How does exercise impact epigenetics? New research suggests that exercise-induced epigenetic changes (DNA-related changes that can impact genetic expression) reduce the risk of disease.  

Study Summary

This new research, which included 70 pairs of identical twins, found that: 

• The more physically active twin in each pair had health-supportive epigenetic marks contributing to a reduced risk for metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome increases the risk for heart conditions and diabetes. 

The Hearty Take 

These results are significant as identical twins have the same genetics. This study suggests that risk of metabolic disease is heavily influenced by environment-gene reactions, rather than solely inherited genetics. Support beneficial healthspan-related epigenetic changes with lifestyle factors like exercise, sleep and intermittent fasting!