Keep Moving to Live Longer

A new study is shedding some light on how our activity levels affect how long we live. Using data from over 3,000 people between the ages of 50-79, researchers examined participants’ activity levels using accelerometers for 7 days, then monitored them over the next 8 years.

The results were surprising. Participants with the lowest level of activity were 3 times more likely to die over the 8 year follow up period than the participants with an average activity level, and were 5 times more likely to die over the 8 year period than those in the highest activity level.

There was no magic number when it came to determining how much activity in a day you need to live longer. But, what they did find was that an extra 10 minutes of light activity made a difference, and replacing 30 minutes of sitting time with light or moderate activity produced even better results. They found that the activity doesn’t have to be sweat inducing to produce results. Activities like housework or taking a walk can be good for you. The conclusion of the study was that more activity is better than less, and any activity is better than no activity.

Washing the dishes may not help with weight loss, but it may help you. Now, the little things you do around the house like laundry, vacuuming, and walking the dog might feel a little less like chores, and more like ways to be healthy and extend your life!

The above is offered by Dr. Shillingford, M.D., P.A., a board certified surgeon specializing in laparoscopic and obesity surgery in Boca Raton, Florida. Dr. Shillingford’s gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and lap band patients come from all over South Florida, including Delray Beach, Parkland, Pompano Beach, Wellington, West Palm Beach, and as far away as Jacksonville, Tampa, and Orlando. Many of Dr. Shillingford’s patients are looking for motivation to get and stay active, and what better motivation could you have than living longer?