Skip to main content

Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Articles

Beyond protein: 6 other nutrients that help prevent muscle loss

While protein is essential to help prevent muscle loss as you age, other nutrients matter, too. Carbohydrates, magnesium, iron, omega-3 fats, and vitamin D work together to support muscle function and prevent muscle breakdown. Getting enough water is also essential for muscle performance and function.

Even small changes in physical activity may boost longevity

A large 2026 study estimated that adding just five minutes a day of moderate to vigorous activity might prevent up to 10% of deaths during an eight-year period. Sitting for 30 minutes or less might prevent up to 7% of deaths.

Cosmetic injections more likely to produce side effects in people with certain conditions

A 2025 study suggested that people with certain chronic conditions were more likely to experience side effects after cosmetic injections with botulinum toxin (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin).

Why do my fingers and ankles swell by the end of the day?

Edema is swelling caused by fluid trapped in body tissues. It can occur in anyone, but it’s more common in older adults. A variety of factors contribute to mild edema, including weakened valves in veins, gravity, inactivity, arthritis, and certain medications.

What is CBT-i?

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-i) identifies and challenges thoughts about sleep that make it more difficult, eradicates bedroom activities other than sleep and sex, limits the time spent in bed to increase the drive to sleep, and teaches relaxation techniques.

5 skills teens need in life - and how to encourage them

All parents want their children to be happy and able to successfully navigate life's challenges. Five core skills form a great foundation, and while parents can and should support young children in building these skills, encouraging teens to reinforce and refine their skills is important.

Stretching studios: Do you need what they offer?

One trend in the world of fitness is the stretching studio, providing assisted stretching sessions marketed as a way to improve flexibility and ease chronic pain. But those looking to boost their overall health are more likely to benefit from regular, moderate physical activity, and do their stretching at home.

5 simple ways to improve gut health

Gut health plays a bigger role in overall well-being than many people realize, affecting digestion, mood, and immunity. Simple daily choices around food, movement, sleep, stress, and hydration can support a healthier, more resilient gut.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE 32-page gift worth $29.95.

PLUS, don’t miss out on your 25% off promo code.

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle—You’ll discover powerful, research- backed strategies for health longevity drawn from Harvard Medical School experts—ways to eat for a longer life, build strength and flexibility to stay independent, protect your bones, heart, and brain as you age, and even cultivate the habits linked with “super-agers” who stay sharp and active well into their 80s and 90s—all delivered to your email box FREE.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of Living Longer, Living Well!.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of Living Longer, Living Well.