As Americans struggle with a significant gap between their health span and life span, doctors are sharing seven simple strategies to improve overall health. While life span refers to living longer, health span focuses on the quality of life during those years.
According to data from the World Health Organization, Americans have one of the largest gaps in health span, with 12.4 years separating their health span from life expectancy. To close this gap, experts recommend:
1. Focusing on a healthy diet: Dr. Kathryn J. Lindley suggests prioritizing fruits and vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy, and whole grains.
2. Tweaking recipes to make them healthier: Dr. Lindley recommends simple changes like substituting ground turkey for ground beef or increasing the amount of beans in a recipe.
3. Following basic health advice: Dr. Alfred Tallia advises against smoking, excessive drinking, overeating, and processed foods, while promoting healthy non-processed foods and regular exercise.
4. Incorporating daily physical activity: Dr. Bert Mandelbaum exercises every morning, trying to mix up his workouts to target different muscles and reduce the risk of injury.
5. Prioritizing quality sleep: Research shows that good sleep supports immune function and brain health; Dr. Ercoli aims for 8 hours of sleep each night.
6. Focusing on relationships: Social connection is crucial for healthy longevity, according to Dr. Scott Kaiser, who prioritizes nurturing relationships with friends and loved ones.
7. Making time for self-care: By incorporating these strategies into daily life, individuals can improve their overall health span and make the most of their years.
By implementing these simple strategies, Americans can close the gap between their health span and life expectancy and live healthier, happier lives.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/doctors-reveal-7-strategies-themselves-091300958.html