6 Signs You’ll Have A Long Life

Disclaimer: The information in this video is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this video is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional.

Have you ever stopped to think about how long you’ll be around on this planet? 75 years? 90? 100 years? 

Medical and health technological improvements have led to humans living longer lives. With internet accessibility, we have access to a lot of resources that can educate us to improve our quality of life. And despite miracles and tragedies happening every day at random, it doesn’t hurt to take care of what’s under your control.

Here are some signs you’ll live a long life.

Your mother had you at 25-35 years old

Did you know your mother’s age influences your health?

According to research done by Fenelon, mothers aged 25-35 can conceive healthier children than other-aged mothers. The reason? Older mothers have a shared frailty with their child since their generally more prone to developing health risks as they grow older. For younger mothers, they’re better off waiting a couple more years for them to fully develop themselves before giving birth to their first child. 

You are happy and optimistic

Are you happy every day, with a mind that feels like it could take on the world?

A 2012 study of 243 volunteers in the journal Aging says that people who are dynamic and flexible tend to live happier, longer lives. On the other hand, being stressed and worried a lot can decrease the longevity of your life. If you’re constantly stressed, try to get to the root of it and find ways and habits to improve your situation. And if you need guidance, consulting a mental health professional can bring your life back on track and introduce optimism back to your life – making you happier and much healthier for years to come.

You follow a Mediterranean diet

Do you like eating fresh seafood? We hope you’re not allergic to it!

According to a Harvard study published in BMJ, a Mediterranean diet can be good for your health and brain. This diet is rich in olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish. It also avoids the intake of red meats and processed meats. If you follow the diet above, nutrients found in the foods can protect your telomeres, which are the cells that protect your DNA strands. Shorter telomeres contribute to a higher chance of developing chronic diseases and a decreased life expectancy, so eating red meats is something you definitely want to prevent if you want to live longer.

You nap

Are you sleepy? Go on, take a nap. 

If you like sleeping, and find yourself in afternoon siestas now and then, you’re actually doing good for yourself! By taking afternoon naps, you decrease your risk of cardiovascular issues by 48%. Studies show that hitting 1 to 2 naps in a week is the sweet spot, but that sleeping 7 days a week shows little improved effects. As long as you’re napping to help you get through the day, rather than because there’s an underlying sleep condition, then you can rest easy and doze off every once in a while during the afternoons.

You can run at a good pace 

Are you a runner? Or do you loathe the idea of exercise in all forms?

If you love the feeling of the wind in your face, good news. You are less likely to develop diseases like Alzheimer’s, certain cancers, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes in your 70s if you consistently run in your mid-ages! For males, you ideally should be able to run eight-minute miles; and for women, ten-minute miles is the ideal range. 

You walk occasionally

Do you sometimes go on daily strolls around the park? 

If running is out of the picture for you, don’t worry. Walking for 30 minutes a day can also be extremely beneficial for your health. It lowers your blood pressure and also reduces your risk of developing chronic diseases. Whether you do it with a friend, with a pet, or on a hike in nature – walking can make your heart happier and your brain sharper, making you live a longer life in the process. It releases feel-good enzymes too, which is a win-win for the present you as well!

Closing Thoughts

Do you show any of the above signs? Great, you’re well on your way to living the good life!

And if you don’t, it’s okay. You’re always in control to start living a better life as soon as tomorrow. The world may be tough right now, but know that there are always people, even Internet strangers, on the sidelines cheering you on. 

That’s all for now, Psych2Goers!

References

Myrskylä M, Fenelon A. Maternal age and offspring adult health: evidence from the health and retirement study. Demography. 2012;49(4):1231-1257. doi:10.1007/s13524-012-0132-x

Mediterranean diet linked to longevity, say Harvard researchers.  January, 2015.  Retrieved at https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/mediterranean-diet-linked-to-longevity-say-harvard-researchers

Ana Sandoiu. August 7, 2020. Naps and cardiovascular health: The pros and cons. Retrieved at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/naps-and-cardiovascular-health-the-pros-and-cons

Rabbitt, M. Jul 15, 2020. 10 Biggest Benefits of Walking to Improve Your Health, According to Experts. Retrieved at https://www.prevention.com/fitness/a20485587/benefits-from-walking-every-day/

Jung, A. & Jones, M. Mar. 13, 2019. 15 Science-Backed Signs You Could Live to Be 100. Retrieved at https://www.thehealthy.com/aging/healthy-aging/healthy-aging-signs/