“It’s not my fault that I’m obese; my parents are too – it’s genetic, and there’s nothing that I can do about it.” Yes. There are diseases that are purely genetic, but we’re going to show you that you can’t always use genetics as an excuse for your medical condition. Let’s explain.
Why people blame genetics
Let’s face it: nobody wants to accept blame. It’s far easier to use genetics as an excuse than to stick to a strict eating plan and an hour of gym 3 times per week! In some cases, people may believe that they’ve been sentenced to obesity by their genes.
But, in fact, Livescience reports: “Individuals who stand to gain the most from changing their behaviours are the most likely to downplay that fact and instead blame genetics, a new study suggests.” Quite a surprise twist!
Medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension and skin cancer are not necessarily genetic. Known as ‘lifestyle diseases, these conditions are mostly caused by unhealthy living.
However, even if hypertension does run in your family, staying fit and eating a healthy diet can still keep yours from turning into a problem.
Here’s how to keep lifestyle diseases (genetic or not) away:
- Get regular exercise
- A healthy diet – not junk food or slimming fads
- Managing stress properly
- Quitting Smoking
- Avoiding Drugs
- Managing alcohol intake
- Getting an annual check-up
Are you feeling overwhelmed and aren’t sure where to start? Don’t worry. We’re right by your side to motivate and help you through the tough times. Let’s get started: here are the three main changes you can make. It’s time to begin your journey to a better YOU!
Follow a healthy diet: Make sure you include: protein, unrefined carbs and healthy fats as well as veggies and fruit. You’ll have all the macronutrients, vitamins and minerals that your body needs.
Annual check-ups with your GP: It’s essential that you go to your GP for your annual check-up. They’ll be able to tell you whether or not you’re at risk for any preventable medical condition and, if you are, advise you on how to resolve the problem.
Be active: The correct nutrition, alone, is not enough to keep you healthy – you need to turn off the TV, get up off the couch and exercise. This doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in a gym. There are many alternatives to suit your experience level, age and choice of training. Here are a few choices:
- Get Fit and Make Exercise a Family Affair
- Fitness for Beginners – Teens
- Fitness for Beginners – Adults
- Fitness For Beginners: The Elderly
And there you have it. Your family’s genetics is not always to blame. You need to make the right choices and put in the hard work. Good luck and remember to challenge your limits!
Read more:
Read more about why junk food is so bad for you. You’ll think twice before wolfing down that next fast-food burger.
Sources
http://www.genome.gov/10001204
http://www.livescience.com/6602-exercise-blame-genes.html
http://www.newsweek.com/bad-health-habits-blamed-genetics-222932