Humans are genetically programmed to be lazy conserving energy helped our ancestors when food was scarce and our brains continue to optimize our energetic cost

Humans are Genetically Programmed to be Lazy

It’s no secret that most people tend to lean towards relaxation and comfort rather than exerting too much energy. But have you ever wondered why humans are naturally inclined to be lazy? The answer may lie in our genetic programming. Our ancestors, who lived in an environment where food was scarce, had to conserve energy to survive. This genetic trait has been passed down through generations, and our brains continue to optimize our energetic cost.

According to a study published in Current Biology, humans have an innate tendency to minimize physical effort. This behavior is believed to have evolved during periods when food was not readily available. People with ancestors who were better at conserving energy had a higher chance of surviving and passing on their genes. As a result, this inclination towards laziness has become embedded in our DNA.

Our brains play a crucial role in optimizing our energetic cost. This means that our minds are wired to choose the path of least resistance whenever possible. It’s not about being lazy, but rather, it’s an efficient way for our ancestors to conserve energy. Our brain automatically calculates the energetic cost of every action and encourages us to pick the least taxing option. This programming becomes even more evident in our modern lives, where we have an abundance of food, but our genetic predisposition to conserving energy remains.

While being lazy may have been advantageous for our ancestors, it poses challenges in the modern world where physical activity is necessary for a healthy lifestyle. Technology and modern conveniences have made our lives more sedentary compared to earlier generations. As a result, we are often faced with a conflict between our natural inclination to be lazy and the need to be physically active for our well-being.

Understanding our genetic predisposition to be lazy can help us make informed choices about adopting a more active lifestyle. By acknowledging that our brains are wired to conserve energy, we can actively work towards overcoming this innate tendency. Incorporating regular exercise, engaging in physical activities, and adopting mindful approaches to movement can help counteract our genetic programming and ensure we lead healthier lives.

In conclusion, humans are genetically programmed to be lazy due to our ancestors’ need to conserve energy when food was scarce. Our brains continue to optimize our energetic cost, pushing us towards the path of least resistance. While this genetic trait has been beneficial in the past, it presents challenges in the modern sedentary world. By understanding our genetic predisposition to laziness, we can make conscious efforts to lead more active and healthier lives.

Source:
Cell: Humans May Be Naturally Lazy