They reviewed 20,430 people and focused on the genetic variants known to increase the incidence of obesity. On average most people had inherited 10 to 13 of these variants, but some had more than 17 while others had fewer than six.

The participants also provided information about their levels of physical activity.

On average, each additional obesity-related genetic variant was associated with an increase in body mass index (BMI) equivalent to 445 grams (nearly half a kilogram of body weight) for a 170cm tall person.

This effect was found to be greater in sedentary people than in active people. Those with physically active lifestyles had an increase of 379 grams per genetic variant. In contrast those who were inactive had a net average weight gain of 592 grams per genetic variant.

In other words, activity lowered the effect of the genetic predisposition to weight gain by 36% per variant!

The researchers also found the addition of each obesity susceptibility variant increased the odds of obesity by 1.1-fold. However this risk was 40% lower for active people compared to inactive people.

This study clearly illustrates the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle for people who are at an increased genetic risk of developing obesity.

Reference: Public Library of Science, news release, August 31^st, 2010.

VICTORIA LEADS THE WAY.

By 2012 fast-food companies will be forced to disclose the number of calories in their food.

In a news report on Ninemsn it was reported that as people order their Big Mac or a bucket of extra crispy chicken, they will be able to see on the menu or on the display board how many kilojoules come with it.

Perhaps this will provide a little more “food for thought” before chowing down on that burger. Perhaps an exercise equivalent should be listed along side (i.e. Eating this serve of KFC will require you to walk 87km continuously to expend the energy you’ll consume here!).