Stay young. 7 Life Tips from Dr. Jimmy Mohamed

It is possible to slow down our biological aging to stay young as long as possible. Far from the promise of eternal youth, it is actually the implementation of certain daily habits to ensure a longer and healthier life. Here’s what general practitioner Jimmy Mohammed, who also hosts the show, wishes us Health magazine on France 5 and very active on social networks. In his new book Zero restrictions on staying young (1), which was published by Flammarion on February 7, the doctor presents 35 tips for longevity. We have selected 7 of them.

Before going into the details, the specialist first reminds us of the 4 pillars of “staying young”: regular physical activity, eating a healthy and varied diet, developing social connections and taking care of your health, even when you are not sick. “Don’t wait until things get worse to consult, early diagnosis will most often allow early treatment,” says the doctor.

No lies

“Our brain has an internal biological clock, which should be maintained, even cherished,” says the doctor. Otherwise. We create stress for the body and affect our metabolism. To respect this clock, it’s good to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. So it is delusional to think that you can make up for the lack of sleep during the week on Saturdays and Sundays. “Lack of sleep does not have a serious effect on our health,” he warns. And the biological and metabolic effects of sleep debt will always be felt, with or without the lie.

To drink coffee

The substance is an excellent ally for cardiovascular health, the doctor assures. Cardiovascular studies have demonstrated the protective benefits of caffeine and its anti-inflammatory effects. “Consumption of coffee allows you to have more elastic blood vessels, more flexible and less rigid arteries,” explains Jimmy Mohamed. Thus, it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

However, the expert warns about the disruptive effect of alcohol on our sleep. Everyone has to decide the time after which they can no longer use it, risking them falling asleep the same evening.

Ventilate

Our indoor ventilation, whether in the office or at home, is the best barrier to warding off colds, flu, or other viruses and germs. “The vast majority of respiratory viruses are transmitted by large droplets, such as spitting,” emphasizes the specialist. Diseases are also transmitted through aerosols. clouds of particles that we emit through simple breathing, we learn in the book. “Ventilation helps disperse these clouds and reduces the risk of transmission of respiratory infections,” he says.

Strengthen your muscles

“We will be healthier and live longer if our muscle mass is high,” assures Jimmy Mohamed. In addition to the function of mobility, they (muscles) play a crucial role in respiratory and cardiac functions. Leg muscles, which are the most powerful in our body, are also particularly useful for our brain, neurologist Emily Steinbach has already informed us in a previous article. “The more muscle mass they have, the more they increase blood flow, bring oxygen to the brain and promote neuroplasticity,” he said.

Living Scandinavian style

To relax, but also to improve your heart health, the doctor recommends exposing your body to the heat of the sauna and the cold of the bath at 14 degrees, like the Finns. In addition to its relaxing benefits, the sauna improves “blood pressure, arterial flexibility, blood microcirculation and cardiac output,” thus reducing the risk of “cardiovascular disease,” he explains. In turn, an ice bath will “reduce inflammation in addition to toxins.” And the good news is that you can experience it in the shower.

Get wrapped up

Let’s embrace our loved ones to live longer and healthier lives. A recommendation from a doctor can make you smile. And yet. Physical contact helps “produce oxytocin, the bonding and social bonding hormone, guaranteeing a longer and healthier life,” says Dr. Mohamed. In practice, a hug should last at least 5 to 10 seconds to ensure this beneficial effect.

Make love

Sexuality, the quality of sleep? The researchers interviewed men and women between the ages of 25 and 49. “75% of respondents reported that they slept better after orgasm or intercourse shortly before bedtime, and the majority of them reported improved sleep quality,” says Jimmy Mohamed. For comparison, let’s note that the use of sleeping pills improved their sleep in only 66% of them. For better sleep, the doctor recommends focusing on orgasm, not alcohol or sleeping pills. The advantage: if you’re alone, or if your partner is unavailable, gesturing works just as well.

For our health, the doctor invites us to consider our libido. “Libido fluctuations are normal, but significant or persistent changes in sexual desire can sometimes indicate health problems, whether physical or psychological,” warns the doctor. Depression, menopause, hormonal pathologies… In case of the slightest doubt, it is always better to consult a practitioner.

(1) Zero restrictions on staying youngBy Dr Jimmy Mohamed, published by Éditions Flammarion, 280 pages, €19.