(Newser)
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Sure, diet and exercise keep you healthy. And yes, smiling will extend your life. But the secrets of aging aren't all so straightforward. Here, courtesy of The Week, are 9 unusual ways to live longer:
- Win the Nobel Prize: Winners live 1.4 years longer than those who were nominated. If you aren't a genius, that's OK. Just try to make people like you; social status is good for your health.
- Live through a recession: In the 20th century, recessions led to longer lifespans, as people gave up expensive vices and fewer people died in workplace and car accidents.
- Gain some weight: Researchers in Portland found that those who are slightly overweight live longer. Just think of that extra padding as protection for your old age.
- ...On your rear end: About that padding—turns out it's best if the weight you gain is on your hips and thighs. These areas are particularly good at absorbing harmful fatty acids, studies show.
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here for more surprising secrets of longevity and
here for 9 'innocent' habits that make you old.
