There’s a basic human instinct to know where we come from. With new technology, like genetic testing kits, we can easily find out more than ever before.
Beyond Genes
You may find out your family doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to heart health.
Luckily, it doesn’t mean you’re doomed. You can still make changes to your environment and lifestyle to lower your risk of developing the same conditions.
Studies have shown that weight gain as small as six pounds can significantly alter gene behavior. A negative statistic like that may sound scary, but it also means that you have some positive control over your heart health, despite what your family history may be.
Passing It On
Encouraging healthy habits in the next generation can help curb any genetic predispositions you may have uncovered.
Something as simple as regular exercise and a nutritious diet can help to stave off heart disease. Encouraging a healthy, balanced lifestyle while your kids, nieces and nephews, or grandkids are young can lead to a long, heart-healthy life.
Don’t forget to pass on your medical family tree, too. They will thank you for putting in the hard work to document the information for the next generation!
Sharing your family history with your physician is the first step to keeping your heart healthy. Together you can work out a game plan that covers everything from stress management to diet and exercise.