Small daily improvements—adding 5 minutes of sleep, 2 minutes of vigorous physical activity, and a better diet—are enough to gain approximately one year of life expectancy.

noli's read

This advice is based on an observational study published in The Lancet (2024) that analyzed data from the UK Biobank. The research demonstrates a robust correlation between a combination of healthy behaviors and an increase in life expectancy and 'healthspan' (years of healthy life). The study uses objective measurements (accelerometers) rather than self-reporting, which reinforces the reliability of the data. However, this is an observational study: although the researchers adjusted the results for numerous factors, it does not prove a direct causal link (the classic 'this causes that'). The claim is faithful to the statistical modeling presented by the authors, but it is important to note that these gains are statistical estimates based on population averages. They are not an individual promise, as genetics and other environmental factors play a major role. In sum, the idea that small, cumulative, long-term changes have a significant impact is scientifically consistent and supported by current data.

the sources

1. 1Stamatakis E et al. 2022
2. 2Stamatakis E et al. 2023