Edith Hejberg
Dr Evan Levine, a New York-based heart specialist, says certain habits could cut your life short if left unchecked. He’s gone viral on TikTok with his straightforward message: quit these five behaviors now for a healthier future.
Dr Evan Levine, a New York-based heart specialist, says certain habits could cut your life short if left unchecked. He’s gone viral on TikTok with his straightforward message: quit these five behaviors now for a healthier future.
Why Turning 40 Is a Wake-Up Call for Your Health
With average UK life expectancy currently at 78.6 years for men and 82.6 for women,
Dr Levine believes many people can push beyond those numbers by making better choices early on. “It’s never too late,” he says, but your 40s are the ideal time to take control.
1. Smoking: The Most Urgent Habit to Break
Dr Levine doesn’t mince words, if you smoke, quit. “Most of the satisfaction from smoking happens early in adulthood,” he explains.
“You can reverse many of its effects, but don’t wait until your 60s.” Smoking remains the biggest preventable cause of death in England, responsible for over 80,000 lives lost annually, according to the NHS.
2. Cut Back on Alcohol
Next on the list is alcohol. Even moderate drinking can increase your risk of cancer, heart disease, and atrial fibrillation, especially in women.
“If you’re still drinking like you did in your twenties, it’s time to stop,” Dr Levine says. Exceeding one drink a day may do more damage than you think.
3. Say No to Recreational Drugs
“Marijuana is bad news for your brain,” Dr Levine cautions. He links regular use to memory loss and a heightened risk of dementia in later years.
He’s even more blunt about harder drugs like cocaine: “Your heart’s not as young as it used to be, that next hit could be your last.”
4. Don’t Overdo the Exercise
Surprisingly, too much exercise can also be harmful. “Long-distance running is a gold mine for orthopaedic surgeons,” Levine says.
Excessive pounding on joints can lead to arthritis and even heart issues like atrial fibrillation. He recommends cutting back on intense routines and embracing lower-impact alternatives.
5. Junk Food: Your Body Can’t Handle It Like It Used To
“Sorry, but you’re 40 now, stop eating whatever you want,” says Dr Levine.
The solution? Don’t overthink it. Just start cutting out fast food, sugary drinks, and highly processed snacks. A little discipline now can pay off big down the line.
Rewriting the Rules on Fitness After 40
While moderation is key, exercise is still essential. The NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly for adults aged 19 to 64.
But it’s not just about cardio, building strength, balance, and flexibility becomes even more crucial as you age.
Your Health Is a Long Game
“Your 40s will either make or break you,” Dr Levine warns. That’s why now is the time to invest in your future wellbeing.
By ditching these harmful habits, you can set yourself up for a strong, vibrant second half of life.
