Religious Habit Boosts Physical Health, New Study Shows

A groundbreaking study from Brigham Young University’s Wheatley Institute dives deep into the connection between regular church attendance and physical health. Part of a sweeping three-part research series, this study also explores the mental and social dividends of religious practice.

The Science Behind the Findings

Researchers painstakingly reviewed nearly 60,000 papers on faith and health, narrowing the field to the top 2,800 studies—those with the most rigorous evidence. Neutral or weak findings were excluded, ensuring only the strongest data shaped the conclusions.

The results? A 7-to-1 ratio of studies pointing to a positive link between frequent religious participation and physical well-being. The evidence was particularly strong for smoking habits—90 studies showed churchgoers were less likely to smoke, while a mere one study suggested the opposite.

Other compelling findings included:

• A 43-to-1 ratio in favor of religious attendance reducing drug abuse.
• A 4-to-1 ratio for better dietary habits among frequent worshippers.
• Even exercise showed a 6-to-1 positive relationship with weekly church attendance.

Not All Religious Engagement Counts

The study makes one thing clear: passive religious activity doesn’t cut it. Scrolling through online sermons or watching services on TV won’t yield the same health benefits as attending worship in person at least once a week over an extended period.

A Call for Collaboration

The researchers suggest a powerful partnership: faith communities and universities working together. By merging academic rigor with real-world religious engagement, both sides could unlock deeper insights into how spirituality fosters long-term health.