Description:
Longevity is determined by more than a good diet, low cholesterol levels, exercise, good genes, and avoidance of smoking, says Zorba Paster, M.D., an instructor at the University of Wisconsin Medical School and family medicine practitioner. (His call-in radio program, Zorba Paster on Your Health, is heard on National Public Radio.) "Just as critical are how much you like your job, whether you have a good or rotten relationship with your parents and children, what sort of friendships you have, whether you're depressed or happy, angry or delighted, abusive or kindhearted." In The Longevity Code, Paster explains the five "spheres of wellness": physical, mental, kinship (family and social), spiritual, and material (meaningful work, sufficient money, safe and pleasing surroundings). If you have balance and good health in all five spheres, says Paster, you'll live longer. Not every "longevity booster" is right for everybody, so Paster uses self-tests, fill-in charts, activity suggestions, and plenty of anecdotes to help you develop your own individualized plan. Then he offers 76 "boosters": steps that you can take to increase your longevity. Some are simple to put into action immediately, such as "own a pet," "drink plenty of water," and "take care of your teeth and gums." Others, however, take a great deal more effort and commitment, such as "reduce air pollution, radon, and indoor toxins," "don't live in a violent environment," and "cultivate a resilient, optimistic, can-do attitude." Paster offers tips to get you started on each one that you choose. --Joan Price
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