Can you lengthen your life? You can with these 7 (not-so) secrets

Live Longer and Age Gracefully with These 7 Secrets

What do Rekha, Anil Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, and Hema Malini have in common?

Well, yes. They’re all Bollywood stars, but also, they’ve aged extremely gracefully.

And this is not the case with all-stars and celebrities.

So, they must be doing something right. 

If you’ve ever wondered what their secrets are, then you’re in luck, because in this blog, we’re going to explore how to live longer, healthier, and more fulfilled lives.

Challenges to Overall Health and Well-being in India

In India, achieving longevity and aging gracefully is not just about extending the number of years lived, but also about enhancing the quality of those years. 

While the average life expectancy in India is 70.8 years, the healthy life expectancy is significantly lower, indicating that many people spend their later years dealing with health issues. 

Consider these stats:

- Average Life Expectancy: 70.8 years (World Health Statistics 2023).

- Healthy Life Expectancy: 

  - Male: 65 years.

  - Female: 60 years.

This gap between life expectancy and healthy life expectancy suggests that while people are living longer, many of those additional years are spent in poor health.

Health Challenges

1. Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): Despite improvements, the IMR remains a concern, with 35 deaths per 1,000 births (2019-2021 data).

2. Communicable Diseases: Although decreasing, they still pose significant risks, especially in rural areas.

3. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): The rise of NCDs such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers is alarming. These conditions are now the leading causes of death in India.

Common Causes of Death

- Ischemic Heart Disease (Heart Attack)

- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

- Stroke

- Neonatal Conditions

- Trachea, Bronchus, and Lung Cancers 

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes preventive healthcare, and making healthy lifestyle choices.

7 Secrets to Combat Accelerated Aging and Unlock Longevity

1. Eat Less

Research indicates that reducing daily calorie intake by 500 to 750 calories can significantly slow down the aging process. In the Indian context, this could mean cutting down on portion sizes of traditional meals and being mindful of calorie-dense foods like sweets and fried snacks.

2. Get Moving

Exercise is crucial for reducing biological age. Loma Linda University researchers found that three HIIT sessions a week for a month could reduce biological age by over three years. Incorporate traditional Indian exercises like yoga or dance forms like Bharatanatyam to stay active.

3. Manage Stress

Stress accelerates aging, but managing emotions effectively can counteract this. Mindfulness practices, meditation, and pranayama (breathing exercises), deeply rooted in Indian culture, can be highly effective in managing stress.

4. Sleep Smart

Adequate sleep is essential for healthy aging. Aim for 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Traditional bedtime routines, such as drinking herbal teas like chamomile and avoiding screen time, can improve sleep quality.

5. Smoking Kills & You Already Know It!

Smoking significantly accelerates aging. In India, where bidi and cigarette smoking are prevalent, quitting these habits can greatly improve your health and longevity.

6. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is linked to faster aging and higher disease risk. Drink plenty of water and consider traditional hydrating drinks like coconut water and buttermilk (chaas) to keep your body and skin healthy.

7. Supplement Smartly

Research shows that Omega 3, Mg & NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) can help slow down aging. Consult with a healthcare provider to see if this supplement fits your dietary needs and lifestyle.

Connecting the Dots for a Healthier You

Adopting these habits can work wonders for your longevity and overall well-being. They’re interconnected exercising reduces stress, a balanced diet improves sleep, and staying hydrated boosts your energy. It’s about creating a positive feedback loop for your health. Remember, living well is about making smart, sustainable choices. 

Cheers to a healthier, younger you!