Obesity Genes Arent Destiny
By Staff Writer
Your parents have always struggled with their weight, your grandparents are overweight, and now you and your siblings can’t seem to achieve your weight loss goals. You may have a genetic predisposition to overweight or obesity.
But even if you come from a long line of family members who struggle with their weight, research shows there is hope for you.
A study by Dr. Ruth Loos from the Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit in Cambridge, United Kingdom, shows that a genetic tendency toward obesity can be reduced by physical activity. After reviewing 12 different genetic variants in 20,430 individuals, researchers assigned each participant a “genetic predisposition score.” While participants with the most genetic variants did have a higher body mass index (BMI), those who were physically active were significantly more likely to maintain a healthy weight.
So no more excuses! Life may have dealt you an unfair hand in the genetics department, but you have the power – through diet and exercise – to shape your own destiny and achieve your ideal weight.
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