Now while I always advocate that all ‘research’ must be viewed with a healthy amount of skepticism, especially when it sounds too strange to be true (smell farts to prevent cancer), there are some studies that are not only intriguing but also logical sounding. Consider what the researchers tell us about living a long and healthy life; much of it is common sense; a case of science proving the obvious for us.
Marry an intelligent woman
Kid you not, scientists have found that marrying a brainy woman will protect men from dementia. And it makes sense, having a mentally stimulating partner improves one’s chances of postponing dementia. So what’s in it for women; why should they marry less intelligent men? That one’s not clear.
Exercise
You’ve been told about this often enough but needs repetition. One of the best ways to keep healthy and fit is to exercise regularly. Not only is it a case of you lose what you don’t use, physical exercise also helps keep the brain healthy.
Exercise your brain
Numerous studies have categorically shown that doing puzzles, playing mentally challenging games or activities such as learning an instrument or a new language have very beneficial impacts on the brain helping to keep it more agile and keeping memory loss at bay.
Have loving relationships
Lonely people die earlier; this also has been confirmed by various studies. People in nurturing relationships and those surrounded by loving family live longer, healthier lives.
Eat healthy
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruit, veggies, whole grains and healthy animal protein keeps the body and mind healthier. Rule of thumb here should be to eat non processed foods that are as close to their natural state as possible to reduce inflammation and boost immunity. And whatever you eat, don’t overeat.
Give up smoking
There is never any reason to smoke and so many, many reasons to give it up. You improve the health of your heart and other organs, lower your cancer risk, prevent oxidative damage and even prevent premature aging and wrinkles. Do it for vanity if not your health!
Get some action between the sheets
Not only is it good exercise, regular sex helps lower blood pressure, boosts immunity, enhances intimacy and improves sleep quality.
Reduce TV viewing
Watch less TV and do less of the stuff that needs you to sit. Being a couch potato is terrible for you for so many reasons: premature death and heart disease are just two of those.
Take care of your teeth
Yes teeth. Look after them not just for the 1000 watt smile but also to prevent heart disease and some cancers.
Be optimistic
Pessimists are more prone to viral illnesses. Stats show that on an average, optimists live 12 years longer than pessimists! Even if you don’t live longer you’ll be happier… reason enough, don’t you think?