GENERAL HEALTH FACTS

The US spends almost three times more on healthcare than any other country in the world, but ranks last in life expectancy among the 12 wealthiest industrialized countries.

Swearing can make you feel better when you’re in pain.

A lack of exercise now causes as many deaths as smoking.

Walking outside – or spending time in green space – can reduce negative thoughts and boost self-esteem.

Between 2000 and 2015, the average global life expectancy increased by five years.

Feeling stressed? Read. Getting lost in a book can lower levels of cortisol, and other unhealthy stress hormones, by 68%.

Chocolate is good for your skin; its antioxidants improve blood flow and protect against UV damage

Learning a new language or playing a musical instrument gives your brain a boost.

Although it only takes you a few minutes to eat a meal, it takes your body hours to completely digest the food.

Laughing is good for the heart and can increase blood flow by 20 percent.

Maintaining good relationships with your friends and family, reduces harmful levels of stress and boosts your immune system.

An apple a day does keep the doctor away. Apples can reduce levels of bad cholesterol to keep your heart healthy.

Smelling rosemary may increase alertness and improve memory so catch a whiff before a test or important meeting.

Writing in a journal can make you a happier person!

Almonds, avocados and arugula (the three ‘A’s) can boost your s*x drive and improve fertility.

The amino acid found in eggs can help improve your reflexes.

Yoga can boost your cognitive function and lower stress.

Tea can lower risks of heart attack, certain cancers, type 2 Diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. Just make sure your tea isn’t too sweet!

Extra virgin olive oil is the healthiest fat on the planet

Vitamin D is as important as calcium in determining bone health, and most people don’t get enough of it

Drinking coffee can reduce the risk of depression, especially in women.

Women below the age of 50 need twice the amount of iron per day as men of the same age.

Your skin works hard. Not only is it the largest organ in the body, but it regulates your temperature and defends against disease and infection.

Always look on the bright side: being an optimist can help you live longer.

Sitting and sleeping are great in moderation, but too much can increase your chances of an early death.

Eating oatmeal provides a serotonin boost to calm the brain and improve your mood.

Chewing gum makes you more alert, relieves stress and reduces anxiety levels.