A recent study published in the medical journal BMJ has shown that healthy lifestyle choices have a significant impact on longevity, regardless of genetics. The study tracked the health of 353,742 adults of European descent from 2006 to 2010 through 2021 to determine whether genes or lifestyle had a greater influence on longevity.
The results showed that individuals with unhealthy lifestyles had a 78% higher risk of premature death compared to those living healthy lives, regardless of their genetic predisposition. People with genes related to shorter lifespans were still 21% more likely to die early, but adopting a healthy lifestyle reduced this risk by 62%. In fact, individuals with the short lifespan gene who followed a healthy lifestyle could live 5.22 years longer than those who did not.
According to Dr. Liz Williams, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for minimizing the impact of genes on longevity. A combination of factors such as no smoking, regular exercise, good sleep, and a balanced diet can significantly improve overall health and increase lifespan. While the study focused on people of European descent, the results highlight the importance of healthy lifestyle habits in promoting longevity for all individuals.
In conclusion, prioritizing good sleep, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking are crucial for increasing longevity and reducing the risk of premature death. These lifestyle choices can help individuals maintain their health and vitality over the years and improve overall well-being.