It’s long been a given that your biological age can differ from your chronological age, depending on your level of health and fitness. The thing is many people may believe they’re more fit than they actually are, and to address that issue, Yale scientists have come up with a blood test they say is an accurate predictor of how long you have left to live. According to The Guardian, the test draws on nine biomarkers found in your blood to calculate your biological age. It also gives doctors an idea of what health markers to concentrate on to help you lengthen your life.
Whether you want to know how long you have left or not, you don’t need a blood test or your doctor to tell you that if you want a longer life you need to get fitter and healthier. Of course, nothing can promise you a never-ending fountain of youth or immortality, but if you want to live to 100, there are several ways to positively affect that outcome. And, yes, exercise and diet are two huge components. But other factors play a part too, for example, your very outlook on life can impact the way you age.
Studies on centenarians in Sardinia, which boasts the highest rate of centenarians in the world have shown that positive attitudes, optimism, a zest for life and a good sense of humor figure in hugely in how long these people live. Coupled with a strong social support network — the No. 1 factor influencing longevity and survival — these attributes even surpass the influence of weight and smoking status. Specifically, researchers found the following themes dominate the lives of these centenarians:
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Keeping a positive attitude and a sense of humor
- Strong social network of family and friends
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Exercising moderately but regularly (walking, biking, gardening and swimming, for example)
- Clean living (such as not smoking or drinking excessively)
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Living independently
- Faith/spirituality/having a sense of purpose in life
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Staying mentally active and always learning something new
- An active lifestyle with (often hard) physical work and/or lots of walking
If all this seems a bit daunting, remember you can always tackle one thing at a time, one step at a time — and I mean that quite literally. If you’re a sedentary person who sits at a desk all day, or if you just don’t move much, the best first step toward better health and ultimately lengthening your life begins with a step. In other words, stand up, sit less and move more. Coupled with a ketogenic diet, you will be well on the road to health, fitness and a long life.