The desire to live a full century has always been common among people. Several decades ago, people routinely lived to be 100 years old or even older. However, rapidly changing dietary habits and daily routines have led people to fall prey to numerous illnesses by the age of 40. Cancer plays a major role in shortening people's lifespans. Nevertheless, making timely changes to one's routine can help individuals reach the milestone of living up to 100 years. To understand how to achieve such longevity, a special discussion was held with Dr. Anurag Srivastava, Director of the Subharti Institute of Cancer Management and Research in Meerut. Dr. Srivastava was visiting The Leela Palace in New Delhi to attend the launch event of Nari Shakti 3.0, organized by the Medivage Health Foundation, during which he shared these valuable insights.
Dietary adjustments and proper sleep cycles form the cornerstone of a healthy existence. Dr. Anurag Srivastava explained that anyone aspiring to reach the age of 100 free from illness should stop eating anything after 6:00 PM. Dinner should ideally be finished by 6:00 PM, after which people may consume water or juices, but heavy meals containing lentils, rice, or roti and vegetables at night should be avoided. It is recommended to sleep by 9:00 PM and wake up during the early morning hours before sunrise. Waking up during this auspicious time and exercising is beneficial, and the early morning hours are also considered the best time for reading and writing. Additionally, people should consume a pure vegetarian diet that lacks excessive onion, garlic, oil, or spices, while maintaining positive thoughts.
Mental pressure and anxiety are emerging as significant contributors to the rise of cancer today. Dr. Anurag Srivastava highlighted that taking excessive stress damages the body's DNA repair mechanism. When this happens, DNA cannot form properly, which acts as a catalyst for cancer development. Stress directly impacts and damages DNA, reducing the body's repair capabilities and making individuals vulnerable to cancer. Therefore, maintaining positive thoughts, avoiding stress, and keeping body weight under control are vital steps. Controlling weight prevents diabetes and significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer, which is currently most prevalent among women.
Dietary habits involving processed foods also require immediate attention. The renowned doctor pointed out that people frequently consume roasted red meat, which serves as a major factor behind cancer. Anyone who consumes red meat should stop eating it with immediate effect, as red meat is nothing less than poison for the body. Furthermore, junk food and fast food consumption should be substantially reduced to prevent contracting various illnesses by the age of 40. Increasing water intake as much as possible is equally essential. Adopting these disciplined habits ensures that a person can live not just 100 years, but even longer.
