Longevity refers to the length of time of a human lifespan. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that the average lifespan for a human is around 77.9 years. Longevity is based on several factors including your genetics, where you live, how much medical care you receive and how well you take care of your body. Ultimately, there is no guarantee how long you will live or how you will be affected by certain diseases or medical conditions along the path of life.
Genetics
The DNA that you are born with plays a large part in how your body will respond to disease, if you are predisposed to disease and how well you will age. Your hair turning gray at 25 as opposed to 55 along with having more wrinkles than your sister are all components of your genetic make-up. Some people are genetically predisposed to living a long life. If your parents lived into their 90s there is a good chance you will also. The human body contains two sets of 23 chromosomes. Each set comes from each parent. These groups of cells and chromosomes play a part in what diseases you may develop and also determines individual aging patterns.
Exercise
Exercise has been linked to longevity in that it allows you to improve cardiovascular health and reduce body fat which in turn can help fight certain diseases and cancers, allowing you to live a longer life. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends getting 30 minutes of exercise daily up to five days per week. Exercise can include aerobic activity that increases heart rate by brisk walking, running, swimming, hiking and bike riding. Daily exercise also helps with improving flexibility and muscle movement. This can be beneficial especially if you have arthritis or muscle stiffness.
Disease
There is no guarantee in life that you are immune to every life-threatening disease. Early detection and prevention still does not guarantee you won't get sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention acknowledge some of the most common causes of death in humans. The No. 1 contributor is heart disease or heart attack, followed by cancer, stroke, respiratory disease, accidents, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. While preventing and treating some of these conditions with diet, exercise, surgery and medication can help prolong life, any of them could take your life based on exposure to toxins, genetics and your overall health.
Diet
Eating a heart healthy diet based off of the main food groups can help keep you healthy, prevent disease and allow you to live a longer life. A balanced diet consisting of whole grains, meat and beans, milk, fruit, vegetables and unsaturated fats can be heart healthy and prevent many diseases and cancers. While getting between 1,800 and 2,000 calories is recommended for a healthy diet, Science Daily has reported that calorie restriction may lead to longevity. Studies continue linking the DAF-16 protein to diet restriction and longevity. You should always seek the advice from your doctor before embarking on any diet program.
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