A recent study published in the PLoS has highlighted four health factors that, when combined, can lead to a much longer life. There have been many studies highlighting the impact of smoking, exercise, alcohol consumption and an adequate intake of fruit and vegetables, but none that studied the synergistic effect of all four. These individual lifestyle factors have been well documented. The researchers wanted to see if small achievable lifestyle choices would make a measurable impact on health.

If you are a smoker, you have probably heard many people tell you to quit. If you are sedentary, you have probably heard that you should exercise. Most of us grew up with our mothers telling us to "eat our vegetables". Others have been told by our doctors that moderate alcohol consumption, particularly red wine, can benefit our health. If you want to lead a healthier lifestyle, it is about the combined everyday actions that lead to good health, not just one focused action. This study brings us one step closer to understanding that the synergistic effect of our everyday actions can lead to a longer, healthier life.