Exercise Proven To Reduce Impact Of Obesity Gene

In a large international research study published in the November 1st edition of PLoS Medicine, researchers have determined that among those people with the “obesity gene” the risk of becoming obese was 27 percent lower in those who were physically active.

The study involved a meta-analysis of 218,166 adults and 19,268 children.

The (fat mass and obesity associated) gene known as the FTO gene pre-disposes some people to gain weight which can lead to obesity. According to the researchers, the study demonstrates that individuals with the gene still have some control over their body weight by remaining physically active.

However, the researchers were also quick to point out that weight loss management is complex, and includes different a number of different factors. It is important not to conclude from the study, that obese people are merely lazy.

Instead, the researchers hope that the results from this study will inspire everyone to participate in some form of physical activity. It has previously been perceived that the FTO gene precludes sufferers of obesity from experiencing benefit from exercise, whereas physical activity can actually assist pre-disposed individuals to maintain control of their weight.

The study does clearly indicate that physical activity plays a role in overcoming the effects of the FTO gene, and contributes towards an overall healthier lifestyle. The recommended amount of exercise might be as little as one hour a day, for 5 days per week. In the study, the researchers did not distinguish between moderate to intense exercise, dividing participants into either sedentary or active groups.

Simple everyday activities such as walking, cycling, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can go a long way towards promoting a healthy lifestyle. It is especially important to include some form of physical activity in our daily lives, as many jobs are sedentary nowadays, contributing to the problem of weight gain in our society.

Source: PLoS Medicine

Eating Disorder Self Test. Take the EAT-26 self test to see if you might have eating disorder symptoms that might require professional evaluation. All answers are confidential.

Find a Treatment Facility Near You

Click on a state below to find eating disorder treatment options that could be right for you.

Where do calls go?

Calls to numbers on a specific treatment center listing will be routed to that treatment center. Calls to any general helpline will be answered or returned by one of the treatment providers listed, each of which is a paid advertiser: ARK Behavioral Health, Recovery Helpline, Alli Addiction Services.

By calling the helpline you agree to the terms of use. We do not receive any commission or fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a caller chooses. There is no obligation to enter treatment.

CALL NOW FOR IMMEDIATE HELPCALL NOW FOR IMMEDIATE HELP800-776-3990Response time about 1 min | Response rate 100%
Who Answers?