Researchers studied DNA from nearly 16,000 ancient skeletons and more than 6,000 living people. The study was published in the scientific journal Nature.
Using new computer models, the scientists found 479 genetic changes that appear to have become more common through natural selection.
This means that some traits may have helped people survive and have children more successfully, according to Tieteen Kuvalehti.
The findings also challenge the old idea that human evolution mostly stopped after farming began around 10,000 years ago.
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Rare but important
Some of the genetic variations were linked to red hair. Red hair is very rare and is found in only a small part of the world population.
The study also connected these genes to a lower risk of diabetes, arthritis and baldness.
At the same time, the researchers found a higher risk of celiac disease among people with the same genetic patterns.
According to The Guardian, the scientists believe that red hair itself may not have been the real advantage.
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Instead, it could be connected to another useful biological ability.
Better survival
The researchers think that people with these genes can produce vitamin D more effectively. This may have helped people living in northern areas with little sunlight.
Scientists say this could explain why the genes survived for thousands of years, even though red hair remained uncommon.
The reason why the same genes are linked to celiac disease is still unclear, but researchers say people carrying these genes appear to have had better chances of survival in the past.
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Sources: Tieteen Kuvalehti, Nature, and The Guardian.
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