Recent studies have revealed how genetics and lifestyle affect the duration and quality of human life. In the age-old debate of what is more important for longevity, genes or environment, it appears that both players are significant. Our daily habits and choices can either enhance or reduce the role of our genetic makeup.
To understand this in detail, OnlyMyHealth spoke to Dr Shreepad Khedekar, MD (Homoeopathy), Medical Geneticist, Mumbai.
The Role of Genetics in Longevity
Lifespan is influenced by the genes one inherits, without a doubt. Dr Khedekar explained, “Some specific gene variants have been implicated in diseases like heart attacks, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease, which are markers of the ageing process. For example, having the apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 variant increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. However, these genetic markers do not mean that our fate is sealed; they only set the stage for how we take it forward.”
The Influence of Lifestyle Choices
Our lifestyle choices can tip the scales in favour of a long and healthy life. Healthy habits significantly reduce the chances of premature mortality, even with a genetic predisposition to diseases. Research suggests individuals with high genetic risks can cut that risk by up to 50% through a healthy lifestyle. Key components include a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, sound sleep, and avoiding bad habits. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat proteins prevents chronic illnesses and promotes longevity. According to a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity weekly reduces the risk of death by 30%. Managing stress through meditation, yoga, or social connections is crucial for well-being. Quality sleep, between seven and nine hours regularly, is essential for good health. Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol, and inactivity greatly increases lifespan.
Also read: Lifestyle Tips That Can Reduce Your Risk Of Kidney Cancer
Gene-Homoeopathy
The nature-nurture debate is significant, but with homoeopathy, it is possible to correct damage at the DNA level, which can improve longevity. Dr Khedekar said, “Gene-homoeopathy can influence genes involved in ageing and disease, reducing the risk of certain diseases and promoting a longer, healthier life. It helps adjust how genes work without changing the DNA, promoting a healthier ageing process.”
How Gene-Homoeopathy Enhances Longevity
Dr Khedekar listed down some points on how gene-homoeopathy can enhance longevity.
1. Optimising Mitochondrial Function: Gene-homoeopathy can improve energy production, which is essential for overall health.
2. Tissue Repair and Regeneration: By modulating stem cell function, gene-homoeopathy aids in tissue repair and regeneration.
3. Reducing Chronic Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to ageing and disease, and gene-homoeopathy can help reduce it.
4. Maintaining Healthy Telomeres: By optimising gene-environment interactions, gene-homoeopathy helps maintain healthy telomeres, which are critical for cellular health and longevity.
Also read: Alzheimer's Disease: Expert Explains Genetic and Family History Connections
Integrating Lifestyle and Gene-Homeopathy
The amalgamation of genetics, lifestyle, and gene-homoeopathy is where the true magic takes place. Dr Khedekar explained, “Gene-homoeopathy, which involves using personalised homoeopathic treatments based on an individual's genetic makeup, can significantly enhance the benefits of healthy lifestyle choices.” Adopting healthy habits, even later in life, combined with gene-homoeopathy, can yield substantial rewards. Citing an example, he said, “Changing from an unhealthy to a healthy lifestyle at the age of forty with a high genetic risk, while incorporating gene-homoeopathy treatments, could potentially increase lifespan by about 5.5 years. Gene-homoeopathy aims to harmonise the body's natural healing processes with its genetic blueprint, offering a customised approach that maximises the benefits of both lifestyle interventions and personalised genetic treatments.”
Conclusion
Our genes do shape our future, but they are not its exclusive determinants. By deliberately making choices towards nurturing health and well-being, and leveraging the power of gene-homoeopathy, we can rewrite the plot to enable a longer and more vibrant existence. Therefore, let us seize this opportunity and go forth, using both nature, lifestyle and the innovative approach of gene homoeopathy, as our guide towards a brighter, healthier future.