How to live a healthy longer life.

According to scientists, our genetic
make-up is thought to contribute
just 25 per cent to how long we live.
The real key involves simple
measures such as regular exercise,
indulging in pleasant natter with
friends and eating healthy food, a
newspaper has reported.
Age UK, a charity, states that it's
never too early or too late to adopt
a healthy lifestyle so as to improve
one's later life. Some of these
changes include having enough
good-quality sleep, engaging
socially with other people and
staying positive about ageing. These
simple steps can make a world of a
difference to how people age.
It also suggests that people should
engage in regular exercise, have a
healthy and moderate diet, undergo
regular medical check-ups and not
smoke. One should also take care to
protect one's eyes from sun-
damage.
People are also encouraged, for both
their physical and mental well-
being, to keep an eye on their
pensions and to seek expert financial
advice when necessary.
Ian Philp, the professor who helped
produce the information said, "We
really can influence how we age. For
example, it may seem obvious but
regular health check-ups are really
very important, especially when one
starts getting older.
"Getting an early diagnosis of an
illness, taking advantage of
screening programmes and being
up-to- date with vaccines etc., are
all crucial. Other tips I must mention
are engaging socially with others
and staying positive about ageing."
This study is especially relevant to
India as a very large percentage of
our population comprises youth, and
these tips will ensure their health as
they age.