Let’s dive into the fresh insights on aging and what we can do right now to enhance our health and keep our minds sharp!
Reviewed by Nick Blackmer
People are living longer these days, but that doesn’t always mean we’re living well.
This brings us to the healthspan-lifespan gap—the split between the years we live healthy and the total years we exist. Research indicates that this gap is growing.
For instance, a study published in JAMA Network Open in 2024 shows that back in 2019, the global average of unhealthy years pushed almost to 9.6 years—up 13% from 8.5 years in 2000.
Is there a way to change this?
Sohaib Imitaz, MD, MPH, who is Chief Medical Officer at Health, mentions that there’s an increasing interest among companies and healthcare providers in promoting longer and healthier lives.
He suggests, “The medical system has often been about crisis care. We need to pivot towards personalized, proactive, and preventive approaches instead.”
Exciting developments are on the horizon as research strives to uncover the specifics of longevity, like pinpointing when our bodies age the most and what the healthiest centenarians include in their diets. Meanwhile, there are plenty of easy, science-backed strategies to help you boost your health.
Unique tips? Try reducing processed foods and increasing your fiber intake, engaging in high-intensity workouts, ensuring you get enough sleep, and nurturing your relationships.
Wondering how to kick things off? Here’s the scoop on the latest findings regarding longevity—from fitness tests identifying healthy aging markers to what brain games can do for lasting cognitive health, and even some quick nutrition hacks (including a few that won’t cost a thing).
Check out the original article on Health.
