As humans, we are intrinsically social beings. Our connections with others not only add richness and depth to our lives but also, as research reveals, significantly impact our health and longevity. Here at Longevicals, we embrace this synergistic dance between social interaction and longevity, offering insights grounded in scientific research.
A study by Holt-Lunstad and colleagues demonstrated that social relationships impact mortality risk to the same extent as well-established risk factors like smoking and alcohol consumption, and even exceed the influence of other risk factors such as physical inactivity and obesity (1).
Indeed, our social connections can impact various aspects of our health, from our cardiovascular system to our mental well-being.
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How Loneliness Affects Our Health?
Loneliness is known to impact some serious chronic conditions, including heart disease, hypertension, stroke, obesity, diabetes, and pulmonary disease. (4)
Studies have shown that loneliness, infrequent social interactions are linked to a higher risk of dementia and cognitive decline in older adults. (2)
Loneliness and social isolation are also strongly linked to depression and anxiety in older adults. Furthermore, individuals who are socially isolated or lonely are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors like unhealthy eating, smoking, excessive drinking, and lack of exercise. (2) Studies have shown individuals experiencing both loneliness and obesity often exhibit: Low physical activity, nighttime eating and sleep disruptions. (4)
Having Social Connections Can Improve Our Health
Social connections not only prevent negative health outcomes but also promote positive ones. When we establish meaningful connections with others, it can decrease stress levels, lower blood pressure, and improve our mood, all contributing to our overall health (3).
The Importance of Supportive Connections
It’s not just about having social connections; it’s also about how supportive they are. Supportive connections relate to lower tobacco and alcohol use, while unsupportive ones can lead to unhealthy and risky behaviors. (2)
Building Your Social Connections for Healthy Aging
Building and maintaining robust social connections can take many forms:
1. Family and Friends: Regularly engage with your loved ones. Sharing experiences, joys, and even challenges can create deep bonds and contribute to your longevity.
2. Community Involvement: Join clubs, participate in community activities, or volunteer. These experiences can foster a sense of belonging and mutual support.
3. Online Communities: In our digital age, online communities can also provide meaningful connections. Participate in forums or groups that resonate with your interests.
Longevicals’ Approach to Longevity
At Longevicals, we appreciate the importance of these social connections and aim to integrate this understanding into our high-quality, science-backed premium supplements. We are going to launch our first products soon. We believe in promoting an ecosystem of health and wellness, which includes not only potent supplements but also lifestyle enhancements like fostering meaningful social connections.
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Join the Longevicals’ “Longevity Community”
We invite you to join our “Longevity Community” as we embark on this journey towards health and longevity. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest news about our upcoming product launches and access exclusive content on the science of aging, lifestyle tips, and more.
Together, we can explore the dynamic interplay of social connections and longevity and strive towards healthier, longer lives.
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References:
1. Holt-Lunstad J, Smith TB, Layton JB (2010) Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review. PLoS Med 7(7): e1000316. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316
2. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education; Health and Medicine Division; Board on Behavioral, Cognitive, and Sensory Sciences; Board on Health Sciences Policy; Committee on the Health and Medical Dimensions of Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults. Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities for the Health Care System. National Academies Press (US), 27 February 2020. doi:10.17226/25663
3. Uchino, Bert N. “Social support and health: a review of physiological processes potentially underlying links to disease outcomes.” Journal of behavioral medicine vol. 29,4 (2006): 377-87. doi:10.1007/s10865-006-9056-5
4. Petitte, Trisha et al. “A Systematic Review of Loneliness and Common Chronic Physical Conditions in Adults.” The open psychology journal vol. 8,Suppl 2 (2015): 113-132. doi:10.2174/1874350101508010113
