On the occasion of World Health Day, which falls on April 7th annually, Dr. Lyubov Drozdova, Chief Specialist of Preventive Medicine at the Russian Ministry of Health, identified seven principles for prolonging life.
Key principles for longevity and maintaining health:
Smoking damages blood vessel walls and leads to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Studies indicate that the body begins to recover immediately after quitting smoking, and within a year, the risk of cardiovascular complications is halved
Alcohol affects the heart and nervous system, causing heart rhythm disturbances and cardiomyopathy, and leading to nerve cell death. Abstaining from alcohol helps prevent these complications.
Excess sodium in your diet causes fluid retention, increases blood volume, and raises blood pressure, which strains the heart and damages the kidneys. Reducing salt intake protects the heart and kidneys and lowers blood pressure.
It is recommended to eat at least 400 grams daily, as these foods, rich in vitamins and minerals, help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and promote general health.
Moderate physical activity, such as walking, at a rate of 150-300 minutes per week, contributes to strengthening the heart and muscles, regulating weight, and improving blood circulation.
Sleeping 7-8 hours a day is essential for the body's recovery, reducing stress, maintaining mental and physical health, and is a factor in preventing chronic diseases.
Maintaining mental and social activity:
Connecting with loved ones, learning new skills, reading and participating in social activities all help to stimulate the brain, delay cognitive decline, and promote mental clarity for many years.
Drozdova noted that consistently following these seven principles contributes to promoting general health and significantly extending lifespan.
