Building up your back muscles may help keep your spine feeling fine.

According to research, back exercises may help protect against spinal fractures. In one study, older women who regularly engaged in exercises aimed at strengthening their backs were significantly less likely to experience spinal fractures compared to women who did not perform the exercises.

RealAge Benefit: Strength training can make your RealAge 1 year younger.

Prostate Protection

Keeping a close eye on fat intake may help men reduce their risk of prostate cancer. In a recent university study, men who ate a low-fat meal appeared to have lower circulating levels of testosterone immediately after the meal, compared to when they ate a meal high in fat from animal sources. Chronically high levels of testosterone may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

RealAge Benefit: Eating a low-fat diet--and eating healthy unsaturated fats when you do eat fat--can make your RealAge as much as 6 years younger

Back Magic

If you want to keep your back healthy, make sure you keep your belly in shape.

A number of studies have revealed a correlation between chronic low back pain and weak abdominal muscles. To protect your back, be sure to strengthen all of the supporting muscles in your trunk, including your back, shoulder, abdominal, and hip muscles. A gentle stretching routine also can help keep your back strong and flexible.

RealAge Benefit: A physical activity program that builds stamina, strength, and flexibility can make your RealAge as much as 8.1 years younger.

Face Facts

If you're using makeup with a sun protection factor (SPF) to shield your face from the sun's damaging rays, you may still want to add a layer of sunscreen underneath your foundation.

A recent study revealed that facial foundations tend to migrate toward the lines of the face only a few hours after application, leaving certain areas unprotected. For maximum protection, either touch up your makeup every couple of hours or get additional protection by applying a sunscreen first.

RealAge Benefit: Safely getting enough sun can make your RealAge as much as 1.7 years younger

Foot Fault

Are you putting off caring for a minor foot ailment? If so, you could be treading down a path to bigger health hassles.

Even minor complaints, such as an ingrown toenail or a painful corn, can lead to more serious conditions, such as back or hip pain. In one study of older adults, foot problems were linked to a higher risk of falls and injuries. Keep your feet healthy by inspecting them daily, wearing comfortable shoes, and promptly reporting problems to your doctor.

RealAge Benefit: Actively patrolling your health can make your RealAge as much as 12 years younger.

A Nice Gesture

Do you want to build up your memory muscles? Gesturing while you talk may improve your recall.

In a recent study, people who gestured while explaining a math problem were better able to recall a previously learned list of words. Researchers speculate that gesturing when you talk may lighten your cognitive load so that your brain is free to perform other tasks, such as remembering a list.

RealAge Benefit: Becoming a lifelong learner can make your RealAge as much as 2.5 years younger.

Don't Delay

If you've got aching joints, taking care of them sooner rather than later will help keep your comfort levels high.

Research suggests that people with arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, will fare better by taking early action against their condition. If you've got aching joints, see your doctor for a diagnosis. Early treatment can help prevent or delay the progression of the disease.

RealAge Benefit: Actively patrolling your health can make your RealAge as much as 12 years younger.