Looking for a way to stave off a visit from the Grim Reaper? Follow four simple rules and you could earn yourself an extra 14 years as a mere mortal.
In a study of 20,000 British adults, researchers from the University of Cambridge and the Medical Research Council determined that people who exercise regularly, eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, drink moderately and quit smoking live 14 years longer than their less virtuous counterparts.
After adjusting for age and other covariates that may impact longevity, the researchers determined that smoking was associated with the greatest mortality risk reduction, with those who ditched the cigarettes logging an 80% overall improvement in health. Regular fruit and vegetable consumption, meanwhile, had the second largest effect on health, followed by moderate drinking and regular exercise, which procured similar benefits.
Commenting on the results, the researchers note that they “may provide further support for the idea that even small differences in lifestyle may make a big difference to health in the population and encourage behavior change.”
Doing all four? Then it’s probably about time you reserve the best rocker at the retirement home!
via ABC News
Helico Flickr Photo (CC)
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