Living a long life is partly down to luck and partly down to factors outside of our control, including race, gender, genes and family history.
However, there are several things we can do to boost our chances of a long lifespan. Eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, limiting stress, socialising, steering clear of drugs and reducing alcohol intake are all important elements that influence longevity.
According to one centenarian, making wise diet and supplementation choices is key.
Ida Keeling, a track and field athlete who lived until the impressive age of 106, did not let age slow her down. At 102, she even set a world record in the 60-metre dash at The Armory in New York.
Ida took a cod liver oil supplement every morning
TikTok/@obsessedwithorganics / GETTY IMAGES
Speaking on the TikTok account @obsessedwithorganics, about the "secrets to staying healthy at 100", Ida said: "Eat for nutrition, not for taste.
"I take my cod liver oil in the morning, I take my orange juice and all kinds of vegetables - they're good for your eyes."
Eating well is widely hailed as an effective longevity booster. In 'Diet strategies for promoting healthy aging and longevity: An epidemiological perspective', published in the National Library of Medicine, experts confirmed that "maintaining a healthy weight throughout life is pivotal for healthy ageing and longevity".
They added: "The specific types or food sources of dietary fat, protein and carbohydrates are more important in influencing chronic disease risk and mortality than their quantity.
"Some traditional diets (e.g. the Mediterranean, Nordic, and Okinawa) and contemporary dietary patterns, such as healthy plant-based diet index, the DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diet, and alternate healthy eating index, have been associated with lower mortality and healthy longevity."
Another longevity expert pointed to the benefits of strategic eating, claiming that most 100-year-olds have eaten one type of carbohydrate their entire lives.
Alongside eating well, Ida boosted her diet with cod liver oil supplements, which the experts at Holland & Barrett describe as "one of nature's most nutrient-dense treasures".
The experts explained that cod liver oil may support the immune system, ease joint pain, provide support for bones, support eye health, boost brain function, and reduce your chances of developing heart disease.
Healthline confirmed that cod liver oil boasts a multitude of further benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and helping heal stomach and gut ulcers.
A study published in the British Medical Journal did point to some risks of taking cod liver oil, though.
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A healthy, balanced diet is hailed as an effective longevity booster
GETTY IMAGESIn 'Regular use of fish oil supplements and course of cardiovascular diseases: prospective cohort study', experts warned: "Regular use of fish oil supplements might be a risk factor for atrial fibrillation and stroke among the general population but could be beneficial for progression of cardiovascular disease from atrial fibrillation to major adverse cardiovascular events, and from atrial fibrillation to death.
"Further studies are needed to determine the precise mechanisms for the development and prognosis of cardiovascular disease events with regular use of fish oil supplements."
It's crucial to note that before taking a new supplement, you should always consult your GP, as a medical professional can assess your specific health needs and offer tailored medical advice.
Supplements must also be used to support a healthy, balanced diet - not replace it.
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