Diet and Lifestyle Have a Greater Impact on Health Than Genes

Not a day goes by when I’m not bombarded with quick weight loss advertisements from radio broadcasts and billboards as I travel across the country. Americans spend $33 billion annually on weight loss food, products and services, according to the American Dietetic Association and, surprisingly, obesity continues to haunt us as a nation (1). It’s quite common to witness the ongoing blame game between food corporations, doctors and the general public. The question still remains unanswered for some: “Why are we in the shape we are in and can we slow down the effects of what plaques us?”.

“It is proven, however, that the effects of foods we consume whether good or bad can be passed on to our children at birth.”

I firmly believe the fight against obesity will be won when we begin to rely on a change in habits, increase our food knowledge and engage in frequent exercise and activity. I realize that this is not a new concept, but is one not easily embraced. Simply because it requires more work and discipline. But the obesity dilemma gets even murkier with many studies surfacing suggesting that genetics may be responsible. Researchers have located the FTO gene that was discovered to play a huge part in a person's inability to lose weight as stated by Emily Walker of US World News.

The key is not to be swayed by studies which indicate that our genetics solely determine our ability to lose weight. It’s clear that we must retain the power to change and improve our bodies. Otherwise, we abandon helpful disciplines and structures to improve our overall lifestyles.

Proper protein intake, for example, aids in the development and birth weight of children as well as brain development. It’s no secret that the healthier the parents, the healthier the children will be. An expectant mother who consumes foods of high nutritional value, gets adequate amounts of fiber, eats a low carb diet, and cuts out sugar will find that her child will grow to have those same preferences as well.

So the fact remains as quoted by the Earth Times: “researchers found the FTO gene hardly had an affect on weight, suggesting lifestyle may trump genetics when it comes to weight.”

When I stand in front of the mirror sporting my favorite Levi's and I ask myself what’s really in my jeans, I can comfortably answer, "nothing that can’t be improved". Understand that lifestyle is always the controlling factor, not necessarily what you inherit from a parent.

Reference:

1. Statistic taken from Rick Hussey of the American Chronicle