Can a person's DNA be changed by something, such as exercise? The answer is absolutely yes.

A recent study in the March issue of Cell Metabolism conducted by scientists from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, reveals that DNA molecules in muscles are chemically altered after just 20 minutes of relatively strenuous exercise.

The researchers examined 14 healthy inactive men and women as they used an exercise bike at various activity levels, and analyzed a small amount of the participants' muscle tissue for chemical changes.

They find out that although the genetic makeup was not altered, the DNA molecules within the participants' muscles changed structurally and chemically when they exercised.

"Our muscles are really plastic. We often say 'You are what you eat.' Well, muscle adapts to what you do," Professor Juleen Zierath, the study leader said.

The research shows the great benefits of exercise for everyone, as what Zierath said, "Exercise is medicine, and it seems the means to alter our epigenomes for better health may be only a jog away." (Agencies)

VietNamNet/Xinhuanet