A study on the Hunza people of the Himalayas found one of the secrets to their staggering longevity - the study claimed some live up to 140 - was a mainly plant-based diet rich in fruit, vegies and grains.Want to live to see triple figures? Try these tips. By Nicola ConvilleNicola Conville, specials editor for body+soul has a new blog with heaps of health and wellbeing information

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How to live to 100

Want to live to see triple figures? Try these tips. By Nicola Conville

• Keep moving A survey by the UnitedHealth Group in the US found that more than 50 per cent of centenarians exercise almost every day, with the majority citing walking as their favourite way of working out. Many also took part in yoga, tai chi, jogging, biking, tennis and even basketball.


• Watch your weight
  Even moderate obesity can shave up to three years off your life, according to a study from Oxford University which looked at 900,000 people worldwide. Severe obesity, which is classified as a BMI of over 40, could reduce life expectancy by a decade.


• Avoid smoking and drink in moderation According to a 2009 health report, the three factors which place most strain on the Australian medical system are obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use. However, as part of a healthy diet, a glass of red wine may be good for the heart.


• Less meat, more vegies A study on the Hunza people of the Himalayas found one of the secrets to their staggering longevity - the study claimed some live up to 140 - was a mainly plant-based diet rich in fruit, vegies and grains.


• Join a club People with strong social relationships have a 50 per cent higher chance of survival compared with those who don't, according to recent research from the US.


• Meditate Yoga breathing and meditation can enhance longevity, say Columbia University researchers. This may be because they help us deal with stress and ward off depression and anxiety.


• Take care of your teeth Dentist Dr Neil Hewson says indicators for a range of serious diseases that particularly affect older people, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, oral cancers and Alzheimer's, can often be detected by dentists during regular check-ups.


• Get just enough sleep University of California researchers found women who slept between five and six and a half hours each night had optimal survival rates. Less than five hours a night is not enough and eight hours may be too much