Why Weight?

4 Secrets for a Longer Life

By Bob on February 19, 2014 11:59 AM

I've known people who want to live forever. Me? Not so much. I just want to live to a ripe old age and be healthy enough to enjoy it. As a cancer survivor, I can tell you that, at least for me, age isn't the goal. Good health that allows me to enjoy my age - whatever it is - is what it's all about.

There are plenty of diets and exercise routines that claim to have the answers to living a longer life. Here are 4 tips that help me: 

4 Secrets to Living a Longer Life 

Now let's all sing Iguana da Vida...

1. Choose Your Friends Wisely

I love this old line from a Jimmy Cagney gangster film, "You lie down with dogs, you'll get up with fleas," because it's funny and makes a lot of sense. Our friends' habits rub off on us, so it stands to reason that if you hang out with people with healthy lifestyles you'll be encouraged to do the same.

I don't have any Mediterranean friends, but I bet they'd be healthy. 

2. Follow a Mediterranean Diet

This is a whole lot easier than you might think. The Mediterranean's eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil and fish. Sounds pretty good, right? Studies show that the diet significantly lowers the risk of obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

Those two crazy kids...circa 1978 

3. Get Married

Charlotte made me put this one in **kidding**. But, studies do show that married people tend to outlive their single friends. Researchers say the difference is due to the social and economic support marriage provides. Divorced? Not to worry. A current marriage offers the greatest benefit, but people who are divorced or widowed live longer than those who have never been married.

Of course, we still recommend reading this blog at least six hours a day... 

4. Keep Moving

A body in motion tends to stay in motion and a body at rest...blah, blah, blah. The truth is that the evidence is compelling - people who exercise live longer than those who don't. PERIOD. Studies show that regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, some cancers and depression. It may even help you stay mentally sharp in your old age. Experts recommend about 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week. 

Why Weight? is a column on diet, nutrition and making better choices so you can live a longer healthier life. The authors are not doctors and nothing here should be taken as medical advice. Always consult your physician before making any changes in diet, exercise, nutrition or cell phone provider (Let's face it doctors are just really, really smart, they know a lot about a lot of things). Our goal is simple: We want all Baby Boomers to live long enough to get back the money they've paid into Social Security since taking their first summer job. Remember, your children's inheritance isn't going to spend itself. It's up to you.

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