This isn’t exactly what we’d call a “revelation”, but scientists have found that exercise can help overweight people reverse the so called “obesity gene”.
Those who have the fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) which makes them crave sugary and fatty foods often avoid exercise because they feel their body is destined to be larger.
Researchers are discovering this myth is simply NOT true!
Yes, the gene is real, but that doesn’t mean exercise and a healthier diet can’t have the same positive affect it has on people without FTO.
Dr Ruth Loos, the lead author of the study from the Medical Research Council, explained:
“Our findings emphasise that daily physical activity does reduce the risk of obesity, even in those who are genetically predisposed. The findings contrast with the determinist view held by some that ‘obesity is in their genes’ and they cannot do anything about it. Knowing about this interaction between genes and lifestyle could give people a sense of control. The effects are seen with 30 min of physical activity five days a week. You do not need to run marathons; cycling to work, walking the dog, weeding the garden all count.”
After studying exercise data of 220,000 adults from around the world, researchers found those carrying FTO are 30% more likely to become obese than those without it. Fortunately, carriers who exercised regularly decreased their risks of obesity to 22%!
Overall, people carrying the fat gene who remain active cut the effects down by 27%!
Don’t use genetics as an excuse to avoid living the healthiest lifestyle you can, but rather use it as motivation to work out even harder!
[Image via WENN.]
