As adults, we are constantly bombarded with messages that we need more physical activity. It seems like everywhere we turn, there is another study telling us that being inactive is bad for our health. And now, a new study has found that low physical activity increases the risk of death, even in people who have strong longevity genes.
So, what does this mean for us? Should we all start running marathons? Probably not. But it is important to be aware of how much activity we need and to try to make time for some form of exercise every day. Even something as simple as a brisk walk can make a big difference.
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Much previous research has shown how low physical activity and greater time spent sitting are associated with a higher risk of death. So, this information is nothing new. However, with this new study, researchers are questioning if this outcome changes if a person is genetically predisposed.
“The goal of this research was to understand whether associations between physical activity and sedentary time with death varied based on different levels of genetic predisposition for longevity,” said lead author Alexander Posis, M.P.H.
The study was part of the Women’s Health Initiative Objective Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health Study (OPACH), which measured the physical activity of 5,446 women in the United States who were 63 and older. All participants were followed through 2020 to determine mortality. To measure physical activity and sedentary time, all participants wore a research-grade accelerometer for up to seven days.
The study found that participants who had higher levels of physical activity and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity had a lower risk of death. Higher sedentary time was associated with a higher risk of mortality. Among participants who were genetically predisposed to longevity, the associations were consistent.
Keeping the Body Healthy
These findings help show that longer time spent engaging in physical activity of any intensity can reduce the risk of disease and premature death, even in people who are predisposed to longevity. However, physical activity is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to keeping excellent overall general health. Diet is also vital for helping keep the body strong and healthy, including heart health and brain function.
To help ensure your diet is complete, 65+ Superfood Essentials is an excellent addition to a daily supplement regime. This breakthrough formula is a great way to support and promote cardiovascular and overall health. It contains Capros®, a patented and clinically studied Indian gooseberry extract that has been found to absorb free radicals and provide cascading antioxidants. Acai berry (the powerful natural antioxidant known to support total health) and resveratrol, a premier anti-aging ingredient, are also found in this formulation that can help ensure proper nutrients and vitamins that are essential as you age.
Sarah began her interest in nutritional healing at an early age. After going through health problems and becoming frustrated with the conventional ways doctors wanted to treat her illness (which were not working), she took it upon herself to find alternative treatments. This led her to revolutionize her own diet to help her get healthier and tackle her health problems. She began treating her illness by living a more balanced lifestyle through healthy food choices, exercise and other alternative medicine such as meditation. This total positive lifestyle change led her to earn a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England. Today, Sarah enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. Also, passionate about following her dreams in life, Sarah moved to France and lived in Paris for over 5 years where she earned a certification in beadwork and embroidery from Lesage (an atelier owned by Chanel). She then went on to be a familiar face sitting front row and reporting from Paris Fashion Week. Sarah continues to practice some of the cultural ways of life she learned while in Europe. They enjoy their food, and take the time to relax and enjoy many of life’s little moments. These are life lessons she is glad to have brought back home with her.
