We can’t do everything perfectly, but there are a few essential things we need to take care of if we want to extend our lives, according to a specialist who has studied longevity for nearly 25 years.
Dr. Andrea Maier has almost a quarter-century of experience in studying longevity, and she has spent the last decade putting her accumulated knowledge into practice. As an internal medicine specialist in Singapore, she conducts tests on patients to determine their aging biomarkers, such as the health of their organs.
Based on the results, Maier suggests practical solutions to increase a patient's chances of living longer: "These may involve changing a microbiome-based diet, along with engaging in certain physical activities or altering sleep habits or administering supplements according to the body's current needs," she said.
Maier not only studies longevity and offers advice, but she also follows the principles that her research confirms, as reported by CNBC.
Challenge Your Brain
The most important focus for Dr. Andrea Maier is brain health.
"I think brain health is very much underestimated. It is important to know your brain's capacity. Everyone should undergo cognitive tests, monitor short and long-term memory, see the brain's multitasking capability," she said.
According to her, there are also new, innovative approaches that incorporate brain maintenance in the gym.
"There is an exercise in Singapore called SPARKD, where you are on a treadmill and then subjected to memory tests, and it's very interesting. You train your brain while training your muscles, bones, and cardiovascular fitness. Think about it - being on a treadmill and doing math. How good are you? How much do you slow down?" Maier said.
"I think the most important thing is simply to use your brain. That's what I constantly do," she added.
Maintain Positive Relationships
For a long and fulfilling life, positive relationships are vital, emphasizes Dr. Andrea Maier.
"It is very important for people to be heard and seen. This gives you a routine in life. Very often, if people do not have social interactions and do not have a purpose in life or a job that can provide such a purpose, then that isolation is very harmful because it induces bad habits," the expert explained.
"First, measure how you feel right now. Do you feel isolated? Do you feel depressed? Do you feel worried? That's what I apply to myself. Then, use social interactions that are important. It's not just about the time spent, but also about the quality and meaning behind them," she added.
T.D.