4 Healthy Ways to Extend Your Life

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Latest results from a Public Library of Science study out of England lists 4 small changes in lifestyle that could have a major impact on the health of populations worldwide. Nothing earth shattering here at a glance, but a commitment to changing or adapting the following behaviors suggests major health benefits when practiced in tandem, especially for middle-aged and older individuals. Most previous studies have evaluated the difference made by individual changes but scientists at Cambridge University are the first to look at the effects of a combination of these factors.

1. Don't Smoke

2. Get Exercise

3. Drink Alcohol in Moderation

4. Eat 5 Servings of Fruit and Vegetables a Day

Based on study results, on average, people who quit smoking, exercise, drink alcohol moderately, and eat five servings of fruit and vegetables a day, live 14 years longer than people who don't adopt any of these behaviors.

The lifestyle change that proved most beneficial was giving up smoking, which according to the study, showed an 80 percent improvement in health when combined with eating the proper amount of fruits and vegetables each day. Moderate drinking (a glass of wine or a half a pint of beer a day for example) and staying active also had a positive impact on longevity.

The results of the study have given proof that all of these behaviors contribute to a longer and healthier life and now actually quantifies their combined impact.

For more details about the study, check out the Public Library of Science's press release.

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