Recently, a couple of well-known experts shared their secrets for living longer. Nobel Prize-winning chemist Dr. Venkatraman Ramakrishnan and heart surgeon Dr. Jeremy London believe that three key habits can help extend our lives: eating a nutritious diet, staying active, and getting enough restful sleep.

Dr. Sofiya Milman, who studies the habits of people who live over 100 years, emphasized that while all three habits matter, one might be the most crucial. “Our bodies are designed to live healthy lives into our 100s,” she explained, suggesting that it just takes some adjustments to get there.
So, which of these habits should we focus on first? Although it seems dull, the truth is that it’s best to balance all three. Factors like regular exercise, good nutrition, managing stress, and prioritizing sleep all contribute to overall well-being. However, if you must pick just one to prioritize, Dr. Milman recommends exercise.
Starting around age 30, many people experience a natural decline in muscle mass, known as sarcopenia. This loss of strength can increase the risk of falls, dementia, and early death among older adults. Fortunately, engaging in resistance and strength training can help combat this, and it’s never too late to begin. For instance, some who’ve started lifting weights in their 70s have seen remarkable improvements in their health.
But the key to sticking with an exercise routine is finding what you enjoy. As Dr. Milman noted, “The best exercise is the one you’ll actually do.”
When it comes to factors that contribute to living long, Dr. Milman’s research on centenarians revealed some surprising insights. Many of them don’t necessarily follow the expected patterns for longevity. They might drink the same amount of alcohol as others, have similar exercise habits, or even struggle with weight. It highlights that while lifestyle matters, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule for living to 100.
Yet, longevity isn’t the only goal—maintaining well-being as we age is critical too. Managing chronic health issues, like diabetes and heart disease, is essential for enjoying life without major health concerns.
In sum, living a longer, healthier life may come down to a mix of good nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate rest. Small, consistent changes to our daily habits might lead us closer to that goal of longevity. If you’re curious about longevity research, check out studies from sources like the National Institute on Aging for more insights.
Check out this related article: Indulge Your Cravings Without the Guilt: 5 Proven Strategies from a Lifestyle Coach to Enjoy Junk Food and Stay Fit!
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