World's oldest living man, João M Neto, reveals 5 longevity secrets; ‘There are no men….’

The world's oldest living man João Marinho Neto, recently turned 113, and rang in his big day with friends and family, and a big cake! Neto, who hails from Brazil, demonstrates through his life, how to achieve longevity while maintaining excellent health. Neto, who has lived for more than a decade in this world, has experienced a century of historical transformation while keeping his body and mind strong, through basic, yet effective methods. The key to his longevity became evident through his commitment to physical exercise, natural connection and his dedication to family. People who want to live longer and enhance their life quality, should learn from these valuable life lessons….

Physical activity throughout his life has directly contributed to Neto's remarkable longevity. The agricultural work he performed during his lifetime, required him to stay active while allowing him to maintain contact with nature. Physical exercise during aging, helps people preserve their muscle power and heart function and brain clarity. Research on supercentenarians demonstrates that daily physical activity through work, exercise or household responsibilities, leads to longer life expectancy. Physical activity protects people from developing chronic diseases which include heart disease and diabetes, that reduce life expectancy. The consistent physical work Neto performed throughout his life demonstrates that any level of physical activity supports aging healthily.

The rural environment of his childhood, taught Neto to appreciate nature and basic living practices. Natural environments provide people with clean air, sunlight and serene settings which create conditions for excellent health. Research indicates that outdoor activities decrease stress levels and create better moods, which help people live longer. People who reside in natural settings tend to eat fresh local foods and participate in more physical activities. The connection Neto made with nature through farming and outdoor activities, proved essential for his extended and healthy life span.

João’s secret to a long life, according to him and shared with Guinness, is being surrounded by loved ones. “There are no men older than me, just women!” he happily says, talking about the importance of family in his life. Today, João enjoys the company of a large family: six living children, 22 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. People who experience love and support from others while being useful to them experience less stress, and maintain better mental clarity. The long life of Neto demonstrates that caring for relationships and devoting time to family and social activities, creates a positive impact on both physical and mental health which leads to additional years of life.

Born in 1912 in Maranguape, Ceará, Brazil, João grew up in a farming family and started helping his father in the fields at just four years old. This active rural lifestyle, combined with wholesome food, played a significant role in fostering his health and longevity. Studies demonstrate that eating unprocessed natural foods decreases the chances of developing heart disease, diabetes and other age-related health problems. People who live the longest years of their lives tend to eat foods that are straightforward and wholesome, instead of following complicated dietary restrictions.

The most vital lesson Neto teaches us is to live a purposeful existence, with a positive mindset. Research indicates that supercentenarians share three common characteristics which include goal-oriented behavior and meaningful work and positive life perspectives. People who maintain a positive outlook in life, experience reduced stress impact and better recovery from health problems. The way Neto lived his life demonstrates that discovering life's meaning and staying mentally active and finding happiness, leads to a long and satisfying life.