it starts at 36...

Hey,

We often think of poor health as something that creeps up on us much later in life.  According to a multi-decade Finnish study, habits like smoking, drinking, and inactivity start harming our mental and physical health much earlier than we think, as early as our mid-thirties.

Whether you're a mother trying to keep up with your family or someone navigating the many hats of midlife, it's important to know how early these lifestyle choices begin to affect us and what we can do about it.

In this edition:

• What the new long-term study tells us about early health decline

• Which habit hurts what: breaking it down

• PCOS Management

• Recipe of the Week: Rainbow Burrito Bowl

A recent study published in Annals of Medicine tracked participants in Finland from childhood into their 60s. The researchers wanted to find out when bad habits like smoking, drinking, and inactivity begin to make a measurable impact on both mental and physical health.

Surprisingly, the effects were noticeable as early as age 36.

Most people associate these consequences with older age, but the research shows that by then, it's too late; real damage may already be underway.

The real takeaway? You don’t need decades of bad habits for them to take a toll.

Just a few years into your 30s could be enough to feel the difference.

How bad is ‘bad’? Let’s compare.

Here's a simple breakdown of what the researchers found.

Participants were evaluated based on how many of the three habits, smoking, heavy drinking, and inactivity, they practised consistently:

Even at age 36, participants saw a dip in their overall health.

But those who continued these habits over decades saw much steeper declines, clearly showing a cumulative effect.

Is one habit worse than another?

It’s tempting to rank bad habits, but researchers say the impact depends on multiple factors, like your existing health conditions or genetic predisposition.

So while all three are problematic, the way they manifest can differ.

Why early action matters (and what you can do)

The study reinforces a simple truth: habits are easier to change before they become ingrained.

By the time you're in your 40s or 50s, the damage may be harder to reverse, and change feels heavier.

But here’s the empowering part: since none of these habits are “fated,” making even small, consistent changes early on can help you avoid long-term issues.

Also, it’s not just about discipline, it’s about awareness. Many women are so focused on caring for others, they ignore early warning signs in themselves.

This is your reminder that you count too.

Stuck despite eating clean and moving daily?

Doing everything “right” but still feeling stuck?

📞 Book a free discovery call to get started

If this edition gave you something to think about, I’d love to hear from you.

Join our WhatsApp Community of awesome women where we are discussing PCOS/PCOD-related issues along with actionable solutions this whole month.

We’re stronger when we work together!

Hit reply and let me know what healthy habit you’re trying to build or break.

Take care of yourself,
Simrun ❤️