Although geneticists say that human life expectancy can reach over 120 years, the current life expectancy of many people is far from this number. Looking at the average life expectancy, Japanese people live to 79 years old, while Australians, Greeks, Canadians, and Swedes live to 78 years old. Germans and Americans have a life expectancy of 76 years, while Nigerians and Somalis only live to 47 years old.
Life expectancy is influenced by various factors, and some doctors, psychologists, and nutritionists have come up with the following ten guidelines for extending life:
(1) Don't overeat: This can reduce the burden on cells, maintain their vitality, and allow for rapid cell renewal. It also helps strengthen the body's immune system. It's important to eat in moderation and maintain a balanced diet.
(2) Consider age when planning meals: Different age groups have different nutritional requirements. For example, a 30-year-old woman who regularly eats liver and nuts will have fewer wrinkles than her peers. Carotene is beneficial for people over 40. After reaching middle age, it's important to pay attention to calcium and magnesium intake. Calcium can prevent osteoporosis, while magnesium can support heart health. Men over 40 especially need selenium, which can help relieve tension. Cheese and animal kidneys are rich sources of selenium. As one enters old age, it is advisable to eat more fish to protect the cardiovascular system.
(3) Find a suitable job: Research shows that working can make people look younger. Those who don't work tend to look about five years older than their peers. Engaging in jobs related to music, philosophy, and painting can make people "radiant."
(4) Find a good life partner: Love and tenderness are anti-aging remedies. Studies have shown that immersing oneself in love at least twice a week can make one appear more than ten years younger. When in love, the body secretes a substance known as the "happiness hormone," which strengthens the immune system.
(5) Have your own perspective on everything: Compared to those who passively go with the flow, people with their own opinions who can persist tend to live consciously and have less depression and melancholy.
(6) Exercise: Even if it's just 8 minutes a day, exercise can prolong life. During exercise, growth hormones are released. As people reach middle age, the secretion of these hormones usually decreases significantly. Therefore, it is especially important to pay attention to exercise.
(7) Keep the bedroom slightly cool: Research has shown that sleeping in a room with a temperature of 17°C to 18°C can prolong youthfulness. The body's metabolism and the appearance of signs of aging depend on the surrounding temperature.
(8) Occasionally indulge yourself: Don't always restrict yourself to rules and regulations. Occasionally, you can break free. For example, treat yourself to a delicious food that you don't normally eat.
(9) Don't suppress your anger forever: Suppressing negative emotions is harmful. Not expressing inner frustrations can make one susceptible to illness, even cancer. According to surveys, 64% of cancer patients frequently suppress their anger. Therefore, it is necessary to share your sorrows with others or even argue with those who hold opposing views.
(10) Exercise your brain: Regularly solve riddles and play brain-teasing games with friends to force the brain to work. This can delay the decline in cognitive abilities.
In conclusion, using the brain diligently is the best way to exercise it. Having a functioning brain is beneficial for both physical and mental health.