Here are the habits to live up to 5 years longer

Genetic heritage is important for longevity, but lifestyle is also fundamental. Indeed, according to a new study it would be even more decisive and could “correct” any hereditary problems by doing so live up to 5 years longer. This is stated by international research published in the journal BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine.

Lifestyles that can “correct” genetics

The research involved over 350 thousand people, classifying them on the basis of their genetic profile and lifestyle. The first discovery the researchers came to is that Habits have a greater impact on life expectancy than genetics: People with harmful lifestyles had a 78% higher risk of premature death (before age 75) than those with healthy lifestyles. Genetics, on the other hand, only increases the chances of early death by 21%.

What are the healthy lifestyles to live longer? Don’t smoke, avoid alcohol, have a correct diet, do physical activity.

Up to 5 more years of life

What is more important, however, is that when a person with bad genetics adheres to healthy lifestyles their risk is reduced by 54%. Translated into years, this equates to 5.2 years of life gained.

What happens if we have bad habits and a negative genetic profile

Things become considerably complicated when a person with a negative genetic profile has unhealthy lifestyles: in this case the risk of dying before turning 75 is more than double.

The pandemic has had a “destructive” impact on lifestyles

“Public health policies to promote healthy lifestyles could be a powerful complement to healthcare and lessen the impact of genetic factors on human lifespan,” the researchers write. In the same hours in which the study was published, another research – in this case conducted by the European Office of the WHO – confirmed that, as regards lifestyles, the pandemic had a destructive effect, especially in children. Research has shown that, during the pandemic, the time spent watching TV, using video games or social media increased for 35% of children aged 7-9; for 28% the time spent in outdoor activities was reduced.

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Read the full article at
The Gazzettino