The keys to achieving a long and healthy life are simple: avoiding smoking, staying active, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet. These habits are essential for improving health and increasing lifespan, regardless of genetics. With global life expectancy on the rise, many people are focused on maintaining their health and reducing their biological age through personalized medicine.
A recent study published in the medical journal BMJ compared the impact of genes and lifestyle on longevity for the first time. The research tracked the health of 353,742 adults from 2006 to 2010 through 2021 to determine whether genes or lifestyle had a greater influence on longevity. Participants were classified based on their genetic tendencies and healthy lifestyle behaviors such as not smoking, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, maintaining a fit body shape, and consuming alcohol in moderation.
The study found 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 if they did not adopt a healthy lifestyle. In fact, individuals with the short lifespan gene who followed a healthy lifestyle could live up to 5 years longer than those who did not adopt such habits.
Experts like Dr. Liz Williams emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to minimize 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, its findings highlight the importance of healthy lifestyle habits in promoting longevity for everyone.
In conclusion, prioritizing good sleep hygiene, regular exercise routines, balanced diets free from harmful substances like tobacco are crucial for extending life expectancy while also improving quality of life over time. By adopting these simple habits today