The Six Habits For Healthy Aging

Living better for longer. It's a hot topic among the rich and famous who are investing in aging research and trying to biohack their way to immortality. But for most of us, we just want to have a nice long life filled with quality years spent with family and friends. So, for the average person, what is the secret to healthy aging?

It is commonly accepted that there are five key behaviors that will increase not only the span of life, but the quality of our living years.

1. Don't smoke
2. Maintain a reasonable body-mass index
3. Eat a healthy diet
4. Exercise
5. Avoid excess alcohol

There is nothing on this list that would surprise the average person. These are the core behaviors that help combat the chronic diseases, like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, that plague a good portion of the population. But there is a sixth behavior that goes right along with these, yet isn't given the credit it deserves: brushing and flossing your teeth.

As I've discussed many times, the oral-systemic health connection is profound. Despite that, most people aren't aware of just how much oral hygiene impacts chronic disease. Bacteria found in the oral cavity, and the associated inflammation, are not only linked to the development of countless chronic diseases, but the acts of brushing – and especially flossing – have been shown to reduce the severity of many of these diseases.

I know what you're thinking. "Of course, he says that. He's a dentist and dentists always remind us to floss!" It's not just lip service. The fact is that all dentists and oral health researchers know oral health = overall health.

At Alumni Weekend a couple months ago, I was fortunate to connect with many of our alumni, representing classes that span the decades. What struck me was how well those who were 50 or more years out from their graduation were doing. They were vivacious, quick as whips, and there wasn't a cane or walker in sight. As educated, long-time health care providers, this group has likely practiced these healthy behaviors throughout their lives – including the underappreciated sixth behavior I've added to the list. Let me tell you that it showed in how full of life they were in their mid-70s and beyond.

I can only hope that I am in as good of shape at my 50th dental school reunion as our alumni. My strategy will be to practice the "Six Habits For Healthy Aging." They've served me pretty well so far. I'm looking forward to showing off the good health they've given me at my daughter's wedding this August. I can't wait to get on the dance floor and show those youngsters what this "old" man's got!

Michael S. Reddy, DMD, DMSc Dean, UCSF School of Dentistry Associate Vice Chancellor, Oral Health Affairs