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Genetics affects not only our appearance but also our health. Some diseases are programmed into our DNA and we cannot fully influence them. Maternal inheritance plays a key role in various conditions, including those that affect the bones, heart, or even mental health.
Therefore it is important not only to regularly attend medical check-ups, but also to be aware of the risk factors that can affect our health. Scientists have found that the following conditions are often inherited through the maternal line.
1. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that is especially common in women. Bones lose strength and become brittle. If this condition occurred in your family, you have a higher risk of fractures, especially after menopause.
Prevention:
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Ensure an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D.
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Limit consumption of sweetened and carbonated drinks.
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Exercise regularly – strength training and physical activity help keep bones strong.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis
This autoimmune disease attacks the joints and can lead to disability. Genetic predisposition plays a role, but environmental factors can also be triggers.
How to reduce the risk?
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Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid stress.
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Take care of oral health – gum inflammation can increase the risk.
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Regular exercise helps keep joints functional.
3. Premature aging
Scientists have found that genes influence the rate of aging. Damaged DNA inherited from the mother can cause earlier wrinkle formation or loss of skin elasticity.
How to slow aging?
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Use sunscreens with a high SPF.
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Follow a balanced diet rich in antioxidants.
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Avoid smoking and excessive stress.
4. Depression
According to studies, women suffer from depression up to twice as often as men. Genetic predisposition, especially the presence of the gene Slc6a15, can increase the risk of depressive states.
What helps?
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Maintain mental hygiene and get enough sleep.
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Do not underestimate exercise in the fresh air.
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If you feel bad, do not hesitate to seek professional help.
5. Glaucoma
This serious eye disease occurs more often in women. Genetics plays a significant role, but prevention can reduce the risk.
How to protect your eyesight?
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Regularly visit an eye doctor.
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Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid smoking.
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Avoid extreme strain on the eyes, for example prolonged screen viewing.
6. Cardiovascular diseases
Fat in women is mainly stored in the abdominal area, which increases the risk of heart attack and high blood pressure. Cholesterol and genetics can play a big role.
How to reduce the risk?
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Limit high-fat and industrially processed foods.
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Regularly exercise and maintain a healthy weight.
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Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
7. Migraines
Migraines occur up to three times more often in women than in men and have a genetic origin.
What helps?
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Limit caffeine, sugar and alcohol.
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Ensure regular sleep and avoid stress.
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Hydrate the body – drink enough water.
8. Insomnia
If your mother suffered from chronic insomnia, it is possible that you will inherit this problem. Genetic predisposition may also affect anxiety disorders.
How to improve sleep?
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Go to bed at the same time every day.
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Avoid heavy meals and caffeine in the evening hours.
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Exercise, but not before sleep.
9. Alzheimer’s disease
This form of dementia affects women more often than men and genetic inheritance plays a large role.
How to protect the brain?
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Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
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Maintain mental activity (reading, learning, solving puzzles).
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Exercise regularly to keep the brain sufficiently oxygenated.
10. Breast and ovarian cancer
Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of these types of cancer. Regular check-ups are key!
How to reduce the risk?
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Regularly attend mammography and gynecological exams.
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Have your first child before age 30, which according to studies reduces the risk of breast cancer.
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Live a healthy lifestyle, eliminate smoking and alcohol.
Conclusion
Genes affect many aspects of our health, but proper prevention and a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risks. If any of these diseases occur in your family, do not underestimate regular check-ups with a doctor. We only have one health, so it is important to take care of it.
