As we age, we all wonder what we can do to stay healthy and youthful for as long as possible. Professor Norman Lazarus, a leading longevity expert from the UK, has unlocked the secrets to maintaining a youthful body and mind—even well into our 80s.

Lazarus, now 84, has the physical fitness and immune system of someone in their 20s, defying conventional expectations of aging. He shares his secrets and reveals how we can all enjoy a healthier, more active life as we grow older.

From Overweight to Fit: A Life-Changing Decision

Lazarus wasn't always in great shape. In his 50s, he struggled with weight issues, lacked exercise, and had an average physical condition. Like many people who don't exercise and are overweight in middle age, Lazarus faced the risk of developing age-related diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and heart problems—conditions that often lead to a life dependent on medications.

One day, while having lunch with his wife, Lazarus looked down at his belly and realized that his lifestyle had to change. That moment sparked a complete shift. From then on, he focused on weight loss and regular exercise.

Now, more than 30 years later, Lazarus remains active as a professor at King's College London. He writes books, conducts research, and, most importantly, has no need for any medication or age-related diseases. He believes that anyone can take control of their aging process—not by blaming genes or bad luck, but by how we manage our middle age and retirement years.

Prevention is Key: Eat Less, Move More, Stay Active

Lazarus emphasizes three essential habits for staying young: eat less, exercise more, and keep your brain active. These principles may sound familiar, but the key to longevity lies in consistent self-discipline and sticking to these habits over the years. Lazarus advises against falling for trendy diets. Instead, the key to weight loss is simply to eat less. He personally restricts his daily calorie intake to 1,800 calories and avoids snacking.

Exercise is another cornerstone of Lazarus's approach to health. For him, exercise is not a chore, but a fun and enjoyable part of life. He believes that physical activity is a "magic cure" for preventing both physical and mental decline. Regular exercise improves circulation, benefits muscles and lungs, boosts immunity, enhances the hormonal system, lowers cholesterol, and helps optimize the function of vital body systems.

Through consistent cycling, Lazarus and his fellow cyclists in their 80s have immune systems comparable to those of young adults, and their body fat percentage is similar to that of teenagers. They remain incredibly healthy.

The Science of Exercise: More Than Just Weight Loss

Lazarus stresses that exercise should not be viewed as a quick fix for weight loss. After 35 years of research, he explains that the amount of calories burned during casual exercise is insignificant in terms of weight reduction. For example, if you work out three times a week and burn 300 calories per session, it would take many years to notice a significant change in weight—unless you're a professional athlete.

Instead, Lazarus encourages us to think of exercise as something that enhances our overall health, not just as a tool for weight loss. Exercise can improve every system in the body, down to the cellular and hormonal level. He suggests we engage in any physical activity that gets our heart rate up and leaves us slightly sweaty—whether it's a brisk walk, cycling, or another enjoyable form of exercise. The key is to do it regularly.

Healthy Diet: The Foundation of Longevity

While exercise is crucial, Lazarus also highlights the importance of a balanced diet. His daily meals consist of healthy foods that nourish the body without excess calories. For breakfast, he enjoys oatmeal, followed by whole grain bread with cheese for lunch, and chicken, fish, and naturally grown vegetables for dinner. He avoids sweets and adult beverages. By sticking to a controlled diet and exercising regularly, Lazarus maintains a youthful, healthy lifestyle even in his 80s.

The Power of Prevention: Take Control Now

Lazarus's story is a wake-up call for all of us. He believes that aging-related diseases are not inevitable, and we can take control of our health by making small changes today. Whether it's losing weight, getting regular exercise, or eating healthier, we hold the power to shape our future well-being. The important question is: can we commit to this lifestyle and make it a part of our daily routine?

Lykkers, let's take action now to secure a healthier, longer future. By incorporating simple habits into our daily lives, we can all enjoy the benefits of a youthful body and mind—no matter how old we are. What's one thing you can do today to improve your health for the long term?