A groundbreaking study has revealed that following a healthy lifestyle could potentially add five years to your life, even if you are genetically predisposed to an early death. The research, conducted by Dr Zilong Bian and his team at Zhejiang University in China, found that factors such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and abstaining from smoking could reduce the risk of premature death by up to 62 percent.
The study, published in the journal BMJ Evidence Based Medicine, followed 353,742 participants from the UK Biobank for an average of 13 years. During this time, 24,239 deaths occurred, allowing researchers to analyze the impact of lifestyle choices on genetic predisposition to early mortality.
Participants were divided into three categories based on their genetic lifespan potential: long, intermediate, and short. They were also assessed based on their lifestyle scores, which ranged from favorable to unfavorable. By using polygenic risk scores to determine genetic predisposition to a shorter or longer life, researchers were able to quantify the impact of lifestyle choices on overall life expectancy.
The results showed that individuals with a high genetic risk of premature death had a 21 percent increased chance of early mortality compared to those with a low genetic risk, regardless of their lifestyle choices. On the other hand, those with unhealthy lifestyles had a 78 percent higher risk of early death, irrespective of their genetic predisposition.
The study also highlighted the importance of the “optimal lifestyle combination” for longevity, which includes never smoking, engaging in regular physical activity, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a healthy diet. Following these four key lifestyle factors was associated with a significant increase in life expectancy, even for individuals with a high genetic risk of early death.
Matt Lambert, a senior health information officer at the World Cancer Research Fund, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating that despite genetic factors, adopting a healthy lifestyle can have a profound impact on longevity. He pointed out that making healthy changes may seem daunting, but resources like the fund’s online healthy living program, Activ8, can provide guidance and support.
Overall, the study underscores the powerful influence of lifestyle choices on life expectancy, regardless of genetic predisposition. By prioritizing behaviors such as regular exercise, a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of premature death and potentially add years to their lives.
In conclusion, the research offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between genetics and lifestyle factors in determining longevity. By making informed choices and prioritizing health and wellness, individuals can take control of their future and increase their chances of living a longer, healthier life.