungs. The chemicals from the cigarette smoke attach themselves to the small air sacs in your lungs, which then reduces your ability to breathe. Smoking can also lead to numerous lung issues, such as bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, and asthma. Smoking also reduces your lung’s ability to cope with these issues, meaning your lungs will be more vulnerable to damage in the event that you do contract one of those diseases. 

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Why Eating More Fruit And Veggies Will Help You Live Longer

When you were younger you were probably told to eat your fruits and vegetables. As we get older we generally do not need to be told to eat their fruits and vegetables, but that does not mean that they get enough in their diet. Plenty of adults do not get the necessary amount of fruits and vegetables in their diet.  In fact, eating more fruits and vegetables can actually add years onto your life; so, if you are not already getting enough fruits and vegetables in your diet, you should start doing so. Here are just a few of the ways that eating more fruits and vegetables can make you live longer.

Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease

One of the best things about a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is that it drastically reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. In the United States, over 2000 people a day die from cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death and it is responsible for cutting many lives short. All fruits and vegetables can help prevent cardiovascular disease to a certain extent. But, leafy greens like kale, spinach, lettuce, cabbage, etc., are by far the most effective vegetables for reducing heart disease. 

Reduce risk of developing cancer

One of the biggest benefits associated with consumption of fruits and vegetables is the fact that it can potentially reduce your risk of getting cancer. Vegetables that are not starchy, such as cabbage, garlic, onions, lettuce, spinach, and kale all lower the risk of developing certain types of cancers. Likewise, fruit has also been shown to be effective at reducing the risk of developing certain types of cancer. Now, increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables does not reduce the risk of developing all types of cancer, but it will reduce the risk of developing cancer in the stomach and in the throat. 

Reduced blood pressure

High blood pressure can lead to several larger health issues, especially for older people. These larger health issues include heart attacks, strokes, and other very deadly issues. Thankfully, studies have found that diets rich in fruits and vegetables can lead to massive reductions in blood pressure. In some cases, switching to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables proved to be just as effective at reducing blood pressure as blood pressure reducing medication. 

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Why Checking Your Blood Pressure Is So Important If You Want To Live A Long, Healthy Life

When you go to the doctor for a routine check-up, one of the things they will do is check your blood pressure. When you are in hospital for any kind of treatment, your blood pressure will be checked and monitored if you are staying overnight or for any length of time. This is because blood pressure is one of the most important things in our bodies to regulate, and it can change rapidly and regularly. 

What is blood pressure? 

Many of us hear about blood pressure without really understanding what it is. When your heart pumps blood around the body to provide oxygen and energy, it pushes against the blood vessels. This is, in basic terms, what blood pressure is. It's important that the blood isn't putting too much pressure on the vessels (high blood pressure), but it shouldn't put too little pressure on the vessels either (low blood pressure). In order to have a healthy blood pressure reading, your body should be pumping blood which puts just enough pressure on your blood vessels. 

Why is high or low blood pressure dangerous? 

High blood pressure can put lots of strain on your blood vessels and arteries, which basically means you are at a much higher risk of having a heart attack or a stroke. Low blood pressure means that you will feel lethargic and lacking in energy, and can lead to episodes of fainting and in severe cases, can cause heart attacks and strokes too. 

How do you manage your blood pressure? 

There are several things you can do in order to make sure your blood pressure is healthy. While you may find it varies each time you get it checked by the doctor, you can lead a healthy lifestyle and make some changes in order to either decrease or increase your blood pressure (depending on what you have been advised). Regular exercise can help you to maintain a healthy blood pressure – 4-5 times a day for around 45 minutes. You can build this up if you are not used to exercising regularly – slowly add it into your weekly routine. 

You should also avoid foods which are high in bad fats and sugary foods. If you have high blood pressure, avoid putting too much salt on your foods, while those with low blood pressure can afford to eat a little more salt. Include oily fish, nuts, seeds and bananas in your diet too.

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The Negative Effects Of Loneliness On Your Lifespan And Quality Of Life

We all know that being lonely does not feel good. But, at the same time, most people do not think of being lonely as something that can actually physically hurt you… they would be wrong. Humans are not solitary animals, we do not enjoy being alone for extended periods of time, we crave companionship. When humans are denied any form of companionship for long periods of time they can start to suffer from various issues which will impact their quality of life, and in some extreme cases could even shorten their lifespan. We are going to talk about a few of the negative effects of loneliness that can negatively impact a person’s lifespan and their quality of life.

Increased risk of suicide and depression

Extended periods of loneliness are associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and an increased risk of depression. People need fulfilling relationships to keep themselves mentally healthy. If someone is unable to form or maintain fulfilling relationships with others, then they will start to eventually blame themselves. People who cannot form relationships with others will start to feel that they are worthless or that they are unloved, which can then lead to depression and suicidal thoughts. Now, depression alone may not lead to a shorter lifespan, but it can certainly lead to destructive behavior like drug abuse, overeating, and alcohol abuse, which certainly can shorten your lifespan. 

Reduced sleep quality

Sleep is extremely important for both your physical and mental health. It is when a person is sleeping that the body takes the time to start healing, both physically and mentally. But, loneliness can reduce the quality of a person’s sleep. A person who has intense feelings of loneliness will be more likely to be restless during the night, which reduces the quality of sleep. Those who are lonely also find it harder to fall asleep at a normal time.

Increased stress levels

People suffering from loneliness experience increased stress levels. Things that would normally only cause a small amount of stress in a regular person, will cause far more stress in a lonely person. Increased stress levels are directly related to numerous health issues that can impact both a person’s quality of life and their lifespan. For example, increased stress can cause high-blood pressure, which then leads to strokes and heart attacks.

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How to Reduce Your Risk of Getting Cancer In Your Lifetime

In the western world, we are going through a bit of what some experts call a “cancer epidemic.” More and more people are getting cancer in their lifetime. A lot of this is due to the lifestyles that people lead. Certain choices in life will increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. In this article, we are going to cover some ways that people can reduce their risk of getting cancer. 

Quit smoking

This one really goes without saying. By now, everyone should know of the various negative health effects associated with smoking. Cigarettes cause cancer because of the huge amount of chemicals that are contained within the cigarettes themselves and the smoke produced by the cigarettes. Cigarettes do not just cause lung cancer either, they can also cause throat cancer, mouth cancer, and larynx cancer. Cigarettes can even cause cancer in areas that you would not expect, such as the stomach or the cervix. 

Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity has long been linked with an increased risk of cancer. This is especially true with obese women, who are at a far greater risk of developing breast cancer than non-obese women. Now, obesity can cause a wide array of non-cancer related health issues, so even if it did not cause cancer, people who struggle with obesity should seek to change that. 

Avoid excessive drinking

Drinking alcohol in small quantities can be healthy for you. Red wine, for example, has a wide variety of health benefits when it is consumed in moderation. But, when alcohol is consumed excessively for a long period of time, then it can start to cause a variety of health issues, one of which is an increased risk of developing cancer. People who drink excessively are at risk of developing several varieties of cancer, including stomach cancer, kidney cancer, and liver cancer.

Avoid tanning 

One of the most common types of cancer out there is skin cancer. Getting some sunlight is crucial for humans, who need the vitamin D that the sun provides. But, letting the sun’s UV rays hit your unprotected skin will drastically increase your risk of getting cancer. Avoid tanning or sunbathing and make sure that if you go outside with uncovered skin (for example, if you are going to the beach) then make sure that you bring a strong sunscreen to protect you from the UV rays. 

These are 4 strategies that you can use to reduce your risk of getting cancer. There is no one method to prevent someone from getting cancer, but using these strategies can help lower your chances. 

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How The Sun Can Help You Live Longer

Usually, when you think of things that can make you live longer, you think of things that require a lot of time and effort. Things like exercise and strict dieting can add years onto your lifespan, but they also require a lot of effort. However, there are some things that you can do to increase your lifespan and make you healthier that do not require you to put any real effort in. One such example is staying out in the sun. The sun is one of our chief sources of vitamin D and yet, despite being very easy to get, around 75% of American teens and adults are vitamin D deficient. In this article, we are going to explain just how beneficial the sun can be for you. 

Reduced risk of cancer

Now, I know what you are saying, “exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause cancer, so how do those same UV rays protect you from cancer?” While it is 100% true that UV rays can cause skin cancer if proper precautions are not taken (such as using sunscreen), lack of exposure to sunlight can also increase the risk of cancer developing. People living in climates where sunlight is harder to come by are at a greater risk of developing various types of cancer, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and pancreatic cancer to name a few. 

Reduced risk of heart disease

It turns out that the vitamin D that you get from sunlight can actually be helpful in preventing the onset of heart disease. One study looked at the possibilities of using vitamin D to both prevent and treat heart disease. It ultimately concluded by pointing out that there is evidence that vitamin D has some potential when it comes to preventing and treating heart disease. It will take more studies before this can be said with certainty, but when it comes to something as serious as heart disease, which ends many lives prematurely, you should take every chance to increase your protection. 

Reduced blood pressure

A study looked at the effects of using vitamin D to help treat people suffering from high-blood pressure. People with high-blood pressure were exposed to UV rays for a period of 3 months, during which time their blood pressure normalized. Furthermore, their blood pressure stayed normal, even after the treatments stopped, which shows just how powerful the UV rays were; the same UV rays that you would get from sunlight. 

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should be out for hours and hours – this would increase your risk of skin cancer and signs of aging in your skin. If you’re fair-skinned, you’ll only need about 10 minutes of midday sun per day (though this will vary depending on where you live).

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How Does Stress and Anxiety Affect Life Expectancy?

'It will put me in an early grave!' is a phrase we often hear when people are complaining about the amount of stress and anxiety they are going through. While it is usually said tongue-in-cheek, there is more truth than we realize in this statement. Too much stress and anxiety in your life can have adverse effects, which could cause serious problems in the long run. 

Whether it's stress at home, stress in the work place or stress caused by other issues such as money matters or a death in the family, feeling like you can't relax isn't good for you. 

People who experience recurrent depression and/or anxiety statistically have a life expectancy of 7-11 years less than somebody without the same issues. People who worrying about things a lot or stay awake at night stressing could be reducing their lives by up to 20 years. 

What health problems come with stress and anxiety? 

Stressing out about things releases too much cortisol into your system, which brings with it many different health issues. Weight gain is among the most common among these, which could lead to obesity, heart disease, diabetes and strokes. It also affects your ability to think properly and concentrate on tasks, affecting your performance at work or school. Apart from that, too much cortisol can knock your blood pressure into an unhealthy range, usually by making it too high. These are the problems which cause people to live shorter lives – it is not necessarily the stress itself but all the other things that come along with it. 

How to reduce your stress and anxiety levels

There are several things you can do to get rid of some of the stress and anxiety that you are feeling. 

• Exercise regularly. This releases dopamine which is the 'happy' hormone and can help to counterbalance the high levels of cortisol in your body. 

• Write your thoughts down or speak to somebody. Many of us feel like we are burdened with all our stresses, and talking about it with someone else can help us feel like we have gotten rid of some of it. 

• Take a bath and light candles. Play some relaxing music too and ask other people in the house to be quiet for a while. 

• Spend time with people you love. This will make you feel happier and less stressed, and if they're happy to lend an ear for you to chat about your worries, that's a bonus! 

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Does Sitting Too Much Shorten Your Life?

You may have heard that it's a good idea to get up and walk around if you've been sat down for more than an hour or two, and there's a good reason for doing this. While sitting down won't automatically shorten your life expectancy, it can certainly increase your risk of developing certain heart problems, which in turn could cause you to live a shorter life.

Many people have jobs which require them to sit down for long periods during the day. Receptionists, office workers, cashiers, bus drivers and other occupations mainly involve sitting down for the majority of the working day. Here are some of the health risks associated with sitting down for too long. 

Poor posture

Sitting down for hours at a time could mean that you end up sitting in an uncomfortable position which results in poor posture for many years to come. This can lead to severe pain which, as you get older, will only worsen. While posture itself can't really shorten your life, it can create other problems such as weakened bones and spine, poor breathing technique and a lack of mobility, which can all be very dangerous. 

Blood clots

Many blood clots aren't dangerous enough to kill you, but some can be very severe and painful and could lead to premature death. Sitting for too long can cause blood clots to develop, particularly if you are sitting in a confined space such as a plane or train. Whenever possible, you should get up and walk around every hour or two to help your blood flow and prevent clots. 

Slower metabolism

A fast metabolism will burn food and excess fat quickly, while a slower one will take much longer and can lead to a person becoming overweight or even obese. Since overweight and obese people are statistically more prone to developing health problems like heart disease and diabetes, this could lead to an unhealthy lifestyle, making it almost impossible to live a long life. 

Higher risk of heart disease

Along with heart disease, there are other problems you could develop, such as cancers and diabetes. Those working in sedentary jobs are more than 60% likely to develop heart disease than those working in more active jobs. In women, breast cancer is more common among those who work sitting down for long periods of time. 

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Does Eating Superfoods Help You Live Longer?

If you have never heard of the term “superfood” before, it essentially refers to those foods that are considered to be extremely high in nutrients, vitamins, and other good things that help keep you healthy. See, a lot of foods are considered to be extremely rich in nutrients; plenty of fruits and vegetables are packed full of good nutrients and vitamins, but that does not necessarily make them “superfood.” In order to be a superfood, a food has to do some really amazing stuff for your body. In this post, we are going to look at some superfoods that can help you live longer. 

Blueberries

Blueberries are one of the most commonly known superfoods out there. Plenty of people know of the enormous health benefits of blueberries. For those who do not know, blueberries are chocked full of vitamins and nutrients. For starters, like many other types of fruit, blueberries are loaded with vitamin C, which is necessary for the maintenance of cells. Vitamin C is one of the essential vitamins and you should always be getting vitamin C. It is also full of potassium, which is a mineral that helps keep your heart and cardiovascular system working in tip-top-shape. If that was not enough, blueberries also act as anti-inflammatories. This means that they can help fight inflammation caused by infections or other issues. Finally, blueberries have also been shown to be effective at preventing the onset of heart disease and cancer. Given all the things they can do, it should be no surprise that blueberries are considered a top superfood. 

Coconut oil

Coconut oil, as you can probably tell from the name, is oil that is extracted from coconuts. Although it does not taste great, it is chock full of good things for your body. Coconut oil is full of protein, so if you need that, coconut oil is a great source. Coconut oil also contains medium chain fatty acids, which essentially help your body by preventing the build up of LDL cholesterol (which is the bad cholesterol) and by encouraging the buildup of HDL (which is the good cholesterol.) Because of this, coconut oil can help prevent heart disease and other issues stemming from high cholesterol.

Kale

To start with, kale is full of various kinds of vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin K, calcium, vitamin c, vitamin B6, and a bunch of other nutrients. Kale also helps to keep cholesterol levels low, which in turn helps to prevent issues with the cardiovascular system. It may not taste great, but kale is an amazing super food that can add years onto your life.

These are not the only superfoods that you can take, but they do show just how effective superfoods can be.

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Do Obese People Live Shorter Lives On Average?

From a young age, most of us are told that it's important to eat healthy and maintain a healthy weight that is in proportion to our height. Carrying excess weight on our bodies can come with several health problems in the long run. You are considered obese if your BMI (body mass index) is 30 or above. You can calculate your own BMI by dividing your weight (kg) by your height (m) and then by your height again, or simply use on online tool to help you. 

Do obese people die earlier? 

According to statistics, obese people are at a much higher risk of dying sooner than those who are a healthy weight. Of course, this does not mean that maintaining a healthy weight will prevent all health issues during your lifetime, but being obese can definitely contribute to a person's life ending prematurely. Men with a BMI between 30 and 35 are 66% more likely to die before their 70th birthday when compared to men with a BMI below 30. 

What causes earlier death? 

Obesity itself does not cause early death, but rather the risks that come with being obese. There are many health issues which are much more likely to occur in people carrying extra weight, and in turn, this creates a statistic whereby people in the higher BMI categories die sooner than those in the healthy range of the body mass index. 

• Heart problems

Heart disease is common in older people who are obese, since internal fat gets in the way of the heart operating properly. Fatty substances have been allowed to build up inside and around the arteries, which leads to them becoming clogged up and causing chest pains, heart attacks and possibly death. 

• High blood pressure

While high blood pressure is a very common thing which we seem to hear about often, it can cause severe health problems if is in not under control. High blood pressure can lead to strokes, which can cause a person to die immediately or within weeks of the stroke occurring. High blood pressure can also damage and burst blood vessels, causes bleeds and leaks within the body. 

• Breathing problems

Obesity can create sleep apnea and other breathing issues such as asthma, which can become more severe if left untreated or as a person gets older. 

As you can see, obesity itself may not be the cause of premature death, but the health risks which are prevalent in those with a BMI over 30 can make a long life difficult to achieve. 

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Could Drinking Coffee Make You Live Longer?

Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world. In North America, somewhere in the vicinity of 90% of people start their day with a cup of coffee. All over the world, people drink coffee. Almost everyone knows that coffee is good for giving you a burst of energy. But, what many people do not know is that coffee has enormous health benefits. That’s right, the drink that you have every morning to give you the energy to get to work and to get through the day, is also able to make you live longer. There are several reasons why coffee is able to help you live longer.  

Coffee is full of antioxidants 

Coffee is a huge source of antioxidants. In fact, in some cases, coffee ends up being one of the best sources out there. For a lot of people, coffee ends up being one of the main methods through which they get antioxidants. Antioxidants are things in your body that protect your body from harmful chemicals called “free radicals.” Antioxidants are extremely good for you and have a variety of health benefits. They are associated with lower blood cholesterol levels, improved blood circulation, better resistance to viruses, and a variety of other health benefits. 

Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease

Study after study has shown that increased coffee consumption leads to a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease. This is especially important for older people. People over the age of 40 are most at risk of death due to cardiovascular disease so the fact that the consumption of coffee decreases the risk of dying due to cardiovascular disease, means that people in that age range could potentially live longer by consuming more coffee. Coffee has also been shown to be effective in preventing things like diabetes and other kidney issues. 

Increased weight loss

Coffee is also good for helping to reduce weight. We all know that being overweight is bad for your health. Being overweight can lead to blood pressure issues, cholesterol issues, and a bunch of other health issues, all of which can result in years being taken off someone’s life. Well, coffee, specifically the caffeine in the coffee, is what is called a “thermogenic.” Thermogenics are food items that increase your body’s natural metabolic rate. When your body’s natural metabolic rate is increased, your body burns a lot more fat than it normally would.

Coffee Making Machines

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Can Drinking Red Wine Make You Live Longer?

People often like to joke about red wine being good for them as an excuse to drink large amounts of it. Many of you have no doubt heard someone joke about drinking lots of red wine because it is “good for them.” While consuming copious amounts of red wine is not good for you (when is consuming large amounts of something ever really good for you?), the joke is based on fact. Small amounts of red wine, consumed daily can actually help you live longer and there are numerous health benefits associated with regular consumption of red wine.

Red wine is good for your heart

Probably the most well-known benefit of red wine is that it can help keep your heart healthy. Red wine is full of things called flavonoids and saponins, which are chemicals that do two things. First off, they promote what is called HDL cholesterol. HDL cholesterol, which is sometimes called “good cholesterol,” is good for you body and does not clog your arteries. Likewise, red wine also helps limit the damage caused by LDL cholesterol, which is the bad cholesterol that most people think of when they hear the word “cholesterol.” Red wine also helps protect your body from the negative effects of saturated fat. Saturated fat can be harmful to your cardiovascular system, so helping to keep saturated fat under control is a very useful benefit provided by red wine. 

Red wine is full of antioxidants 

Red wine, since it is made from a fruit that is rich in antioxidants, is also very rich in antioxidants. In fact, red wine is one of the best sources of antioxidants out there. It contains what is called resveratrol, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps keep your cardiovascular system healthy. Given how deadly cardiovascular diseases can be, the fact that red wine does so much to protect your heart from dangerous things like cholesterol and fat means that it could potentially add years onto a person’s lifespan. 

Red wine can help prevent cancer

Some studies have found that red wine, when consumed in moderation, can help prevent cancer. It may not be enough to prevent someone who smokes 2 packs a day from getting cancer, but given how deadly cancer can be, any extra bit of protection helps. Red wine’s ability to help prevent cancer is due to the fact that red wine contains several powerful antioxidants. More specifically, it contains the antioxidant, Quercetin, which can help prevent cancer. 

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9 Regular Screening Tests You Should Have If You Want To Live A Long Healthy Life

Knowing what is going on inside your body is key if you want to live a long and healthy life. This is done by having regular screening tests performed as requested by your doctor. While the ultimate decision whether to have them or not is yours, it is best to go with your doctor’s recommendation.

Age-Specific Tests

Some tests are age-specific meaning once you reach a certain age, the screenings are no longer required. Four falling in this category are colonoscopy for both genders, mammogram and pap smear for women, and the PSA test for men.

Colonoscopy - Studies have found that in people over the age of 75, the benefit of getting a colonoscopy may not outweigh the risk. Of course, if past colonoscopys have indicated some concern, your doctor may want you to continue getting them at the prescribed interval.

Mammograms - Most experts now agree that mammograms for women over the age of 75 are of little value, if one had “clean” tests before that age. And the same with pap smears, but at a different age; for most women having three negative tests in the previous 10 years before age 65, the test most likely no longer required.      

PSA - For men, no medical group recommends having a PSA test if over the age of 75, provided past tests are negative and there aren’t risk factors present to warrant getting them done once past this age.

Later Age-Specific Tests

Bone Density - While some tests end at a certain age, others start. For example, women should get a bone density scan starting at age 65, unless risk factors indicate tests should be done at an earlier age. Men should get tested starting at age 70. Women need to start getting tested five years younger than men because of a drop in estrogen once fully post-menopausal, which can increase the rate of bone density loss. Starting a prevention plan when first detected can slow down the rate of loss.

AAA - Another test that men age 65 to 70 should get, especially if they have smoked during their life is a AAA (Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm) test. It is a one-time ultrasound test to screen for aneurysm of the aorta between the heart and abdomen. If an aneurysm exists and ruptures, the result is usually fatal, so it is a test work getting. At the same time, a test of the carotid artery may be done also for the same reason. 

Know Your Numbers

At a minimum, three critical blood tests worth routinely getting are pressure, sugar and cholesterol. 

Blood pressure – This test measures the force of blood against the arteries. Ideally, the readings should be 130/80 systolic/diastolic, respectively. 

Blood sugar – This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. An A1c reading less than 6% could indicate prediabetes while a reading less than 7% could indicate diabetes. 

Cholesterol – This is a waxy substance created in the liver, but if the good HDL to bad LDL ratio is too low, it can indicate an increased risk of artery blockage and a resulting heart attack or stroke.

BMI - One other number worth knowing is body mass index or BMI. It is a ratio of height-to-weight and is one indicator if you weigh too much for your height. A BMI of 18.6 to 24.9 indicates normal, while 25 and over is too high and indicates obesity.  

Sometimes a person doesn’t know something is going on in their body that could result in a shortened life span or at least a reduction in the quality of life. Getting these regular screenings at the appropriate times can prevent something catastrophic from happening. 

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5 Factors That Help People Live Longer Healthier Lives

We all want to make changes to our lives to help us become healthier, happier and live longer, but for some of us, this seems impossible. It sometimes seems like we cannot alter our lives in a positive way, but we fail to realize just how many things you can do without putting in more effort than needed. Here are five ways you can live a longer and healthier life. 

1. Eat a healthier diet

This is usually the number one factor that will help you to feel healthier and live longer. You should avoid eating sugary and fatty foods, although it's okay to enjoy treats every once in a while. If you're trying to lose weight, a better diet is the key to shedding pounds, which will lead to you feeling healthier and happier. 

2. Exercise

You don't have to hit the gym every day in order to live longer and be healthier. You can mix up your exercise regime in order to make it more interesting and help you to stick to it longer. You can play sports such as tennis or soccer, go swimming with friends and family or even go to a local bar and play ping-pong for an hour or two. Gardening, tidying the house and going for a jog in the evening are all great way to increase your fitness levels, decrease the risk of heart diseases and high blood pressure and live a better life. 

3. Take time to relax

Too much stress in our day-to-day lives can cause us to live shorter lives than expected, so make sure you put your worries aside and take some time to relax at the end of the day or at the weekend. 

4. Drink plenty of water

Juice, coffee, tea and fizzy drinks can all be replaced with water. Water is one of the best things you can drink, since it helps to flush out toxins and unwanted substances from your body, while also helping you stay hydrated, encourages your skin to maintain its elasticity and promoting fat loss too. 

5. Keep your mind active

It's not just about being physically active – you can stay healthier and live longer by giving your brain a workout too. This is particularly important if you aren't studying or working – you can take part in brain-training exercises or do puzzles such as Sudoku or crosswords which will help your brain to stay active. 

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5 Eating Habits To Help You Live Longer

When it comes to eating healthy, many of us are tempted to stray and go for the more tasty and enticing junk food instead. However, eating healthier can help you to live longer, and after all, what good is sugary food if you're not around to enjoy it? Here are five eating habits that you can change in order to prolong your life. 

1. Eat plant-based foods

Following a Paleo-style diet, or caveman diet, is one of the best things to help make your life longer. The Paleo diet is based on the idea that thousands of years ago, cavemen wouldn't have ate anything that didn't come from the earth. This would include vegetables and fruits, meats and grains, but little else. Increase your intake of broccoli and other greens – you can do this by adding a few to your meals each day. 

2. Eat less meat

You don't necessarily need to cut out meat altogether from your diet, but you should cut down on the amount of meat you consume in order to stay healthier. If you do eat meat, try to avoid bacon and red meats such as steaks, and also stay away from meats which contain a lot of fat. Choose lean meats such as chicken, turkey and ham. Red meats are full of iron, which our bodies need, but at the same time, too much of it can increase the risk of heart disease and heart attacks, which are one of the leading causes of death in middle-aged and older people. 

3. Snack on nuts

Statistically, those who eat a handful of nuts each day are likely to live longer. Nuts are full of protein, making them a great snack for people who are allergic to various dairy products. They are also known to increase energy levels and lower cholesterol. High cholesterol is one of the reasons people suffer health problems in later life, so working to bring this down can help you to live longer. 

4. Eat less dairy products

There is a continuous debate in the health world about whether or not we actually need cow's milk, so while young children should avoid too much soya in their diet, you can find healthier alternatives to cow's milk in the supermarket. Rice milk, coconut milk and almond milk are all suitable options if you want to cut down on the amount of cow's milk you're consuming each day. Try feta cheese instead of cheddar, and check out the other non-dairy products in your local stores. 

5. Swap white carbs for whole grains

Instead of buying white breads, white rice and white pasta, opt for the brown alternatives instead. These are much healthier for you, and particularly with rice and pasta, you won't even notice a difference in taste. 

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