Scientists from the University of Jyväskylä (Finland) found that people with a genetic predisposition to physical activity have a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research results published on SpringerLink.
People who tend to move around a lot usually have strong muscles and good general stamina. In addition, such people have high aerobic fitness, which is a measure of the body’s ability to take in oxygen from the atmosphere and use it to produce energy in muscle cells. Such traits are genetically inherited.
Scientists tried to find out what health benefits having these features provide. To do this, they conducted a study involving 47,148 people with an average age of 52.9. The youngest volunteer was 19 years old and the oldest was 100.8 years old. Researchers collected information about the participants’ health status and assessed their physical fitness and daily activity levels.
It turns out that people of all ages who move a lot have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and hypertension than those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Most likely, subjects with genetically high endurance and strength levels get less tired during the day, which allows them to walk more and exercise regularly. It is known that doing sports strengthens the cardiovascular system.
The researchers noted that their study is the first to examine the association of genetic predisposition to physical activity with cardiometabolic risk, a set of factors that contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. The researchers hope their work will provide new opportunities to study the role of genetics in health.
previously psychologist named Three characteristics that distinguish maniacs.