4 tips to turn back the aging clock

[TexasStooge]

By MACIE JEPSON / WFAA ABC 8

Canadian researchers have compiled some tips they said will not only add years to one's life, but will also have one feeling better tomorrow.

Even better news, the researchers said what they found helps one live longer and healthier takes only common sense.

Their first tip to help extend one's life is walking one's self young.

A three year study of retirement-aged men showed a brisk half-hour walk three times a week gave them the heart rate and flexibility of guys ten years their junior.

Tip number two is if you smoke, stop.

"Our body has many systems that allow healing," said Dr. Jivesh Sharma, with the Texas Cancer Associates. "So, whether it's the scarring in the lungs, or the damage done to DNA and cells in the lung, we have mechanisms in our body that allow us to repair that damage."

Dr. Sharma said when one stops smoking, they immediately breath better as well.

The study showed even quitting in your 50s can cut your risk of dying in the next 15 years in half.

"If everybody in this country would stop smoking and just eat fruits and vegetables, the cancer rates in this country would go down by one third," Dr. Sharma said.

Eating right leads to tip number three. Simply replacing chips and dip with brightly colored fruits and vegetables can turn back the clock.

Tip number four is one that not only heals, but also one can enjoy. Having fun with friends is a healthy way to expand your living years.

"Loneliness and low self-esteem are two of the greatest causes of depression, and I think they go hand in hand," said Dr. Todd Clements, Meier Clinics.

Clements said depression can lead to physical ailments.

Long-term research at John Hopkins University found staying social adds as many years to your life as cutting cholesterol and lowering blood pressure because friendly people are more positive.

"Everyone needs somebody who knows them as we call, warts and all, and still loves them," Clements said.