Choose a longer, healthier life
You may appreciate -- or regret -- that some of your emotional traits are genetically inherited. Research indicates an OCEAN of attitudes can be passed down from generation to generation: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness -- and Neuroticism. But as we have said (a million times!) your physical health and longevity are not predetermined -- and a new study confirms just how much power you have over your well-being.
Researchers looked at data from almost half a million folks to figure out how influential family DNA is for 22 age-related diseases and premature death. Turns out, genetics explains less than 2% of your risk for those illnesses and death!
The study also identified 23 non-genetic influences on those diseases and premature death. Insufficient physical activity (start walking more today!) was associated with 17 diseases, such as cardiovascular problems and some cancers. Smoking was associated with 21 diseases (and you thought lung cancer was the only major risk). A poor diet lacking fiber and fresh produce and containing red meat was also a factor in premature aging and death. And if you pile up several non-genetic risk factors, like inactivity, poor sleep, and a polluted neighborhood, your risks for cerebrovascular diseases, stroke, COPD, rheumatoid arthritis and liver and kidney diseases increase significantly.
So, one more time, join us as we help you enjoy lifestyle choices that protect your health, increase your longevity -- and elevate your happiness. "The Great Age Reboot" offers 40 ways to live longer younger and check out "Dr. Oz's 90-Day Live Longer, Feel Younger Plan" on YouTube.
Dr. Mike Roizen is the founder of www.longevityplaybook.com, and Dr. Mehmet Oz is global advisor to www.iHerb.com, the world's leading online health store. Roizen and Oz are chief wellness officer emeritus at Cleveland Clinic and professor emeritus at Columbia University, respectively. Together they have written 11 New York Times bestsellers (four No. 1's).
(c)2025 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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