I have the so called fat gene. I don't need genetic testing to know this is so. All I need to do is eat more and exercise less and I gain weight. Everytime! Over the Thanksgiving weekend, I gained a whopping 7 pounds. I didn't even think I ate that much (was it the drinks?) and I exercised everyday. But still, my caloric intake must have been much higher than my energy output. It was a humbling reminder that if I don't take good care of my body it will return to its natural gelatinous state. Fat cells can shrink but they never die. They are always there, waiting to be filled.
65% of the population that is from European or African descent has the fat gene. It is not quite as prevelant in Asian populations. Given these odds, it is likely you have the fat gene too. This doesn't mean you are destined to be overweight. Researches have found a way to suppress the fat gene. But it will require you to put down the remote control and get off the couch. You guessed it: exercise is the best known defense against obesity.
But even a dedicated exerciser such as myself will gain weight if I take in too many calories. There is a delicate balance between calories in and calories burned. Exercise may help supress your fat gene, but if you eat too much you will still gain weight.
This holiday season, eat until you are full but not stuffed and keep moving! If you find your weight creeping up, eat a little less and exercise more. Most weight gain happens slowly but if you are not careful a little weight problem can turn into a much bigger one.
