Two people with the same lifestyle can have different heart health? Doctor shares diet for genetic variations

By Admin

29 Sep, 2025

Heart diseases are growing at an alarming pace worldwide, affecting people across all age groups. According to a World Health Organisation (WHO) report from July 31, 2025, cardiovascular disease was responsible for 19.8 million deaths in 2022 alone. Alarming trends show that heart ailments are no longer restricted to middle-aged adults they are increasingly impacting young adults in their 20s and 30s.

With this rise, many people are focusing on healthy diets and regular exercise to protect their hearts. But here comes an important question: are lifestyle choices alone enough to safeguard heart health?

Lifestyle vs. Genetics: Why heart risks differ

Dr Aparna Bhanushali, director of medical genetics at HaystackAnalytics, told HT Lifestyle that even if two people follow the same diet and lifestyle, their heart health outcomes may be very different. This is because genetics play a crucial role in determining how the body processes cholesterol, sugar, and fats.

“While lifestyle choices certainly impact heart health, genetic variations can influence factors such as how efficiently the body regulates these substances, ultimately affecting the risk of heart disease,” she explained.

This means heart risks often lie in our DNA, and identifying these variations is vital to prevention.

Major genetic variations linked to heart disease

Dr Bhanushali pointed out that conditions like high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and arrhythmias are influenced by genetic factors often long before symptoms appear. She highlighted four key genetic variations that can increase the risk:

• LDLR gene – Affects LDL cholesterol metabolism and can cause familial hypercholesterolemia, leading to dangerously high cholesterol from a young age.
  
  

• KCNQ1 gene – Linked to arrhythmias, particularly long QT syndrome, which affects the heart’s electrical system and can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
  
  

• APOE gene – Influences lipid metabolism and cholesterol levels, increasing heart disease risk.
  
  

• Certain APOE variations – Even with a healthy lifestyle, these variations may predispose individuals to coronary artery disease because their bodies process fats differently.
  
  

Diet recommendations for genetic predispositions

While a general “heart-healthy” diet helps most people, those with genetic predispositions may require more tailored dietary strategies. Dr Bhanushali shared specific recommendations:

• APOE-ε4 carriers – Limit saturated fats, follow a Mediterranean-style diet (rich in plants, fish, olive oil, nuts), increase soluble fibre (legumes, oats), and monitor lipid levels regularly.
  
  

• APOA5, LPL, ANGPTL4 variations – Reduce refined carbohydrates and added sugars, and increase omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibre.
  
  

• High cholesterol predisposition – Cut back on saturated fats and increase fibre intake.
  
  

• Arrhythmia risk – Regular heart check-ups and diets that support cardiovascular endurance are beneficial.
  
  

These gene-based dietary adjustments can make a significant difference in reducing heart disease risks.

The role of exercise

Despite genetic differences, exercise remains one of the most effective preventive measures for heart health.

Dr Bhanushali recommends:

• At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, including brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
  
  

• A mix of cardio and resistance training to improve heart function, maintain weight, and regulate sugar and cholesterol levels.
  
  

For instance, those with high cholesterol genes should emphasize fibre intake and regular workouts, while individuals with arrhythmia risk should prioritize endurance-building activities and regular check-ups.

Looking ahead: Precision medicine

Dr Bhanushali emphasized that treatment approaches are shifting towards precision medicine, which considers both genetics and lifestyle. This personalized approach ensures that prevention and treatment plans are tailored to an individual’s genetic risk profile.

Final takeaway

Heart disease prevention goes beyond lifestyle changes it also requires an understanding of genetic factors. Knowing your genetic risks and adapting your diet and exercise accordingly can go a long way in protecting your heart health.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor for any health-related concerns.