A Life Extension Foundation study found Louisiana has the fourth worst outlook for life expectancy in the near future. Louisiana’s ranking is based on having the 48th best actual life expectancy at birth at 73 years and the least healthy lifestyle. Life Extension Director of Education, Dr. Michael Smith, says for two years in a row the overall average life span has declined and lifestyle is a major component.
“The pandemic played a role and unfortunately drug overdoses in keeping those numbers low as well.”
CDC data on life expectancy showed different lifestyle measurements – bridging diet, fitness, stress, sleep, outdoor recreation, and social connection – to forecast how life expectancy is expected to trend in all 50 states and D.C. in the years to come. Smith says Louisiana ranked low along with other southern states.
“I’m from Texas. I love Southern foods and that’s probably one of the biggest factors is diet, and lack of exercise. Louisiana is just right there with Alabama all of the southern states did not do very well.”
Lack of sleep and stress are two strong factors that decrease life expectancy. Smith says Louisianans should include a combination of exercise, healthy eating, outdoor recreation, getting enough sleep, and decreasing anxiety are subtle steps to becoming healthy and increasing life expectancy.
“We did this to encourage people. Please take some time and get outdoors – go somewhere – go to a beach – go to a mountain whatever. It is so important for your mental health, your social health, your family health, I think that’s critical.”
The U.S. ranks No. 40 overall in the world for life expectancy. Smith says self-care is critical in raising life expectancy numbers.
For more information in this study. https://www.lifeextension.com/wellness/lifestyle/best-us-states-for-long-life-expectancy
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