Carbohydrates provide health benefits in their whole, unprocessed form, including energy, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A sustainable lower-carb diet eliminates refined carbs in favor of whole carbs.

The effects of obesity can lead to an increased risk of chronic diseases; the most-studied links are with type 2 diabetes, heart disease, dementia, some cancers, and accelerated aging. Reduce the effects of obesity by exercising more, eating more plants, and eating less added sugar and processed foods.

Healthspan differs from lifespan in that it measures years lived healthfully without developing chronic disease. You can increase healthspan by eating a healthy diet with dark leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables, regularly exercising, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol consumption.

Getting the right amount of sunlight exposure can improve vitamin D deficiencies. You need adequate vitamin D levels to help reduce your risk of getting one or more of the five conditions that define metabolic syndrome. Learn how sunlight and supplementation can help protect your health.