9 Things to Stop Doing If You Want to Live a Long Life
For many, life goals include living long enough to do all of the things on your bucket list. As a result, a lot of advice is out there telling you what to do to improve your life and increase longevity.
Here’s a list of things to stop doing to help you live longer.
1. Stop Eating Processed Foods
This is especially true in the United States. There are foods here that are banned in other countries. Processed foods contain chemicals and preservatives that have been shown to cause cancer and other chronic medical problems.
Our diets have included these kinds of foods since we were kids, so you can imagine the impact on our bodies decades later when we’re finally financially secure enough to live life. Instead of enjoyment, there are frequent trips to the hospital and a growing list of prescription medications to take.
Instead: focus on clean eating, foods that contain whole grains, are organically grown, and are high in fiber. Cooking at home with fresh ingredients is a great way to adjust; meal prep companies are also available if you’re busy or on a budget.
2. Reduce Alcohol Consumption
A study came out several years ago that stated 1-2 glasses of red wine per day is heart-healthy. More recent evidence proves this relationship to be weak.
Heavy alcohol consumption is of course not good, and depending on who you are and your medical history, even moderate consumption can have negative effects. It’s best to avoid it if possible, or drink sparingly on social occasions.
3. Stop Overeating or Eating Too Late
We are always in a rush and therefore eat too fast and don’t realize how full we are, or we eat too late at night and go to bed right after.
Slow down. Chew your food and listen to your body. Stop eating when you’re full. Your last meal of the day should be 3 hours before bed. This allows time for digestion before you sleep – which then means when you’re sleeping, your body can focus on healing, cell turnover, and rejuvenation.
4. Stop Smoking
Do yourself a favor; stop smoking.
5. Stop Being Lazy
To start, consider journaling and writing down all the positive things you notice in your life. Keep that list and continue to add to it. Every so often, read it from top to bottom. You’ll come to realize you are much richer than you think, and that alone can help decrease stress and help you relax.
7. Stop Cheating Yourself Of Sleep
You need enough sleep (8 hours) and consistent sleep (every day). Sleep is essential for rest and rejuvenation, to decrease stress and depression, and to ward off chronic medical conditions. Yep, lack of sleep can cause medical problems, and you can easily prevent it – by sleeping!
Develop good nighttime routines to help you unwind before bed, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep through the night. Consider journaling, meditation, reading before bed, hot herbal tea, light yoga stretching, etc.
8. Stop Stressing
Chronic stress is the likely culprit for all of our problems. Stress due to life events, work, lack of sleep, or not eating well, all contribute to the internal harm our bodies can experience.
Reducing chronic stress decreases cortisol levels and ultimately improves your body’s ability to heal, function and stay young.
9. Stop Isolating Yourself
Staying social can be a good longevity booster, helping you manage stress and strengthening your immune system. Good relationships keep you strong, while bad relationships can drain you and put you at risk of depression and even heart attacks.
Staying connected can be tough if you are feeling down, are dealing with loss, are in a new area far from family and friends, and are struggling to meet new people. Consider pushing your comfort zone to make friends and connect with others. This may include volunteering, contacting your professional network, and joining gyms, book clubs, or interest groups.
Final Thoughts
Taking control of your health requires changing habits, removing negativity, and focusing on the positive. Take these steps toward a healthier you!
