A recent study reinforces the fact that a healthy lifestyle is beneficial even in the absence of overweight or obesity.
The study included over 40,000 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 79 years, with a “healthy” body mass index (18.5–<25.0 kg/m2) and no history of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Researchers scored the women on a “healthy lifestyle index” that included dietary intake, alcohol consumption, smoking status, physical activity, and waist circumference.
After 20 years of follow-up, the healthiest lifestyle scores were associated with lower risk for developing CVD, as well as risk of stroke, coronary heart disease, heart attack, angina (chest pain), and the need for a coronary artery bypass compared to the unhealthiest lifestyle.
The benefits of a healthy lifestyle held true even for women with high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes and for those on cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Even if you are at a healthy weight, lifestyle choices are important for your health and a good investment in your future.