By Neuroscience News
Can eight healthy habits add decades to your life? A study of 700,000 U.S. veterans reveals the potential for significantly extended lifespan.
The habits? Be physically active, free from opioid addiction, non-smoking, stress-managing, enjoy a good diet, avoid binge drinking, maintain good sleep hygiene, and nurture positive social relationships.
Incredible results: men adopting these habits by age 40 can expect 24 additional years, women gain 21 years.
"One, two, three, or all eight...every lifestyle change is beneficial,” says researcher Xuan-Mai T. Nguyen.
These findings were drawn from data of the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program, including adults aged 40-99.
Low physical activity, opioid use, and smoking had the greatest impact on lifespan, contributing to 30-45% higher risk of death.
These habits help counter chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease that lead to premature death, hinting at the vital role of lifestyle choices.
Regardless of age, adopting these habits extends life expectancy. “It is never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle,” urges Nguyen.