In a new study, researchers found that living less than 300 meters from green space may help lower the risk of excess weight or obesity.
The research was led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal).
Using information from the MCC-Spain multi-case control study, the researchers analyzed data on 2,354 people from seven Spanish provinces (Asturias, Barcelona, Cantabria, Madrid, Murcia, Navarre and Valencia).
The study participants, who ranged in age from 20 to 85 years, answered survey questions about their residential history, lifestyle (physical activity, leisure time, etc.), weight and height.
In addition, hip and waist circumference was measured and blood or saliva samples were collected.
To determine whether or not participants were overweight or obese, the researchers used two markers that are commonly used in epidemiologic studies: body mass index and waist-hip ratio.
The study found a strong link between overweight or obesity in women and lack of access to urban green spaces such as parks and gardens. However, no such association was found in men.
Using the DNA samples collected from the participants’ saliva and blood, the researchers analyzed the role of genetics in this association.
In general, they observed a more marked reduction in the risk of obesity in people with a genetic predisposition to this condition.
This finding points to the existence of gene-environment interactions that could either trigger or prevent excess weight gain.
The team says natural outdoor environments, including green spaces within urban settings, promote health and well-being by increasing levels of physical activity, reducing exposure to noise and reducing psychological stress, which is an important driver of weight gain.
The lead author of the study is ISGlobal researcher Cristina O’Callaghan-Gordo.
The study is published in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health.
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