Mixed
Physical activity attenuates the obesity-increasing genetic effects associated with the FTO locus by approximately 20-30%.
If you have a family history of obesity linked to the FTO gene, regular physical activity is not just beneficial—it is a critical counter-measure. Engaging in regular exercise can reduce the genetic impact on your BMI by 20-30%, proving that lifestyle choices actively modify genetic risk.
A meta-analysis reported that active individuals exhibited around 20% reduction of the BMI-increasing effects of FTO-associated SNPs... supporting previous results reporting 30% attenuation of the genetic effect.
Why this rating
Based on a meta-analysis of GWAS data, which provides strong observational evidence, though the exact biological mechanism remains to be elucidated.
Source
Appraisal of Gene-Environment Interactions in GWAS for Evidence-Based Precision Nutrition Implementation
Rodrigo San-Cristóbal et al. · Current Nutrition Reports · 2022
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