Living to 100

People born 100 years ago would typically live to the ripe old age of 50 years, while children born this year are expected to live longer than 80 years. A study of centurions reveals some general guidelines that you can use to help extend your own life, regardless of your current age:

1. Be born a female. Hard to do much about this, but females have been outliving males for centuries.

2. Stay married. Married people live longer than single people - 10 years longer for men, 4 years for women.

3. Eat less. Research shows that life expectancy can actually double if you reduce your food intake.

4. Pass up refined sugar. Sugar can speed the aging process.

5. Use little salt. Getting used to salt-free tastes will take some time.

6. Reduce protein intake. Excess protein stresses the body and reduces your ability to fight disease.

7. Regular exercise. No need for a gym membership. Brisk walking improves circulation, metabolism and emotional well-being.

Don't take a single day for granted!

Health information provided by the Association of New Jersey Chiropractors (ANJC).