Many parents remember their grandparents who lived to be 90 or 100 years old, compared to today when life expectancy is shorter due to life pressures and unhealthy lifestyles. But recent research raises a crucial question: Is longevity hardwired into our genes? Or does our lifestyle play the biggest role?
scientific research
The journal Science has published a study showing that genetic factors may contribute up to 50% to determining a person’s life expectancy, reigniting debate about the extent of genetic influence compared to lifestyle.
Genetic influence is smaller than expected
Dr Blonda MS, senior consultant in internal medicine at Aster CMI Hospital in Bangalore, said the influence of genes may be smaller as most studies show that genetic factors control only 20% to 30% of life expectancy. He added that genes determine the body’s predisposition to disease and response to stress, but are not the determining factor.
Lifestyle…the most important factor
Blonda confirmed that everyday factors make up 70% to 80% of the determinants of longevity. Proper nutrition, physical activity, regular sleep, stress management, health care, and social relationships. “Even people with a family history of chronic disease can extend their lives by making healthy lifestyle choices,” she said.
Important factors for extending lifespan
In addition to genes, the influence of the following life factors is significant:
Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly.
Get enough sleep and manage your psychological stress.
Quit smoking and cut down on alcohol.
Maintain a healthy weight and get regular health checkups.
Take care of your mental health and build strong social relationships.
Live in a clean and safe environment while receiving appropriate medical care.
Can lifestyle beat genes?
Emphasizing that daily healthy choices can reduce the effects of genetic predisposition, Dr. Blonda says, “Just because you have a genetic predisposition doesn’t necessarily mean you will get a disease. Proper nutrition, physical activity, quality sleep, managing chronic diseases…all reduce genetic risk.”
Practical and long-term advice
Increase your intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Reduce processed and saturated fat foods.
Do physical activity regularly.
Get a good, deep sleep.
Manage stress through meditation and hobbies.
Quit smoking and cut down on alcohol.
Conduct regular health checkups.
Maintain positive social relationships and continued mental activity.
Genes may determine about half of a person’s lifespan, but the majority of experts confirm that a healthy, balanced lifestyle is the decisive factor and may allow us to overcome genetic influences and make new choices every day to live healthier and longer.
