Now, don’t take this the wrong way. No one, absolutely nobody, is suggesting it is a good idea to smoke. The habit is linked to higher risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke, to name just a few of its dangers.
But is smoking less dangerous to our health than being a couch potato with a poor diet?
A recent paper in the journal Frontiers of Nutrition argues that poor fitness and inadequate protein in one’s diet are linked to an even greater risk of dying.
In fact, the paper says that people who are less active have a 400% greater risk of death than those who have high fitness levels. Compare that with smoking, which carries a 50% higher risk.
The author of the British study argues that exercise and protein recommendations in the United Kingdom are too low. He says government guidance sets a bare minimum. The same is true in the United States.
It isn’t enough to simply increase the amount of exercise in your life. The researcher suggests that physical activity should also be more vigorous. He points to higher mortality rates associated with those who engage in lighter exercise.
The paper notes that when looking at cancer mortality, one hour of light activity is equivalent to just a minute of vigorous exercise. So, step up the pace.
Protein intake is also important, especially as we age. It helps preserve muscle and aids fat loss, among other benefits. The paper recommends that a 175-pound adult aim for 120 grams of protein per day.
Smoking rates have significantly declined in the United States in the last 50 years. Health warning labels on cigarette packs helped.
It’s harder to put a warning label on a beer belly, but it’s worth spreading the word any other way you can.