#lifestyle-factors

#lifestyle-factors

For this study, researchers Mable Ho and Esme Fuller-Thomson of the University of Toronto focused on those who were over 60 after participating in the three-year study. Their analysis of the data shows that we can put aside our 'gerascophobia' ( fear of aging) and look forward to many years of optimal health even if we experience a setback related to disease or injury. The secret is how healthy we were before the illness, and our lifestyle choices afterwards.

While many of us assume that diet is the only way to feed the trillions of microorganisms (including bacteria, fungi and viruses) that make up the microbiome, there are myriad daily habits that can help nurture this important part of the body. Diet often takes centre stage in discussions about the gut microbiome, and rightly so it plays a major role, says Dr Emily Leeming, a scientist, dietitian and research fellow at King's College London, and author of Genius Gut.

"Ever since my early years of medical training, I've been astounded by the powerful role of modifiable lifestyle factors as bulwarks against chronic disease."