[BigUmp56]

What other ways might genes influence obesity?

It has been argued that the thrifty genotype is just part of a wider spectrum of ways in which genes can favor fat accumulation in a given environment. These ways include the tendency to overeat (poor regulation of appetite and satiety); tendency to be sedentary (physically inactive); diminished ability to use dietary fats as fuel; and enlarged, easily stimulated capacity to store body fat. It is noticeable that not all people living in industrialized countries with abundant food are or will become obese; nor will all obese people suffer the same health consequences. The variation in how people respond to the same environmental conditions suggests that genes also play a role in the development of obesity. This diversity occurs even among groups of the same racial or ethnic background and within families living in the same environment. All of these observations are consistent with the theory that obesity results from the interaction of genetic variation with shifting environmental conditions.


Genomics



Genetics

How do genes affect obesity?

Science shows that genetics plays a role in obesity. Genes can directly cause obesity in disorders such as Bardet-Biedl syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome.

However genes do not always predict future health. Genes and behavior may both be needed for a person to be overweight. In some cases multiple genes may increase one’s susceptibility for obesity and require outside factors; such as abundant food supply or little physical activity.

For more information on the genetics and obesity visit Obesity and Genetics: A Public Health Perspective.

Contributing Factors


Genetic predisposition may not be health destiny, but studies indicate that inherited genetic variation is an important risk factor for obesity. Evidence from twin, adoption and family studies strongly suggests that biological relatives exhibit similarities in maintenance of body weight. Genetic factors also are beginning to be implicated in the degree of effectiveness of diet and physical activity interventions for weight reduction.

These genetic risk factors tend to be familial, but are not inherited in a simple manner; they may reflect many genetic variations, and each variation may contribute a small amount of risk and may interact with environmental elements to produce the clinical condition of obesity.


Medical Moment




I could go on posting numerous sources that support what Darien's already said. I've yet to find a single one that would agree with Fitty'.



Tim.