How to live longer: 'I'm a doctor - I recommend four tips to my clients to improve longevity'
Reducing stress is a core component of longevity
GETTY IMAGES
Covering your mouth when you cough, washing your hands regularly and getting health check-ups are all small things you can do to improve your health.
But the long-term benefits of doing these simple tasks are major and performed consistently can lead to extra years on your life.
Dr Elise Dallas, a Women's Health GP at the Harley Street GP clinic, The London General Practice, said she incorporated these measures into her life to show her clients the benefits of looking after your health.
She said: "By incorporating these preventive measures into my own life, I strive to be an example to my patients. I believe that leading by example is a powerful way to inspire and motivate patients to prioritise their health and well-being."
The doctor recommends covering your mouth when you sneeze and cough
GETTY IMAGES
Health screenings
The doctor said: "I recommend appropriate health screenings based on individual risk factors and age. I ensure that I follow the recommended guidelines for screenings myself and make sure to get regular check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and other relevant tests."
Sleep and rest
Getting seven to nine hours' worth of sleep is a necessity for your body, for it to regenerate and recover from the day prior.
Dr Dallas advised: "I emphasise the significance of adequate sleep and rest to my patients. I prioritise getting enough sleep each night and practice good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding electronic devices before bed and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule."
Hygiene and infection control
There is always the chance of you catching an infection but there are actions you can do to lower the odds of catching one.
Dr Dallas said: "I educate patients on proper hygiene practices, including regular handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes. In my practice, I follow strict infection control measures and ensure that I adhere to hygiene protocols in my personal life as well."
Stress reduction
Stress can be one of the biggest silent killers in your life. It can keep you up in the evening, obsess your thoughts and have a significant impact on your life.
To combat this, the doctor said: "I discuss stress reduction techniques with my patients and highlight the importance of finding healthy ways to manage stress. I engage in activities like meditation, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing hobbies that help me relax and unwind."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Regular health screenings are important as you get older
GETTY IMAGES
These four measures incorporated into your life can add extra years to it. Dr Dallas concluded her advice on the importance of seeing your GP if something seems wrong.
She said: "Check-up when something is abnormal: I encourage my patients to be aware and come forward if something doesn’t seem right but also schedule routine check-ups.
"Don’t suffer in silence! Similarly, I prioritise regular visits to my own GP to monitor my well-being and catch any potential issues early on."
Another doctor recently revealed one type of food they prioritise to live longer.
You may like
