Can You Strengthen Your Longevity Genes?
What if your DNA could predict not only your muscle strength but also your lifespan? A recent study suggests it can, indicating a genetic score for muscle strength may predict your risk for common diseases and lifespan.
Researchers studied about 340,000 people, analyzing whether they had genes linked to stronger muscles. By examining genetic predispositions without the impact of personal exercise or health habits, they uncovered that those with a natural advantage in muscle strength tended to live longer. Participants in the top 20% for genetically predicted muscle strength had up to a 25% reduced risk of future health issues.
But the news is good even if you don’t have “strength genes.” Research shows that building strength through muscle-targeting activities can yield the same health benefits. Greater strength is associated with a lower risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, COPD, and even depression.
Muscles, it turns out, are far more than just physical movers. Besides helping burn calories and store nutrients, they produce beneficial hormones and proteins called myokines. These myokines positively impact the immune system, promote fat metabolism, and even boost brain chemistry, explaining why strength training has extensive health benefits.
The bottom line? Strategies to increase muscle mass and strength — like regular resistance training — offer life-extending benefits. Just 30 to 60 minutes of strength training per week is linked to a range of health improvements. Start with a basic routine and aim to do it two to three times per week.
