Even for those who are genetically predisposed to put on weight, exercise can take it off. That's the conclusion of researchers at the Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit in Cambridge, United
Kingdom, where scientists studied the effects of 12 different genetic variants known to increase the
risk of obesity, in a cohort of 20,430 people. Science Daily reports that the researchers assessed occupational and leisure-time physical
activities in each individual, and used modeling techniques to examine whether a higher 'genetic
predisposition score' was associated with a higher body mass index
(BMI)/obesity risk. They also examined the effect of a
physically active lifestyle on BMI
and obesity risk. The researchers found that, even those who were genetically predisposed to carry extra pounds, the increased likelihood for obesity was 40 percent lower
in physically active people, compared to
physically inactive people.
Health, fitness and lifestyle tips for people over 50 who still like to play hard
Sunday, June 1, 2025
Very encouraging research! Not only does exercise help with obesity prevention, it helps with overall health. For those persons who fight overweight/obesity, it can be hard to get started with exercise because of self-consciousness or discomfort with physical exertion. You can find great inspiration and practical information in Jayne Williams book “Shape Up with the Slow Fat Triathlete.”