It’s time for some real talk, friends. Do you judge others for their weight? The question can spark some uncomfortable feelings, but it’s crucial to face your subconscious thoughts. After all, in a world of fad diets and Instagram fitness stars, it’s easy to criticize a person’s body without even realizing it. This is especially true if you’re thin, “in shape,” or haven’t experienced periods of weight gain. And while you might credit your build to healthy habits — and other people’s weight gain to the lack thereof — it’s important to know that there’s a lot more to it.
According to a new study from Cambridge University, it’s all about genes. Specifically, researchers found that the weight differences between thin and obese individuals are strongly linked to genetic factors.
In the realm of health and nutrition, it’s already been established that obesity has a genetic (and therefore, hereditary) link. Some genes can influence a person’s body mass index (BMI) and susceptibility to obesity. However, this particular study is especially unique because it examined BMI-related genes from both obese and healthy thin people. In the past, studies about genes and obesity only involved obese and overweight individuals.
Because the participants had more diverse body types, researchers were able to compare and contrast specific genetic traits between them. They discovered that healthy thin people have less of those genes that are linked to a greater chance of weight gain. In other words, thinness isn’t just about healthy habits, but genetics as well.
Though healthy habits are extremely important, there’s a lot more to it. And this particular study is proof.
It’s also significant to note that this study doesn’t just focus on obese and overweight individuals. This could pave the way for more in-depth research with more diverse body types.
In other words, despite what certain studies say, it’s always worth doing your own research to see if there are contradictory studies and opinions from professionals.
And of course, you should always speak to a doctor if you have questions about your own health and wellbeing.
So, what does all of this mean? What are the results saying?
Since researchers proved that healthy thin people are less susceptible to weight gain, they hope to find the genes behind that trait. From there, scientists might be able to help folks who are more likely to develop obesity and its complications.
No matter what your body type, all that matters is that you are healthy and happy.
And again, what’s going on with your body is no one’s business. That is between you and your doctor.
As we learn more about our bodies and why they are the way they are, we must continue to adopt healthy habits that work for us.
What works for one person’s body might not work for yours. So when making any changes to your routine, you should definitely consult a professional.
It also means that thin people aren’t necessarily “better” at habits like portion control and eating in moderation.
Even a person with healthy habits could experience weight gain — simply because of genetics, which is out of their control.
“Skinny” or not, everyone’s body is different, and your body is beautiful just the way it is.
If you’re struggling with self-love, there are role models out there who can inspire you. Just search #bodypositive on Instagram and so many amazing posts will pop up.
If someone you follow is making you feel bad about yourself, unfollowing them could make a world of a difference. Because you deserve to feel good about yourself.
The moral of the story? If you catch yourself wondering why someone can’t “just” eat better or work out, think about this research.
