The Secrets to Long Life and Good Teeth
Two recent studies have yielded some interesting data regarding the link between money and your health. The first study released by the National Academy of Sciences suggests that during times of economic turmoil, overall life expectancy increases. The study, which focused on the general mortality rate during the Great Depression, found that life expectancy increased from 57.1 years in 1929 to 63.3 years in 1933 (compared to today’s 77.7). Similar results were found when looking at some of the economic downturns of the 1980s and 1990s. During these times researchers found that the major causes of death – including heart disease, tuberculosis, and kidney disease – all declined during recessions.

The second study released by the Journal of Periodontology linked poor oral health to financial stress. Researchers found that during economic downturns, overall oral health tended to decline. However, this decline was specifically linked to those who dealt with their financial concerns in a passive and avoidant way rather than an active and problem-focused way.

Both of these studies acknowledge that their research results shouldn’t be over generalized and that both of these issues are multi-faceted but this data does allow us to make some general observations which might just do us some good to ponder.

First, as much as we hate to admit it, challenges strengthen us. When gas is expensive and money is tight we walk more, eat out less, and support each other more. Recessions can help us to experience the benefits of exercise, healthier eating, and the reflection and joy that come from connecting with others.

Second, facing our troubles head-on makes us healthier. If we deal with our problems by giving up, grinding our teeth, and eating lots of sugar we’re neglecting good self care and we’ll experience poor health. If on the other hand we adopt an optimistic can-do attitude we recognize that the old cliché is true – challenges are opportunities just waiting to be taken.

Today would be a great day to celebrate what this recession is teaching us by taking a long walk with a friend…
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