Certain Habits May Help Reduce Risk Of ALS, New Research Indicates

Two Simple Daily Habits Linked to Lower ALS Risk, Says New Research

When it comes to long-term health, small daily habits can add up in surprisingly powerful ways. A recent large-scale study highlighted by mindbodygreen found that two specific lifestyle patterns—waking up early and staying physically active—were associated with a reduced risk of developing ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a serious neurodegenerative condition.

While researchers are still working to understand the full picture of what causes or prevents ALS, these findings add to a growing body of evidence that consistent movement and healthy sleep-wake routines play a meaningful role in overall wellness. Here's what the research found, and how you can start weaving these habits into your own routine.

Habit #1: An Early Wake-Up Schedule

The study found that people who naturally woke up earlier in the day tended to have a lower associated risk of ALS compared to those with later wake times. While researchers caution that this doesn't mean waking up early "prevents" the disease, it does suggest that circadian rhythm and sleep timing may be worth paying attention to as part of a broader healthy lifestyle.

• Try shifting your bedtime slightly earlier to naturally adjust your internal clock.
• Get natural light exposure soon after waking to help regulate your circadian rhythm.
• Keep a consistent sleep-wake schedule, even on weekends.

Habit #2: Regular Physical Activity

The second—and perhaps more actionable—habit identified in the study was regular physical activity. Participants who engaged in consistent exercise showed an association with reduced ALS risk. This aligns with decades of research showing that movement supports nervous system health, cardiovascular function, and overall longevity.

The good news? You don't need an intense training regimen to reap the benefits. Consistency matters more than intensity when it comes to building a sustainable movement habit.

• Aim for daily movement, even if it's a brisk walk or light strength training.
• Incorporate resistance training a few times a week to support muscle and joint health.
• Use recovery tools like massage guns or supportive braces to stay consistent without burnout.
• Prioritize mobility and stretching to keep your body moving comfortably long-term.

Building Habits That Support Long-Term Wellness

While no single habit can guarantee protection against a complex condition like ALS, this research reinforces something the wellness community has long emphasized: consistent sleep patterns and regular movement are foundational pillars of a health-supportive lifestyle. Small, sustainable changes—like adjusting your wake time or committing to daily activity—can add up over time.

As always, it's a good idea to pair these habits with proper recovery, comfortable gear, and tools that make it easier to stay consistent, especially during colder months or after a workout when your body needs a little extra support.