Genetic Variation May Make You Gain Weight Easier

Well, it’s just like the human race to jump at forces of nature beyond their control, like genetic makeup, as the reason for their problems, and the latest is a research study that seems to have proven that genetics are partly to blame for your tendency to gain weight, or tendency to be thing.  More specifically I’m talking about the tendency to gain weight though, which apparently about 30% of those with a European heritage possess.

The trait they possess which makes them more susceptible to tipping the scales is actually a variant of a common gene.  Researchers found though, that if these people were to get three to four hours of moderate, activity that helps result in fat loss and burning per day, the gene variants power over the body to make it gain weight more easily disappears.  In other words, several hours of moderate activity per day would make those with the gene variant just like those without it – less likely to pack on the pounds.

Getting three to four hours may not sound too bad, or it may sound totally unattainable to others.  Keep in mind, this does not mean you have to work out on a treadmill or elliptical 3-4 hours per day, they are talking about getting moderate activity in, and this could mean brisk walking, strenuous household tasks, and moving around at a moderate pace.  So say you have a job waiting tables – you’re probably fine, since this job entails moving around a lot, and somewhat strenuously at many times.

But what about those that have an office job and have this gene variant?  Well they are the ones who would need to be more vigilant about getting their moderate activity in so they can negate the effects of this powerful genetic variant.  I, for example, am likely to have this variant since I am of European heritage, and I may be at risk because I do have a desk job, and find myself sitting at my computer at home a lot to do things like type this and work on other side projects after work. 

I make it a point to get up and move at work whenever possible.  I also happen to work out for almost a full hour at work on my lunch hour, which helps me get that activity in with no hassles or worries.