In the pursuit of a longer and healthier life, many individuals are turning to personalized medicine to maintain their health and reduce their biological age. However, recent research published in the medical journal BMJ suggests that lifestyle factors may have a greater influence on longevity than 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 impact 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 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.
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, 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. These lifestyle choices can help individuals not only live longer but also maintain their health and vitality over the years. By making these simple changes in their daily routines