A healthy lifestyle reaps rewards in later life?

Following simple steps towards leading a healthy lifestyle pays off in old age – here is the proof in a recent article I came across.

Putting lifestyle plans into place as early as possible pays dividends later in life, keeping you active for longer and preventing health problems associated with old age. This is through following a small number of simple steps and having the drive to abide by them. They included regular exercise (either walking or cycling), not smoking, high fruit and vegetable intake and moderating the consumption of alcohol.

These simple steps formed the basis of an experiment that began in 1979 with 2,500 men. Now, nearly four decades on there are 25 pensioners who have maintained the regime and report regularly on their lifestyle. The reports show how the risks of terminal illnesses have been significantly reduced; these include cancer, diabetes, heart attack and dementia.

This is proof that it is lifestyle change that produces long term benefits, not diets that are on short term wins. It is important to note that this experiment began in a time when obesity and fast food problems were nowhere near the size they are now. Also, it comes at a time when the population is living longer and life expectancy is on an upward trajectory.

Simple changes and simple measures that are adhered to can play a huge role in maintaining your health into retirement, ensuring you enjoy your later years.