We are living longer than ever before - if you discount Methuselah! The average life expectancy in the developed world is over seventy these days. But why is it that some of us are going to live to an older age than others? Is there anything we can do to determine the length of our stay on Earth? Or is it down to the luck of the draw?

Some of it is down to our genes. And there is not arguing that others will be unlucky - either they get hit by the curse of a disease such as cancer or they fall victim to an unfortunate accident. For those who are given every chance by nature to lead a long life, there are measures we can take to maximize that - and to ensure we live healthy, enjoyable lives.

We all know that exercise gives you a better chance ot surviving longer. We need to get our heart working, pumping oxygen around our bodies. We need to look after our muscles and bones. A healthy and balanced diet is also essential to keep us healthy and fit. We all know that - we are constantly being reminded of it by the Government.

Stress is a part of modern life. Without realizing it, it eats away at us. Work-life balance is so important. If we commit too much to our career and put ourselves and our families second, we will leave ourselves open to heart disease. We need to take time out for ourselves to relax. You only get one chance at this life. Do not throw it away by ambition at work. It is good to get on, but not to the detriment of everything else that is important in life.

Wealth, unfortunately, is also important to a long life. Studies have shown that people with more money are more likely to live longer than those living in poverty. It stands to reason that if you have more money, then you are able to afford more of life's luxuries. But you arealso more likely to be able to afford healthy foods. Education is also crucial. We sometimes get fed up of the nanny state drumming into us what we should and should not do. But if we are correctly educated, then we tend to understand more the importance of looking after our bodies.

Finally, there has always been a debate about nature against nurture. Some of us are born with bodies more equipped to cope with everything life throws at us. But at the end of the day, why do some survive longer than others? Is it due to an accident of birth? Or is it down to the way we are brought up and looked after? I would suggest it is a combination of both. Healthy parents tend to pass down healthy lifestyles to their offspring. It is very easy for obese people to blame their genes. But you need to look after yourself to give yourself the best possible chance of a good and long lfie.

Learn more about this author, Phil Hill.
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