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Health & Fitness

Do You Carry the Obesity Gene?

Estée is a certified Sports Nutritionist and Personal Trainer. She welcomes your comments at eross@goldsgymtewksbury.com.

Dear Fitness Coach,

Simply put, I come from a fat family. My mom is about 50 pounds heavier than she should be, and my dad, who passed away from diabetes complications a few years ago, was close to 300 pounds. My older sister is also significantly overweight. I am just wondering if I am fighting a losing battle (no pun intended!) by trying to lose weight. I am currently 225 pounds, and for my height the charts say I should be 150.

A.K., Lowell


Dear A.K.,

I once heard this expression, which I have found to be very true: Genetics loads the gun, but your environment is what pulls the trigger. If you have inherited the obesity gene you may be predisposed to having higher levels of the hunger hormone, you may store fat easier and even be more more inclined to be sedentary. However, studies do show that diet and activity level have a bigger impact on your weight than your genes do.

So despite the fact that you come from an obese family, you can still win the weight-loss battle. Work with a nutritionist to come up with a healthy and sustainable eating plan. Sustainable is the key word: You want to be able to see yourself on this plan for the long term. As far as physical activity, you want to include both cardio and strength training. Cardio can help burn calories and weight training will help rev up your metabolism. 

Hopefully, you will soon reap the benefits and can be an inspiration to your mom and sister to help them lead a more active and healthy lifestyle.

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