Inherited Fat – When the Obesity Gene Runs In Your Family

Ever heard of the obesity gene? Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight hasn’t been easy for me. I have had to go through a lot of trial and error to figure out what works for me and what doesn’t. I’ve also done a lot of research as a result.

One of the most interesting topics that I’ve come across in the world of weight loss has to do with human genetics, inherited fat, and how they can affect weight. That’s right, there’s an obesity gene.

Inherited fat really is a thing.  If you’ve been struggling to lose weight and then keep it off when it’s gone, this may interest you.

You may have what is known as inherited fat, especially if obesity seems to run in your family.  If your relatives struggle with weight or if many are obese, it could be a genetic factor for you. Check out the information below on the obesity gene and the heredity it causes.  This may help you to figure out if you might have to tackle your obesity from a different angle.

The Connection Between Obesity and Genetics

In order to really understand how your genes could actually make you more prone to obesity, you need to comprehend how our ancestors lived. Basically, they needed to have an innate desire to find food, eat enough calories, and store enough energy in their bodies for when food was scarce. This basic instinct for survival has been passed down since ancient times.  Therefore, modern man still has the same impulses, even though food is abundant.

In other words, your cravings for food—any type of food—are essentially a part of our primitive drive, and you can’t deny its power. And because we have so much access to food today, the obesity gene makes it easier than ever to become overweight or obese. In essence, we suffer from inherited fat.

What If You Have the Obesity Gene?

By now, you might be wondering if you have the gene that makes you fatter than the rest of the population. And if you have that gene, does it really matter what you eat or how much you eat?

Let’s start with the basics: your genes are a component of a biological code that created your body. Fifty percent of your genes are from your dad, and the other half come from your mom. The particular inherited fat gene that makes you more susceptible to becoming obese has been dubbed the FTO gene. It is also known as the fat mass and obesity-associated gene or, simply the obesity gene.

It is the FTO gene that has the biggest impact upon an individual’s BMI (body mass index) because it works on boosting your cravings for foods that are high in fat. If you are one of the people who has inherited two copies of this gene, one from your mom and one from your dad, you will end being 50% more likely to become obese or overweight. If you inherited just one copy of the gene, on the other hand, it will increase your risk of becoming obese by around 23%.

But it doesn’t actually stop with the FTO obesity gene. Researchers have already found more than 75 gene groups and individual genes that can impact your susceptibility to obesity by inherited fat.  After all, these genes affect how easily your body stores fat as well as how you eat.

Talk to Your Doctor About Inherited Fat

To find out if you have the genes that would predispose you to becoming overweight or obese, it is best to consult with your doctor. If it is determined that you do, indeed, have the genes, you can work with your physician to come up with the appropriate eating and exercise plan. Your doctor might recommend weight loss surgeries or prescriptions as well, if you’re obese.

Every individual is different, so your doctor will know what is best for your particular body. You should also talk to him or her about any of the side effects that can result from taking prescription weight loss pills or undergoing invasive weight loss procedures.

Take Action Every Day to Keep Your Weight in Check

In addition to talking with your doctor, it is important to not become discouraged if you have the obesity gene. By being aware of the fact that you have this inherited fat gene can put you in the driver’s seat.  This knowledge can allow you to take active control over your cravings because you understand where they are coming from.

By following a healthy lifestyle, you can overcome the power of your genes and maintain a healthy weight while feeling great. Remember, your daily habits have a huge impact on your weight and health, so it doesn’t just come down to your genes after all.

In fact, following a consistent and effective exercise routine will actually weaken the effects of the FTO gene.  On the other hand, eating poorly every day will have more of an effect on your weight than the gene itself. The inherited fat may become more visible. Therefore, eating unhealthy foods and leading a sedentary lifestyle while having this gene will greatly increase your odds of becoming obese. It will also raise your risk of having to deal with all of the health problems that come with that condition.

Added Obesity Gene Support

Even taking an over-the-counter weight management support product, such as FENFAST 375 or PHENBLUE, can help.  They support you with ingredients chosen to keep you energized to take on your fat burning workouts, focused to keep up with your dieting strategy, and thermogenic ingredients to support your healthy metabolism.

I have actually found that my diet and exercise program have definitely helped me maintain a healthier weight despite inherited fat.  That said, taking a weight management product has given me even more energy to stick with my strategy and ultimately meet my weight loss goals.

Again, Don’t Become Discouraged!

Whether you have the FTO gene or not, don’t become disheartened if you are finding it hard to lose weight. Inherited fat is in your genetic code but isn’t your destiny. While it may be hard to shed those extra pounds if you have the FTO gene, it doesn’t mean that it is impossible. Remember, you can have the gene and still be thin, provided that you eat right and exercise. So don’t give up on your goal for a slim and healthy body just yet.

Make a Plan and Stick with It

Ultimately, the power is in your hands, and on your plate. You can choose how you eat every day and how active you are. Everyone is capable of following a healthy diet and lifestyle if they put their minds to it, even though you might constantly feel tempted by all of the fast food restaurants in town and all of the fatty but convenient foods at the grocery store. While having the FTO obesity gene could make your journey a bit harder, it certainly won’t make it impossible for you.

Need more help creating your plan? Check out this article that can help! A Weight Loss Diet Can Work, but Not if You Keep Up Old Habits!