Sami Mansfield: Did you know there’s a decade-long difference between lifespan and healthspan
Sami Mansfield, the founder of Cancer Wellness for Life, posted on LinkedIn about recent paper by Lars T. Fadnes et al., titled “Life expectancy can increase by up to 10 years following sustained shifts towards healthier diets in the United Kingdom” published on Nature Food.
Authors: Lars T. Fadnes, Carlos Celis-Morales, Jan-Magnus Økland, Solange Parra-Soto, Katherine M. Livingstone, Frederick K. Ho, Jill P. Pell, Rajiv Balakrishna, Elaheh Javadi Arjmand, Kjell Arne Johansson, Øystein A. Haaland, John C. Mathers
“Did you know there’s often a decade-long difference between how long we live (lifespan) and how well we live (healthspan)?
For many, the last years of life are marked by illness and reduced quality of life. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
What if you could add 10 years to both your lifespan and healthspan just by changing what’s on your plate?
Groundbreaking research published in Nature Food reveals that adopting healthier eating habits can dramatically increase life expectancy:
– Shifting from an unhealthy diet to a longevity-focused diet could add up to 10.8 years for men and 10.4 years for women.
– Even following the UK’s Eatwell Guide can bring 8+ additional years of life.
Yes I live in the United States and our food supply is in fact different, but we CAN make better choices! I personally using this app – it’s completely free!
The key?
More whole grains, nuts, and fruits.
Less processed meat and sugary beverages
What diet is best? The WHOLE foods one! This can include animal products if desired.
Because my LOVEs implementation, what DO you do?
1. Fuel your body wisely Start adding one unprocessed food to your meals daily. Small shifts lead to big gains.
2. Build strength for the long run: Incorporate resistance training into your routine—your muscles and bones will thank you.
3. Move beyond the mat: Pair exercise with stress management techniques like mindfulness, journaling, or even a simple daily walk.
4. Prioritize sleep: Sleep is a cornerstone of health. Make it non-negotiable.
5. Commit to a lifestyle, not a quick fix: Combine these habits to create a sustainable, healthier you.
This isn’t just about living longer—it’s about thriving with better health, energy, and vitality.
The takeaway?
Each small step counts. Whether it’s a handful of nuts, a quick resistance workout, or taking five minutes to breathe and unwind—these changes add up to a healthier, happier life.
What’s one change you’ve made (or want to make) for better health? Let’s inspire each other!
P.S. Food is not just fuel—it’s our most powerful ally in health and longevity. If you found this post valuable, feel free to share it!”
Sami (Papacek) Mansfield is the founder of Cancer Wellness for Life. She’s been a certified cancer exercise specialist since 2003 and has dedicated her career to implementing evidence-based lifestyle education, resources and tools into cancer care for both the patients and the providers. She is also a Chair of Cancer Member Interest Group, at the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and Breast Cancer Taskforce Co-Chair at Colorado Cancer Coalition.
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