STRESS (- 2 years)

Did you know that you could lose a year of your life for every major stressful event that you experience (losing your job, personal injury/illness, death of a family member or spouse, divorce)? In order to cope with stress the body releases cortisol, the stress hormone.

Research is showing that raised cortisol levels kill cells within the brain that controls memory and can cause premature aging of the brain. Stress increases your chances of heart attack or stroke and may have a very negative effect on your immune system.

Negative stress-management techniques such as overeating, denial, binge drinking, taking drugs and smoking are only short-term solutions that should be avoided. Focus on positive ways to cope with stress such as relaxation, exercise, massage, artistic expression or talking with family, friends, or a therapist.

CIGARETTE SMOKING (- 8 years)

Cigarette smoking is the single most important cause of preventable disease and premature death in developed countries. If you smoke, please read that statement again!

Tobacco smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, many of which are highly toxic, such as arsenic, formaldehyde, cyanide, benzene, toluene, and acrolein. Smoking increases the risk of at least 50 different medical problems – ranging from cancer, heart disease, infertility, digestive challenges, dementia, not to mention a huge impact on health expectancy. The good news is you CAN turn back the clock. Once smokers quit, their health risks rapidly drop, and within a few years they may almost be back to normal. Do yourself, family and friends a big favor and find the support you need to stop smoking.