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A new study has shown that 35 extra minutes of exercise daily can help curtail episodes of depression, even in those who have an increased genetic risk. Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston found that participants in the study who were physically active were less likely to experience depression, even if they were at higher risk due to genetics. “Our findings strongly suggest that, when it comes to depression, genes are not destiny and that being physically active has the potential to neutralise the added risk of future episodes in individuals who are genetically vulnerable,” says lead researcher Karmel Choi. “On average, about 35 additional minutes of physical activity each day may help people to reduce their risk and protect against future depression episodes,” she adds.

Smart choices

Typically, conversations around environmentally sustainable eating involve some degree of reducing animal products, going vegetarian, or even going vegan. Scott Gooding’s new book, (Hachette, ), sheds light on why eating food that is ethically produced and locally sourced