Did you know that some people are more likely to gain weight because of their genetics? Yup, it’s true. But don’t freak out if you think that’s you! The good news is that you’re not stuck with your genetic blueprint – you can actually affect the expression of your genes and program them to stop promoting weight gain. This is especially significant if you’re one of those people who seem to gain weight without really overeating.
The FTO Gene: A Key Culprit in Unwanted Weight Gain
Researchers in England made quite the discovery when they were looking for ways to keep your waistline from expanding. They found out that some people have a gene called the “fat mass and obesity associated” (FTO) gene, which makes them predisposed to gaining fat. They conducted a study involving the health history of more than 218,000 people and found a way to reduce the negative weight gain effect of this gene by 30 percent.
You Can Choose Your Destiny: Turn Off the FTO Gene
Now, you might be thinking, “OK, so I might have this FTO gene, but how do I turn it off?” The answer is a lot simpler than you might expect: lead a more physically active life. This doesn’t mean you need to spend all your waking hours in the gym – just avoid being sedentary.
In the words of the researchers, “physical activity is an effective way of controlling body weight, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition towards obesity. Thus, they contrast with the determinist view held by many that genetic influences are unmodifiable.”
In simpler terms, that means just because you inherited a gene that encourages weight gain doesn’t mean you’re stuck with that fate. By incorporating activity into your daily life, you can take control of your body and dictate its path, regardless of what your genes may want.
What Counts as Physical Activity?
Now, when we say “physical activity,” we don’t just mean traditional exercise. Yes, hitting the gym or going for a run are great ways to get your body moving, but anything that involves really using your muscles and isn’t just busywork can help counteract the influence of the FTO gene.
Household Chores: Cleaning the house, doing yard work, or even just rearranging furniture can count as physical activity.
Playing Sports: Join a recreational league or just play casually with friends and family. Many people find team sports or games like golf or tennis more enjoyable than, say, running on a treadmill.
Walking or Biking: Instead of driving everywhere, consider walking or biking when possible. This can be a great way to run errands or commute to work while getting some physical activity in at the same time.
Taking Breaks: If you have a desk job, remember to take breaks throughout the day to stand up, stretch, and walk around. Even short periods of activity can help combat the sedentary nature of sitting at a desk for hours on end.
Dancing: Whether it’s taking a dance class or just cutting loose in your living room, dancing can be a fun way to get some physical activity.
Hobbies: Pick up a hobby that involves getting active, such as gardening, painting, or even woodworking. All of these activities require you to use your muscles, maintaining engagement with your body while doing something enjoyable.
The bottom line is that by leading an active lifestyle, you can help suppress the influence of the FTO gene and better control your weight. Regardless of your genetic predisposition towards weight gain or not, physical activity is essential in maintaining a healthy body and mind – so why not start today?
