7 Simple Steps to a Longer, Healthier Life

Taking care of yourself can lead to a longer, healthier life. There are seven simple steps that research has shown can make a difference. Each involves making good choices and requires some discipline, but all are doable.

Dubbed “Life’s Simple 7” by the American Heart Association, they involve:

• Eating better, which can stave off chronic disease. Steps include increasing your intake of vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds.
• Maintaining a healthy weight. This can reduce the burden on your heart, lungs, blood vessels and bones.
• Exercising. It can help with your cholesterol levels, weight and muscle tone.
• Quitting cigarettes, because even one can hurt you. There is no risk-free level of exposure to tobacco smoke. 
• Managing blood pressure. Unhealthy ranges strain the heart, arteries and kidneys.
• Controlling cholesterol. Low cholesterol gives your arteries the best chance to stay clear of fatty blockages that reduce blood flow.
• Reducing blood sugar. This can lower the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.

-- Brought to you by AARP and the American Heart Association.