22/07/2025
4 things to do to live longer.
While genetics plays a significant role in living to 105 and beyond, Stacy Andersen emphasises that healthy habits are paramount for reaching one's late 80s and early 90s.
1.) Eat five different colors a day.
Eat five different colors of fruits and vegetables every day to ensure she gets a range of nutrients. "You're getting a wider variety, and it just feels good to check that box each day,"
2.) Challenge yourself to learn a new skill: Andersen has taken up sailing, an activity she finds both cognitively and physically stimulating. She encouraged others to pursue new interests and said, "'Whatever you've always wanted to do that's new, go and do that!'" She noted that several centenarians she met took up painting in their later years. Engaging the brain and attention with new activities strengthens and builds neural pathways, which Andersen identifies as the number one factor for brain health.
3.) Exercise regularly: The longevity scientist makes it a point to incorporate movement into her daily routine, varying her workouts between long hikes with her dog and treadmill runs. She observes that a typical centenarian is active, with many living independently into their 90s. These individuals often drive for an average of 10 years longer and work for five years longer than their peers.
4.) Eat well, sleep well: Andersen tries to eat five different colors of fruits and vegetables every day to ensure she gets a range of nutrients. "You're getting a wider variety, and it just feels good to check that box each day," she told the publication. She also prioritises getting eight hours of high-quality sleep. She believes that feeling refreshed upon waking is more crucial than the exact number of hours slept.
Stacy Anderson, Healthy aging scientist.
