Have you ever looked at someone who looks far younger than their actual age and wondered, “How on earth do they do that?” 

The truth is that while some people may be blessed with the gift of good old-fashioned DNA, in many cases, the reason for their youthful glow and long life may have more to do with lifestyle.  People who live well over the age of 70 and even over 100 often have certain lifestyle habits that help them preserve their health and youthful appearance.

If you’re intrigued by the people who live over 100, there are some of their lifestyle habits that you’ll want to know.

They’re Active

The simple act of moving around throughout the day can make a world of difference in your lifespan.  It’s as simple as getting up a few times an hour, or walking to work instead of commuting.  If you really want to go the extra mile, consider joining a fitness class or signing up for a sport like golf or even swimming.

The idea is to get active, whenever possible to reap the maximum benefits.  Remember, as we age our bodies become more susceptible to injury and illness, which is why balancing out this risk with physical exercise can be so beneficial.

Staying physically active will help strengthen your muscles and increase your balance.  Since one of the leading causes of injury in seniors is slips and falls, increasing your balance can significantly improve your wellbeing.

They Eat Well

While it may be acceptable to indulge every now and then, the majority of your diet should be healthy and wholesome, derived from natural sources. Eat plenty of lean proteins and vegetables, and opt for whole grains over refined flour whenever possible.

Many people who live over 100 follow traditional long lifespan diets like the Mediterranean Diet which is full of healthy fat and plenty of antioxidants.

Otherwise, intermittent fasting has become a popular method as it lowers glucose levels, increases the human growth hormone, and even reduces your chances of developing cancer.

They Have Social Lives

One of the biggest health concerns amongst seniors is depression due to feelings of loneliness and isolation.  Yet, feeling lonely is so much more than the simple “blues.”

Loneliness is linked to depression and other mental health concerns.  Yet, studies show that seniors who actively and regularly see their friends and family don’t just find themselves less susceptible to mental health issues, it actually increases their lifespan.

That’s right, the simple act of seeing your friends and staying social can actually make you live longer!  So, go out and have fun and make those plans— you may actually live longer for it!