Don't let your 'fat genes' define you

2/9/2012

Nurse practitioners at onsite clinics can counsel obese workers on effective ways to lose pounds. Many of these individuals may have given up on maintaining a healthy size, especially if being overweight runs in their family. Sometimes, people will claim that they can't do anything about their weight, stating that they have "fat genes."

Now, researchers have found that it's possible to overcome the genetic factors that influence weight by maintaining a proper diet and exercise routine. Scientists from the University of New South Wales set out to determine the best way to combat the biological effects of having an obese mother.

Studies have shown that overweight mothers impact their child's appetite circuits and contribute to their children having  increased fat deposits, glucose intolerance and a higher chance of developing a metabolic disease. The researchers, who conducted their trial on rodents, found that diet can help reverse these negative effects, and physical activity plays an even larger role.

"What these latest findings on exercise show is that most, if not all, of the negative consequences of maternal obesity can be reversed through voluntary exercise in the next generation," said study lead author Margaret  Morris.

This study suggests that overweight parents should encourage their children to exercise. Furthermore, people with a family history of obesity shouldn't be disheartened, but should work to overcome it.

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