DNA and Chocolate Cake – Understanding the Obesity/Genetic Link
Countless studies have shown that there is a definite link between your risk of becoming obese and having overweight or obese parents. The way your body stores fat and burns calories when you eat chocolate cake or any other food is closely related to your genetic ancestry. How your body converts food into energy is also a process which can be a result of your DNA.
The Family Lifestyle Impact
Even if genetics played little to no role in deciding your body weight, your family’s lifestyle certainly does. If your parents lead a sedentary life, suffer from poor nutrition and do not put a big priority on exercise, you will grow up in inherently learning those lessons. The simple fact is that families tend to enjoy similar lifestyle habits, including exercise and nutrition.
Can Your Fat Friends Make You Obese As Well?
Aside from an increased risk of obesity through family relationships, your sedentary friends can have a negative impact on your health as well. Studies have shown that people with a few obese friends are much more likely to be obese themselves. This could be because obese friends were each raised by overweight parents, and naturally tended to bond because of similar interests and social factors as they were growing up.
Can The Genetic/Obesity Relationship Be Defeated?
The Mayo Clinic reports that, ultimately, environmental and personal factors are responsible for you being obese, overweight or at a healthy body weight. Their research shows that even with a “genetic predisposition” towards obesity, your lifestyle will eventually be the determining factor in whether or not you are healthy and fit.
This is because, for most people, nutrition determines from 50% to 60% of their level of physical fitness and health. That is how incredibly important eating right is, especially if you are battling a hereditary obesity history. Drink lots of water, and exercise 2.5 hours each week. Walk instead of sitting whenever you have the opportunity. Choose fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and non-processed foods over sugar-filled, salty, processed fast foods, drinks and sweets. Proper diet and exercise can keep you slim and trim, fit and healthy, even if everyone in your family is overweight or obese.
If you tried diet and exercise but are unable to reach your healthy weight, give us a call to see if you are a candidate for HCG Fat Reduction Plan.
