In your twenties, life feels endless. Health seems like a given, not something you worry about.
But new research from Sweden presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Málaga might make young adults think twice about what they take for granted.
Researchers have tracked more than 620,000 people over decades. They wanted to understand how lifestyle choices in early adulthood affect long-term health.
The danger before the 30s
The study revealed that something many consider harmless is, in fact, linked to a sharply increased risk of premature death.
Men who made this choice before age 30 were 24 % more likely to die early. For women, the risk was nearly as high.
The problem is weight gain – specifically, gaining weight before turning 30.
The research showed that while weight gain at any age increases mortality risk, it’s significantly more dangerous when it happens in early adulthood.
Even small increases during your twenties can lead to lasting health consequences.
A lifetime of impact
Those who gained weight young faced higher rates of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer later in life.
The study followed men for an average of 23 years and women for 12 years, finding that the earlier the weight gain, the greater the long-term damage.
Experts believe the extended exposure to excess fat over decades puts enormous strain on the body.
And it’s not just about being overweight – it’s about how early it begins.
The findings serve as a stark reminder: Healthy habits in your twenties are not optional. They could be the difference between a full life and one cut short.
This article is based on information from The Guardian.