If you have a genetic predisposition towards obesity, it’s especially important to get regular exercise. Not only can physical activity help you lose weight, but it can also reduce the effects of genes that make you more likely to gain weight.
In fact, recent research that was published in PLOS Genetics found that individuals with a genetic predisposition to obesity who engage in exercise for at least 30 minutes, three times per week tend to have a lower body mass index (BMI), reduced body fat and a better overall physique than sedentary individuals with the same genes. Here are a few ways that getting regular exercise may benefit individuals with these genetic markers for obesity:
1. Exercising Can Reduce the Expression of Certain Genes
It’s actually possible to reduce the expression of genes that predispose an individual to obesity by exercising regularly. This can make it easier to lose weight, and it can help you keep the weight off.
While the most effective type of exercise for reducing the expression of these genes is still unknown, experts recommend that all healthy individuals get at least 20-30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise at least 5 times a week. Also, it’s best to incorporate strength training and flexibility exercises at least twice weekly.
2. Getting Regular Exercise Can Improve Your Quality of Life
Not only can exercise help you lose weight, but it can also improve your quality of life. This can make it easier to stick to a workout routine. Here are a few of the many reasons why being physically active can dramatically improve your quality of life:
- Exercise can help to improve your state of mind, and this can make it easier to maintain an active lifestyle.
- Working out can be a group activity, and this can make it easier to form social connections. Not only can this motivate you to stick with a weight loss program, but it can also improve your mood. This can help to reduce emotional eating.
- Being physically active can make it easier to enjoy a wider range of recreational activities, and this can have important benefits for your overall mental health. As a result, you may be less likely to eat compulsively.
3. An Active Lifestyle Can Help Reduce Food Cravings
One reason why an active lifestyle is beneficial for people with a genetic predisposition towards obesity is the fact that it can prevent emotional eating. This can make it far easier for many individuals to lose weight, and it can also help you keep the weight off.
