London, December 7 (ANI): Parents who run between their jobs and raising a family feel up to 11 years older than their stay-at-home counterparts, according to a new research.

The study by insurer PruHealth found that the average 46-year-old juggling parent will have the fitness and energy levels of a 53-year-old.

But the average 46-year-old parent who chose to remain at home full time will feel four years younger than their actual age due to a more healthy lifestyle, reports the Telegraph.

Experts also found that working parents drink and smoke more, but exercise and sleep less than average adult.

They also get less than six hours sleep a night compared to 25 per cent those who care for their kids full time.

PruHealth chief executive Shaun Matisonn recommended: "Finding time to exercise and eat healthily can be difficult while you're juggling a career and looking after a young family.

"But incorporating small steps into your daily routine, such as walking the children to school, getting off the bus a stop early and snacking on fruit rather than crisps, can help.

"It also sets a good example for your children." (ANI)