Transform Your Health: How a Healthy Lifestyle Can Reduce Diverticulitis Risk by 50% Even with Genetic Predisposition

Living a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis, according to new research published in Gut. This study shines a light on how our choices can greatly influence our health, even for those who might have genetic factors that increase their risk.

Diverticulitis happens when small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected. It’s a common issue that often leads to hospital visits and, in severe cases, may require surgery.

Researchers analyzed data from over 179,000 participants in major studies, including the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. They assigned a healthy lifestyle score to each person based on five factors: body weight, smoking status, physical activity, dietary fiber intake, and the consumption of red and processed meats.

In the study, more than 10,000 new cases of diverticulitis emerged over two decades. The results were striking: for each positive change in lifestyle score, there was a 12% decrease in risk. Those with top scores—indicating the healthiest habits—were 50% less likely to develop the condition compared to those with the worst habits.

Certain lifestyle choices had a clear impact. Being overweight raised the risk by 32%, while obesity increased it by 44%. Smokers were also at greater risk, facing a 13% to 17% increase compared to non-smokers. On a positive note, regular exercise lowered the risk by 16%, and higher fiber intake decreased it by 14%. However, eating more red and processed meat increased the risk by 9%.

Genetics also played a role. The researchers evaluated a polygenic risk score, indicating susceptibility based on genetic data from over 36,000 individuals. Those with a higher genetic risk were up to 58% more likely to develop diverticulitis, particularly under age 60. Yet, the study found that a healthy lifestyle could counteract this genetic risk. People with a high genetic predisposition but healthy habits were 50% less likely to develop diverticulitis than those with poor lifestyles. In fact, the study suggests that 23% to 42% of diverticulitis cases might be preventable through healthier living.

The study’s results held true across different racial groups and were supported by data from additional large datasets, including the Southern Community Cohort Study and the Mass General Brigham Biobank. While the study itself is observational and cannot prove direct cause and effect, it emphasizes the importance of lifestyle choices.

Experts agree that creating small, manageable changes can lead to significant health benefits. Adopting habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fiber, and avoiding smoking can make a difference—even for those with a family history of diverticulitis. The overall message is clear: it’s never too late to start making healthy choices.

For more insights into lifestyle and health, you can visit the CDC’s page on diet and exercise here.

This study’s findings encourage many to reevaluate their daily habits and consider how minor adjustments can lead to a healthier life.

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