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Research Often cravings for chocolate? It can be your genes
Some people love to eat chocolate. Other people may prefer salty chips or eat mostly vegetables. Researchers have now discovered that our aversions and special dietary preferences are influenced by our genes.
Researchers at Tufts University in Boston found that special aversions and eating preferences are related to our genes. The physicians published the results of their study in the journal "The FASEB Journal".
Some people have problems with their eating habits. For example, there are people who really crave chocolate or chips. Physicians are now investigating what effect our genes have on our eating habits. (Image: Knut Wiarda) Researchers discover connection between genes and food preferences
The current study looked at 818 adults and found a link between our genes and the likes and dislikes in our eating habits. For example, some of these gene variants were known to be associated with an increased risk of obesity, the experts explain. Others are involved in hormone regulation.
Understanding genetics can lead to more individualized diet advice
The findings show that food preferences are partly related to genetic variations, the researchers explain. Some researchers believe that understanding genetics behind food preferences will lead to more individualized diet advice. This type of research is called nutrigenomics. So far, it is unlikely that a nutritionist will analyze their DNA, the experts add.
Genes affect the taste receptors
Past studies have already found a correlation between gene variations and the taste of humans for certain foods. For the most part, our genes have an impact on our taste receptors, says author Silvia Berciano of Tufts University.
On which genes were the physicians particularly focused?
The research team was particularly focused on certain genes associated with behavioral and psychological traits (such as depression or addiction). The experts wanted to find out if there is a connection with any eating habits.
How does the FTO gene affect you??
In general, the researchers found in the study that there were correlations between multiple genes and food preferences. Variations in a gene called FTO, which is associated with obesity, have been implicated, for example, in vegetable and fiber consumption. It is possible that the so-called FTO gene affects both the risk of obesity and the desire of people for vegetables, says Berciano. Could this link exist because people susceptible to obesity are likely to be vegetable lovers? This explanation is extremely unlikely, explains the author.
SLC6A2 gene affects fat intake
Different genes affect our eating habits. For example, a gene called SLC6A2 regulates hormones such as norepinephrine. The researchers found that it is also related to fat intake.
Long-term dietary habits can be changed
Variations in a gene that regulates oxytocin are usually involved in attachment, mood, and other behaviors. The gene is also associated with the consumption of chocolate and an increased weight, the researchers report. However, sufferers should not think that their genes are forcing them to consume increased amounts of chocolate. With support, many years of eating habits can be changed, emphasize the experts.
Results could lead to improved diet plans
An understanding of how genetic differences influence the neuronal regulation of eating behavior can, according to the researchers, lead to a better prediction of individual behavioral tendencies. This could enable the development of diet plans that are easier for those affected to comply with. (As)