People who have a genetic predisposition to obesity can benefit even more from putting on their gym clothing and exercising, a study has suggested.

Researchers from the Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit in Cambridge found that this genetic predisposition to obesity can be reduced by around 40 per cent if physical activity levels are increased.

Led by Dr Ruth Loos, the researchers studied 20,430 people living in Norwich and measured their activity levels and body mass indices as well as their DNA.

The study has been published in the open-access journal Public Library of Science Medicine.

"Our findings further emphasise the importance of physical activity in the prevention of obesity," the study's authors conclude.

Earlier in the year, a study conducted by Cancer Research UK found that people's genes influence whether they have the urge to exercise or not.

However, the researchers found that the environment that a person grows up in can override a person's urge to exercise.

Posted by Sue Wallis ADNFCR-2569-ID-800049237-ADNFCR

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