Though the average lifespan of Americans is 79 years, these numeric quantities do not really have quality in terms of health and fitness. The world’s most refined medical care and medications have helped Americans to drag their way to 79 years.
On the other hand, there are few countries across the globe, such as Japan, where women have a life expectancy of 88 years. The question is how they live longer even when they do not have as many medical and medicinal facilities as Americans.
First World Health Problems
Health issues are increasingly becoming more common among American adults. These health issues are becoming one of the leading causes of preventable death in Americans. According to estimates, more than two-thirds of adults in the United States are living with obesity and weight issues.
Obesity brings along other health issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and other problems. Unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle are the main culprits of these health-related issues. Asians such as the Japanese live on a more natural diet and have a very active lifestyle which helps them secure a quality life.
Foods To Avoid
As time passes, the food industry in America is coming up with ways to preserve and store food for a longer period. In order to increase the shelf life, hazardous things are added to the food that not only deteriorates its natural nutritional value but also makes it harmful. Such types of processed, packaged, and frozen food are very harmful.
In comparison to natural and home-cooked food, packaged and processed foods have either fewer nutrients or added nutrients. The packaged and processed food even offer high-calorie counts as compared to natural versions. Thus in order to ensure better health and longevity, it is essential to give up on certain eating habits. Here is the list of foods to avoid for a better lifespan.
1. Over Consumption Of Alcohol
In America, the legal status of alcohol results in its excessive consumption. Alcohol and alcoholic beverages do not enjoy legal status in many countries. Experts believe that even light but regular intake of alcohol can put a person at increased risk of some major health issues. Alcohol abuse, on the other hand, can destroy health and make a person vulnerable to many health problems. There are several rehab centers through which the addicted ones can be treated and become healthy. The aftercare treatment plans are also offered to the patients to help them maintain recovery and sobriety.
2. Ultra Processed Food
Ultra-processed foods are very unhealthy, and they put our bodies at an increased risk of some major health issues. As compared to natural foods, the processed foods are altered. Food is generally mechanically or chemically processed to achieve numerous goals. However, for consumers, such foods have the least value to offer. These might fulfill the appetite but may not fulfill the nutritional demand of the body.
In many agricultural countries, people grow food through natural means, and they enjoy a better lifespan as compared to Americans. The key to longevity and better health is more natural and simple food. It provides few calories and more nutrients. Natural food is free from chemicals that people usually take in the form of processed food.
3. Processed Red Meat
Even in its most natural form, red meat should be taken in limited quantities for better health. The processed red meat is extremely dangerous, and it can lead to horrific health outcomes. Processed meat in all forms such as cured meat, deli, sausages, bacon, and canned meat is rich in harmful materials such as hidden salt, nitrites, nitrates, and saturated fats.
Studies show that consistent and extensive consumption of processed red meat increases the risk for various types of cancer, more significantly colon cancer. Furthermore, it can be very harmful to cardiovascular health. Unprocessed red meat might not taste as good as processed, but it is safer to consume.
4. Eating Fried Food
The consumption of fried food today is more than ever before in the history of mankind. This increase is occurring all across the globe. Eating more fried food increases the risk of diabetes and heart-related problems. Experts suggest that the human body was not meant for eating as much fried food as we eat today.
In many Americans consuming fried food has taken the form of addiction. This type of food addiction is one of the leading causes of obesity among Americans. In order to increase your lifespan, you should cut off your fried food intake.
All the excess fats coming into the body through fried foods are stored in the body. It does not only affect organ function but also profoundly affects muscle function, making it hard to maintain physical activity.
5. Added Sugar
Americans are unconsciously taking in huge amounts of sugar in the form of added sugar. On average, an American usually takes 17 teaspoons of added sugar in a day. This is a huge amount, and it is almost double the recommended amount. It is better to read the labels before picking up your favorite drink or food at the grocery store.
It will help you in avoiding such sources of added sugar. Excessive intake of sugar has a very strong connection with diabetes and obesity. Some deliberate attempts will help you to cut off excessive sugar intake for a healthier and longer life.
Take Away
Unhealthy eating habits are one of the major causes of preventable death among Americans. In the US, people deal with health issues such as diabetes and other heart-related problems, which are the leading causes of premature death. There are some foods that everyone should avoid to add some years to their life. Healthy eating and physical activity can help to live longer and healthier.