FOREVER YOUNG

1. EXERCISE

Studies show that regular exercise slows down cell decay and can reduce your biological age by up to 15 years. Just half an hour of exercise per day increases your life expectancy.

2. DIET

A healthy diet works like a fountain of youth. The secondary plant substances in fruit, vegetables, legumes and nuts are antioxidants which protect cells from damage by free radicals.

3. STRESS

Long-term stress leads to disruption of nerve cells, which causes the telomeres to shrink quicker. Just one year of stress can accelerate the ageing process and increases the risk of dementia in later life. Smiling, yoga and meditation are good for combatting stress. 

4. SLEEP

As you sleep, your mind and body are regenerated. The body secrete more growth hormones during sleep, stimulates processes of cell renewal and increases immune defences. If you perpetually get too little or poor quality sleep, you will age quicker, get ill more often and be more forgetful.

5. ALCOHOL

Excessive consumption of alcohol is bad for your health.

6. CONTENTMENT

A happy, contented life and positive attitude extend your life by up to 10 years. So pay more attention to the things you enjoy.

7. MENTAL FITNESS

You should not only exercise your body, but also your mental capacities. Creative hobbies like reading, learning a new language keep your brain young and have a positive effect on ageing.