Chronic Lung Disease
Chronic lung diseases such as COPD and asthma affect the breathing, which slowly puts pressure on the heart, the brain, and the immune system. If your breathing isn’t affected in your 60s and beyond, your lungs are doing an awesome job. As explained by the World Health Organization, healthy lungs mean better oxygen supply to every part of the body. This leads to more physical stamina and better chances at recovering from different illnesses. One of the best things you can do for your lungs is to avoid smoking and exposure to air pollution.
What all this means for your body
If you have made it past the age of 60, 70, or 80 without any of these conditions, your body is telling you something incredible; that it’s balanced, strong, and capable of self-healing.
Your internal body parts, including your heart, lungs, brain, digestive system, as well as your immune system, are actually communicating with each other working together in harmony. And that is the main reason why many people who have reached certain age without ever experiencing any of these conditions are very likely to live past the age of 100.
However, this isn’t just down to luck. According to Harvard Health, it’s a result of thousands of small choices we do on a daily basis.
Science backed-up tips for longevity
1. Stay physically active
When you exercise and move your body regularly, you help strengthen your muscles, lungs, heart and bones, thus reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even depression and anxiety. Harvard Health recommends that adults perform at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. Daily physical activity, even a brisk 10-minute walk, can reduce the risk of an early death by 15%, according to The Times.
2. Eat Whole, Nutrient-Rich Foods
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins has long been associated with reduced chronic disease and longevity, as per the Times of India. The Mediterranean and plant-based diets are believed to be the most protective against chronic disease due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing ultra-processed foods and sugar in the diet helps stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy gut.
3. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management
Sleep is the time during which the body handles biological repairs. According to research, during the phase of deep sleep, the body gets rid of the toxins, rebalances the hormones, and helps tissue heal. On the other hand, chronic stress speeds up the process of aging.
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