What is Longevity?

Have you ever felt that looking up health information is like taking a drink from a firehose? Today, we have instant access to so much information. We can ask “Dr.” Google or ChatGPT to diagnose our symptoms. We can watch an Instagram reel on our favorite influencer’s health hacks or check Facebook for tips or recommended products. There are countless different diets and meal planning companies available with just a few clicks. With so much information out there, it is challenging to know what is both true and relates to our own circumstance. Well, let’s get back to the basics. A fundamental question at the heart of all these searches is, “How do I live a long, healthy life?” We use the term longevity to describe this. Longevity means not just living longer, but living healthier—adding life to your years, not just years to your life. There are several factors that contribute to longevity, but three main areas are—Genetics, Environment, and Lifestyle. While we can’t change your genetics and environmental factors can vary, which we learned from the Blue Zones research, the most impactful way to earn healthy years is through a healthy lifestyle. This is the foundation of Lifestyle Medicine, an evidence-based approach that empowers people to prevent, manage, and in some cases, even improve chronic disease through healthy habits.

There are no magic pills for this (yet). But these things will help you.

• Eat healthier and maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise daily
• Manage stress and mental health
• Get sleep
• Stay Social

Small steps in any of these categories can make a big impact. An example is that people who get less than 6 hours of sleep a night have a 200% chance of having a heart attack or that having a sedentary lifestyle is associated with a twofold risk of early death.

But doc, where do I start? Start small—find a primary care provider you trust to help you filter through all the information. They can provide evidence-based resources and help you set goals that are aligned with what is important to you. There are some primary care offices throughout our great city that have certified Lifestyle Medicine providers and others that have programs to provide you with more individualized care. But the most important thing is to find a provider who knows you and you feel comfortable and confident taking control of your health with.

Let’s stay connected. Follow me at https://www.facebook.com/AnnetteFearnotMD for more lifestyle information and opportunities to sign up for future webinars. Watch for upcoming blog posts to dive deeper into these topics.

Interested in a personalized health plan? Learn how MDVIP and our robust wellness program can help you achieve your health goals here.

Blog by Dr. Annette Fearnot, MD - Family Physician certified in Lifestyle Medicine and Menopause. Thrive Studio LLC in partnership with MDVIP.

The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not substitute for medical advice. For medical advice, diagnosis and treatment, please seek advice from your primary care provider.