Experts Offer Advice for Longer, Healthier Lives

Israeli medical experts are sharing crucial advice on how simple daily habits can significantly reduce the risk of serious diseases and improve overall quality of life. Recommendations span from dietary changes and regular physical activity to early detection of cancer and managing mental health.

Cardiologists emphasize that heart health is built over time, with cumulative effects from lifestyle choices. Dr. Erez Levi of Ichilov Medical Center highlights that factors like poor sleep, prolonged stress, and sedentary behavior leave a biological imprint on the heart. Conversely, positive habits such as increasing daily steps or improving sleep quality offer cumulative protection. He stresses that the foundations for heart health are laid in one's twenties and thirties, as conditions like atherosclerosis develop slowly. "Early balance is the key," he states, advocating for at least eight hours of quality sleep and moderate aerobic exercise like brisk walking, noting that even brief movement breaks every 30 minutes can counteract the risks of prolonged sitting.

Sleep apnea, often dismissed as mere snoring, is identified as a serious condition by Dr. Roni Farber. He explains that it can lead to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive impairment. Other overlooked symptoms include morning headaches, daytime sleepiness, and concentration difficulties. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for mitigating these risks.

Regarding cancer prevention, Dr. Maya Gottfried of Meir Medical Center points to smoking as a major risk factor, alongside regular exercise and a balanced diet, which help maintain a healthy weight. While not all cancers are preventable, lifestyle choices significantly influence risk.

Experts also address joint health, with Prof. Shai Kivity noting that smoking and obesity increase the risk of inflammatory joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. He advises adopting healthy habits early in life, including avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress.

Olga Raz, a nutrition expert, recommends avoiding all types of sugar, minimizing processed and animal fats, and consuming smaller meals every 3-4 hours. She advocates for a diet based on complex carbohydrates like whole grains and legumes.

Mental health is also a critical focus. Dr. Iris Cohen Yavin highlights the prevalence of chronic mental disorders and the rise in PTSD, particularly following security events. She stresses the importance of reducing social stigma to encourage early seeking of help and treatment, noting that modern treatment is multi-faceted and effective.

Dr. Sharon Pless emphasizes that over 50% of digestive system cancers are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices, avoiding toxins like sugary drinks, and undergoing regular screening tests. Early detection is paramount, as it significantly improves outcomes and can be life-saving. Prof. Naim Shahada adds that for diabetes, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management are key, but genetic factors also play a role. He encourages regular blood sugar checks, especially for those with risk factors.