When it comes to staying slim, genetics plays a major part, but also important? Your spouse. A new study led by Professor Chris Haley at the University of Edinburgh's Human Genetics Unit studied a person's home environment in childhood and adulthood alongside their genetics and found that the life you build for yourself as an adult can beat out the cards Mother Nature might have handed you.
"Although genetics accounts for a significant proportion of the variation between people, our study has shown that the environment you share with your partner in adulthood also influences whether you become obese, and this is more important than your upbringing," Haley said. "The findings also show that even people who come from families with a history of obesity can reduce their risk by changing their lifestyle habits."
It's not shocking to hear that a couple who decides to jointly focus on healthy eating and exercising will be more fit than those who don't, but the idea that it could be just as important as your genes is significant. Instead of feeling doomed by a family profile, people should feel optimistic that making positive changes can have a big impact—especially when it's supported by your significant other. Conversely, watch your guy: If he's got a junk-food habit he just can't quit, it could be affecting you too.
And just in case you need a little motivation for hitting the gym, we've got a couple's workout that more or less counts as date night.