Want to live a longer, healthier life? A top heart surgeon says it's simpler than you think! Dr. Jeremy London, a cardiothoracic surgeon with 25 years of experience mending hearts, is sharing his "secret sauce" for longevity: five daily habits that could add years to your life.
Our hearts work tirelessly, pumping life-giving blood, oxygen, and crucial nutrients to every corner of our bodies. It stands to reason that keeping this vital organ in tip-top shape is paramount for overall well-being and, potentially, a longer lifespan. It's not just about avoiding heart attacks; it's about maximizing your body's potential.
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Dr. London, a board-certified expert in his field (https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/cardiothoracic-surgeon-says-every-minute-without-defibrillation-drops-survival-by-about-10-explains-how-aeds-work-101761197180507.html), took to Instagram on November 4th to share these five essential habits. He emphasizes that these aren't just theories; they're practices backed by science and his extensive clinical experience.
Daily Habits That Could Add Years to Your Life
In his video, titled ‘Asking a Heart Surgeon (https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/apollo-hospital-heart-surgeons-warning-pm2-5-in-polluted-air-enters-bloodstream-raises-heart-attack-risk-101762233282543.html) what daily habits are proven to increase longevity’, Dr. London breaks down each habit. Let's dive in:
- Exercise: The Foundation of a Long Life
Dr. London calls exercise the "number one" habit for a reason. But here's where it gets interesting: it's not just about running on a treadmill. He stresses that the real benefit comes from combining strength training (think lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises) with aerobic training (like running, swimming, or cycling). This combination provides a more holistic approach to fitness, building muscle mass, improving cardiovascular health, and boosting your metabolism. Why this particular combination? Strength training helps maintain muscle mass as we age, which is crucial for mobility and overall strength. Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation. It's a powerful one-two punch!
- Diet: Fueling Your Body for the Long Haul
What you eat is arguably as important as how you move. Dr. London emphasizes mindful eating, focusing on fueling your body with quality ingredients. "Be mindful about what you put in your mouth: protein, fibre, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This is truly the information that you give every cell in your body." This means prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods over sugary drinks and fast food. Consider lean proteins like chicken or fish, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates like whole grains, and healthy fats from sources like avocados and nuts. But here's where it gets controversial... What constitutes a “healthy fat” is widely disputed. Should we be prioritizing saturated fats, like those found in coconut oil, or unsaturated fats, like those found in olive oil? The debate continues!
- Rest and Recovery: The Magic Happens While You Sleep
This is the part most people miss... We often focus solely on what we do and forget the importance of rest. Dr. London stresses that "sleep is king," but it's not just about getting enough hours. It's about creating space for relaxation and recovery throughout the day. This could involve meditation, deep breathing exercises, spending time in nature, or simply taking a few minutes to disconnect from technology. "We know that this is where the magic truly happens... be mindful to create space during the day for yourself.” Think of it as recharging your batteries so you can perform at your best.
- Meaningful Relationships: The Social Connection
Our social connections play a vital role in our well-being. Dr. London highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with people who add purpose and value to your life. He quotes Arthur Brooks: "Real friends, not deal friends." This emphasizes the need for genuine connections built on mutual respect, support, and shared values. These types of relationships provide a sense of belonging, reduce stress, and boost overall happiness, contributing to a longer and healthier life.
- Sauna and Heat Therapy: Turn Up the Heat for Health
Finally, Dr. London recommends sauna and heat therapy. And this is the part most people miss… Regular sauna use has been linked to a variety of health benefits, including decreased cardiovascular risk, reduced all-cause mortality, and a lower risk of Alzheimer's and dementia. "Follow the prescribed protocol," Dr. London advises. He suggests adhering to recommended sauna times and temperatures to maximize the benefits and minimize any potential risks. But here's where it gets controversial... Some experts believe that the benefits of sauna use are overstated, while others caution against sauna use for individuals with certain medical conditions.
Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or healthcare plan.
Disclaimer: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
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What do you think about Dr. London's recommendations? Do you incorporate any of these habits into your daily life? Are there any other habits you believe are crucial for longevity? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
