Physical activity linked to lower mortality, even without a healthy diet – study

Engaging in physical activity while maintaining a healthy diet is generally considered the best formula for overall health.

But a new study suggests that in lowering the risk of death from any cause and cardiovascular disease, total physical activity, particularly work-related movement like walking, lifting, or manual labor, and leisure-time exercise, may have a more substantial impact than a healthy diet.

A 2023 research, conducted by the Isfahan Cohort Study and supported by Iran's Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, followed 6,504 adults aged 35 and older for 13 years. It found that:

• Total physical activity (work-related and leisure-time exercise) was associated with a lower risk of all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality, regardless of diet.
• Being active at work, like walking, lifting, or doing physical tasks, was linked to a lower risk of death and heart problems regardless of diet.
• Leisure-time exercise was not associated with lower mortality, underscoring the importance of daily movement and occupational activity.
• A healthy diet alone without any daily physical activity or leisure-time exercise is not enough to lower the risk of all-cause mortality.

The study explained that the type of physical activity matters, suggesting that regular movement throughout the day, especially during work, is more beneficial for longevity than exercising only during leisure time.

“High physical activity, either with a healthy or unhealthy diet, was associated with a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality,” the study said.

Experts however note that both exercise and diet still play a significant role in overall health.

Healthline suggests that while you may be tempted to pick one over the other, “diet and exercise work hand in hand, and combining both will optimize health and quality of life.” — LA, GMA Integrated News