Nine Ways to Live Longer

Sure, diet and exercise keep you healthy. And yes, smiling will extend your life. But the secrets of aging aren't all so straightforward. Here, courtesy of The Week, are 9 unusual ways to live longer:

• Win the Nobel Prize: Winners live 1.4 years longer than those who were nominated. If you aren't a genius, that's OK. Just try to make people like you; social status is good for your health.
• Live through a recession: In the 20th century, recessions led to longer lifespans, as people gave up expensive vices and fewer people died in workplace and car accidents.

• Gain some weight: Researchers in Portland found that those who are slightly overweight live longer. Just think of that extra padding as protection for your old age.
• ...On your rear end: About that padding—turns out it's best if the weight you gain is on your hips and thighs. These areas are particularly good at absorbing harmful fatty acids, studies show.

Click here for more surprising secrets of longevity and here for 9 'innocent' habits that make you old.
(More longevity stories.)