Maybe you have a family history of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, or osteoarthritis.
So you think to yourself, “Since {insert disease} is in my family’s genetics, I’m destined to get it as well. What’s the point in taking better care of myself if it’s in my genes?”
What you need to know is that researchers have discovered our genes don’t entirely account for our health and risk of disease. In fact, recent studies suggest that over 75% of the risk of chronic disease is driven by lifestyle factors.
Our diet, lifestyle, and behavior are far more important determinants of our health than our genes. Studies have shown that engaging in five key health behaviors can extend our lifespan by almost 15 years. These key health behaviors include:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting enough exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Not smoking
- Not drinking excessively
Do you know what this means?
It means WE are in the driver’s seat when it comes to not only OUR health, but also the health of future generations.
This also means we need to take responsibility for our health by consistently engaging in health-promoting behaviors.
Where do you have room for improvement?
- Can you add in some more fresh vegetables to your diet?
- Can you take a short walk after work?
- Can you investigate healthy ways to reduce your weight if you’re overweight?
- Can you look into ways to stop smoking?
- Can you find other ways to unwind than with too much alcohol?
Remember, your health is in your hands.
-Caitlin Russell MS RDN CLT
Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash
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