From cutting down on calories, to dipping yourself in an icy bath, these quick health hacks will help you live a longer and happier life.
We’d all like to live longer, healthier lives. The good news is that while aging is inevitable, we can still slow it down. Here are a few simple things you can do now to delay the march of time.
What is a hack?
By hack people generally mean short cuts or work arounds which can help achieve a desired end. When it comes to health and aging there are all sorts of people recommending all sorts of hacks which they say can slow down the aging process.
Many are not well thought through while others can be expensive and complicated. However, there are a few simple things you can do at home which will help.
Calorie restriction
It stands to reason, if you consume fewer calories, you’ll be more likely to lose weight. It reduces your chances of suffering from various health conditions such as obesity, heart disease or even cancer.
However, you don’t have to go on a crash diet. Small simple things can help you reduce your calorie intake without starving yourself.
One of the easiest is to only eat until you are 80% full. When we’re hungry it’s tempting to gorge yourself until you’re bursting, but if you only eat enough to stop those hunger pangs, you’ll take in much fewer calories
Embrace the cold
Athletes have long used the cold to aid muscle repair and keep themselves in good condition. A cold shower, or dip in cold water can also help to improve your metabolism and get your body working more efficiently on a cellular level.
It can activate AMPK which is like your metabolism’s master switch and regulates the way in which your body uses energy. It uses stored fat for energy, reduces blood sugar contents, increases the number of mitochondria (cells which produce energy and reduces inflammation.
It has also been linked to improved mood and reducing post exercise soreness in your muscles.
Use a sauna
This might be a little more comfortable. Spending time in a sauna can be relaxing, especially if you’ve been under a considerable amount of stress. According to one study, four to seven sauna sessions per week reduced mortality rates and even one session a week can reduce all factor mortality. The heat from the sauna instantly relaxes you, improves circulation and eases pain in your muscles.
Manage your stress
When life throws up problems, try to approach them with positive ‘eustress’ rather than negative ‘distress’.
The positive version sees us approach each challenge as an opportunity to step up to the plate. We back ourselves to deal with it, feel energised and positive about our chances.
Distress meanwhile makes you feel anxious, worried and fearful. It can last for a short time or it can linger, eating away at you. It can make you retreat into your shell and if it’s ongoing can lead to physical and mental health issues.
It also releases cortisol into your bloodstream and increases your heart rate to help you overcome the obstacle. High cortisol levels for a prolonged period of time can lead to all sorts of disorders such as hormone imbalance, inflammations weight gain and other disorders.
Forcing yourself to approach things with the right type of stress can take training and self-discipline, but it could be crucial to fighting one of the biggest drags on longevity the modern world can offer.
Stay fit and healthy
These are just a few basic hacks you can start tomorrow. In general, though, think of your body like a car. The better you look after it, the longer it will last. The old saying is true: look after your body and it will look after you.
Image credits: j Fabio Comparelli / Unsplash and Bragapictures / Shutterstock, StockSnap / Pixabay
The information included in this article is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this webpage is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
