Still can’t get off the couch? Two studies published this week (covered in this post and the next) might get you going, as they provide fresh evidence regarding the benefits of physical activity.

In the first one, investigators studied a group of Amish people who had particularly potent genetic versions of an obesity-producing gene known as FTO. The gene is common in people of European descent.

Was it their fate to be overweight? Actually, no.

The investigators categorized the group by activity level, and found that those who were very physically active (farmers, for example) weighed the same as those without the gene. Those in the least active category were overweight or obese most of the time. Exercise trumped the obesity gene!

The active group burned about 900 calories per day more than the sedentary group, which is the equivalent of walking 3-4 hours per day. That’s not going to be possible for many people. Nevertheless, the investigators called for more bike paths, better public transportation systems and private sector initiatives that would foster increased physical activity on a broad scale.

People who purchase Ayurvedic medicines online may want to consider buying something else.

That’s because Boston University scientists tested 200 Ayurvedic products purchased over the Internet, and found that 20% of them contained detectable levels of arsenic, lead or mercury. Sometimes the levels of these metals were dangerously high.

Ayurveda is an herbal-based health practice that began 2,000 years ago in India. Its origins are linked to the legendary Dharvarhari (pictured) who received insights directly from Brahma, the Hindu god of creation. More than 80% of Indians practice Ayurveda right now, and the practice has gained popularity in the US.

Ayurvedic medicines are categorized into herbal only and Rasa Shastra by the methods used to prepare them. To create Rasa Shastra medicines, practitioners deliberately add metals, gems and minerals to the herbs.

The BU investigators found that samples from both categories of Ayurvedic medicines contained toxic metals, but the Rasa Shastra samples were twice as likely to contain them, and they contained higher levels of the metals.

Rasa Shastra practitioners believe their medicines are safe if prepared properly. The BU researchers think otherwise. They want regulators to establish “safe levels” of these toxic metals in herbal supplements and require that manufacturers get their products tested before they are released to market.