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The 5 pillars of longevity: Movement, nutrition, sleep, stress reduction, and social connection

The term “longevity” encompasses both living longer and staying in good health. Research consistently indicates that five lifestyle pillars promote longevity: movement, nutrition, sleep, stress reduction, and socialization. But it’s impossible to gauge which pillar counts most toward longevity.

C-reactive protein: Should healthy people be tested for it?

Scientists are learning that chronic inflammation can raise people’s risk for cardiovascular disease much like established risk factors. The American College of Cardiology advocates measuring an inflammation marker called C-reactive protein in healthy people to reveal hidden heart disease risk.

Loneliness linked to cognitive decline and early death

A 2026 study suggested that feeling lonely was consistently linked to worsening cognitive health and a shorter life among older adults, even after accounting for social isolation.

What is a longevity specialist, and should I see one?

Longevity (or healthspan) specialists focus on preventing age-related disease and extending people’s healthy years, rather than waiting to treat illness once it appears. Ideally, a longevity specialist focuses on proven health fundamentals before supplements and experimental therapies.

What medications should you stop before a dental procedure?

People undergoing a dental procedure sometimes wonder if they should stop taking any medications beforehand. They should provide a complete list of prescription medications, over-the-counter remedies, and supplements to their dentist and discuss potential risks. People should never stop taking a medication without consulting their doctor.

Strength training over decades linked to longer life

A 2026 study suggests that people who do up to two hours of strength training each week over several decades may have a lower risk of dying earlier from several serious conditions, including heart disease and neurological diseases such as dementia.

Taking breaks from sitting to move around may lower cancer risk

A 2026 study of more than 91,000 adults found that uninterrupted sitting raised risk for death from cancer. Replacing prolonged sitting with light, moderate, or vigorous activity significantly reduced risk, suggesting frequent movement breaks may help counter harms of sedentary behavior over time.

Does intermittent fasting work?

Intermittent fasting, a dietary pattern that alternates between periods of eating and fasting, has become a popular weight-loss approach. A 2026 scientific analysis suggests it may not work as well for weight loss as some people have thought.

Think fast: How does your face protect you?

Not only is our face our calling card to the world, its features evolved to mount immune system defenses, help ward off illness, and protect us in many ways. Our eyes, nose, mouth, and facial structure itself all contribute to our continued well-being.

Stomachs growl, noses run, and yawning is contagious: Ever wonder why?

There are things our bodies do so often and so automatically that we barely notice them. Yawning, growling stomachs, and runny noses are good examples. Each is a universal part of our daily human experience — but did you ever wonder why?

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