Though no one can predict how long they’ll live, tangible lifestyle measures can significantly boost a person's chances of longevity.
Regular exercise, coupled with a healthy diet, are the two most widely discussed longevity strategies - but other habits can also make a difference.
A doctor who specialises in longevity optimisation recently took to TikTok to discuss some overlooked techniques.
Dr Jacob, a board-certified medical doctor in internal medicine and obesity medicine, claimed that habits - such as adequate hydration - could "add up to 10 years to your life".
Doctor Jacob highlighted the importance of adequate hydration
GETTY / TIKTOK
“These three habits will make you live longer and happier,” Dr Jacob explained, naming 10 minutes of sunlight as a key hack.
“It boosts your vitamin D levels and resets your cortisol levels for the whole day,” he said.
Dr Jacob continued: “Number two is five minutes of resistance exercise. Use five-pound dumbbells or resistance bands to maintain muscle mass. This usually starts to decline after the age of 30.”
The third habit on Dr Jacob's list is adequate hydration, which can be enhanced with additional ingredients like salt.
“Add a quarter of a teaspoon of Himalayan salt to warm water,” he instructed. “This will hydrate you three times faster - even better if you add some lemon to it. Do this daily and you will outlive your friends.”
According to experts at Loma Linda University, adding a small amount of salt to drinking water helps replenish lost electrolytes.
The habit essentially enhances how water moves in and out of cells, ultimately preventing dehydration.
However, preventative medicine specialist Dr Peter Bastian explained: “It’s crucial to recognise that not everyone needs to add salt to their water.
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Electrolytes are essential for supporting the body’s core functions
GETTY
“Most individuals can obtain sufficient sodium through their diet, and maintaining a balanced diet while drinking plain water should provide enough electrolytes for proper hydration.”
While not deemed a direct cause of longevity, electrolytes are essential for supporting the body’s core functions.
By aiding these vital functions they may also help fight inflammation which is a key contributor to many life-shortening diseases.
It should be noted that while these habits offer unique benefits, the most highly impactful measures on longevity remain exercise and a healthy diet.
