Small changes in more equal societies good for longer, good lives

Research points to five sure ways to influence health and extend life

Living long and feeling well until the end is possible, according to research from Olle Melander, professor of internal medicine at Skåne University Hospital. The research, which also includes Melander himself as a "test animal", provides insights into how one can influence one's biological aging and prevent age-related diseases.

Genes play a role, but can be influenced by lifestyle

The genes are a decisive factor, but according to Melander, it is possible to influence their effect through lifestyle changes. The research identifies different gene variants that increase the risk of disease and early aging. Melander emphasizes that while genes make up about 50 percent of our health, we can influence the rest through our lifestyle and environment.

Five surefire ways to extend life and promote health:

1. Eat only almost full: Eating slowly and stopping when you are about 80 percent full reduces disease-causing processes and can prolong life.
2. Quit smoking: Smoking shortens life by up to five years, according to research.
3. Let your "bad genes" cheer you up: Lifestyle changes have a greater payoff if you have a genetic predisposition. It is important to understand that it is not done just because you have unfavorable genes.
4. Be active: Regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of brisk walking each day, can add three extra years.
5. Fill life with meaning: Having a sense of meaning in life is as important as exercise. Social factors, such as spending time with friends and family, as well as involvement in interesting activities, have a positive effect on health.

Social aspects and cognitive stimulation important for aging

The research highlights that social aspects, such as spending time with friends and family, laughter, and intellectual stimulation through study, play as important a role as exercise in healthy ageing. Finding meaning in life is a central part of well-being. Healthy, religious contexts with an emphasis on tolerance, equality and solidarity are very constructive.

Aging starts at 30, but it's never too late to start thinking about your health

Although aging starts at 30, the research emphasizes that it is never too late to positively influence health. Lifestyle changes can be of great benefit even after you have had, for example, a heart attack. However, Melander emphasizes the importance that the earlier you take hold of your lifestyle, the greater benefit you do for the health of the population.

Unclear connections between weight and aging

The study also touches on the connection between weight and aging. It is established that a certain excess weight is not as dangerous as previously thought, and obese people sometimes live longer than normal weight people. However, Melander emphasizes that the most important thing is to counteract unfavorable genes through early and continuous lifestyle changes.

Eating a varied diet, including foods such as milk, cheese, broccoli, kale, nuts, and fatty fish, as well as regular exposure to the sun, contributes to stronger bones. Physical activity and a healthy lifestyle are fundamental to promoting long-term brain and body health.

The study from Lund University points out that women who experience menopause early, between the ages of 40 and 45, as well as those who losing weight after 50, are at increased risk of fractures. It underscores the importance of paying attention to these factors and taking preventive measures to preserve bone health.

Association between economic inequality and health outcomes

The book "The spirit of equality” by Richard Wilkinson and Kate Pickett highlights the link between economic inequality and community health. According to the authors, a more equal society usually leads to overall improvements, both for the well-being of individuals and for the functioning of society.

Wilkinson and Pickett argue that a high degree of economic equality creates better conditions for a healthier society. In line with this, their work emphasizes the importance of reducing the gaps between different social classes and promoting a more equal distribution of resources.

According to the "Spirit of Equality", there are strong links between economic inequality and a range of health outcomes, including increased incidence of mental health problems, substance abuse, and low life expectancy. They emphasize that these consequences do not only affect the most disadvantaged, but also those in the higher social classes.

Through international comparisons and extensive evidence, the book supports the thesis that more equal societies tend to be better on many levels, not only in terms of health but also social relations and societal stability. Wilkinson and Pickett argue that there is an "egalitarian spirit" that permeates our society and that should be taken seriously to create sustainable and healthy societies.