Genetic influences on obesity are a well-documented reality, but thanks to an encouraging study, we have further evidence that our behaviors have tremendous influence on whether or not obesity genes will do their dirty work.

In this Harvard based study that included over 12,000 adults, researchers determined that taking a brisk walk for an hour a day cut the genetic risk of obesity by 50 percent. In contrast, the scientists found that excessive sitting – in this case sitting for four hours or more a day – boosted the obesity genes influence by 50 percent. (American Heart Association Meeting, San Diego, CA, March 14, 2012)

This study is a beautiful illustration of the enormous power individuals have over their health destiny- regardless of their genes. Indeed, we now know that diet and lifestyle are the “master levers” for shutting genes off and on.