Healthy Lifestyles Trumps Genetics: Study Shows
New research published in the medical journal BMJ has shown that lifestyle factors are more important than genetics when it comes to increasing longevity. The study tracked the health of 353,742 adults from 2006 to 2010 through 2021 and found that individuals with unhealthy lifestyles had a 78% higher risk of premature death compared to those living healthy lives. Even people with genes related to shorter lifespans were still at a higher risk of early death if they did not adopt a healthy lifestyle.
The study, which was conducted on participants of European descent, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to minimize the impact of genes on longevity. Dr. Liz Williams, an expert in the field, emphasizes this point and encourages individuals to prioritize good sleep, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking.
Research has shown that these lifestyle choices can significantly improve overall health and increase lifespan. In fact, individuals with the short lifespan gene who followed a healthy lifestyle could live 5.22 years longer than those who did not adopt these habits.
In conclusion, prioritizing good sleep, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking are crucial for increasing longevity. These lifestyle choices can help individuals not only live longer but also maintain their health and vitality over the years.
