06-Feb-2011

Live Long and Prosper

Overcoming Your Heredity

Many current studies confirm that you do not have to suffer from the same illnesses as your parents and grandparents. The most common diseases people die from are cancer, heart disease, diabetes and respiratory conditions. Records from the Seventh Day Adventists reveal that individuals who avoid alcohol, cigarettes and meat live longer despite their family histories. On the other hand, the Journal of Genealogy notes that obesity, poor nutritional habits, smoking, lack of exercise and excessive alcohol consumption send people down a path toward premature death despite “good” genes or long-lived parents or grandparents.

Generally speaking you can “overcome” certain genetic predispositions by eating well, moving well and thinking well. You don't have to be perfect— if you exercise, enjoy a healthy diet and cultivate a positive attitude (including meditation and yoga), chances are you'll overcome many of your genetic tendencies. It pays to live a healthy lifestyle, no matter what your DNA says. You just might help the next generation live longer too!

Recommended Read: The Roadmap to 100: The Breakthrough Science of Living a Long and Healthy Life by Walter M. Bortz MD