Weight Management and Genetics: The Key to a Healthier You

Weight management represents a genuine challenge for numerous people. The battle of the bulge involves more than just determination because it stems from our genetic structure. Have you ever thought about why some people lose weight without effort yet others struggle to do so? The answer may lie within your DNA.

Genetic Trait

This genetic condition leads to higher body weight and affects a large number of people. This condition develops into obesity which causes multiple health problems.

Trait Overview

Losing weight doesn't appear fair because some people struggle more than others to shed pounds. Certain people experience weight loss and gain with greater ease compared to others. The root cause of these disparities has become clear as we have gained deeper knowledge that our DNA holds the answer. Genetic makeup accounts for as much as 70% of weight differences, separate from the effects of diet and physical activity. Among the over 100 genes that may affect body weight, researchers have studied the FTO gene more extensively than any other. Researchers identified the FTO gene as the first gene associated with weight gain and scientists widely believe it has the most substantial impact. The specific role of this gene in obesity risk remains unclear but it appears to operate by modifying other weight-related genes while enhancing appetite. One particularly well-studied variant of the FTO gene, rs9939609, has been linked to:

If you possess this genetic variant you face an additional challenge compared to others when trying to maintain your weight. There is good news, though. The effectiveness of weight loss methods varies from person to person according to research findings. Exercise is a great example. Research indicates that individuals with this particular FTO variant maintain a healthier weight than others when they engage in physical exercise. People with this genetic variant experience greater benefits from the Mediterranean diet. Variants of FTO similar to rs9939609 function in the same manner. People carrying these variants are more likely to benefit from:

Each individual faces a distinct journey when dealing with weight issues. Understanding your DNA holds the potential to forecast which weight-loss strategies would work best for you leading to improved health and happiness. The report analyzes how genetics determine your body weight. Read more to find out:

• Genetic factors control between 70% and 100% of weight differences between individuals.
• Medical obesity criteria are met by 42% of US adults and 19% of US children.
• The accumulation of body weight can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and heart disease.

Your weight’s genetic influence can be significantly changed through changes in diet and physical activity. Your genetic risk can be mitigated through several actionable steps. Managing weight has become more challenging for people nowadays. Global obesity rates have skyrocketed. Research shows that up to 42% of US adults and 19% of children fulfill medical standards for obesity. Body mass index (BMI) allows doctors to determine if a patient meets obesity standards. Your BMI is found by taking your weight and dividing it by your height squared (kg/m2). You can find numerous online calculators that assist with this calculation process. Western countries define individuals with a BMI of 25 or higher as overweight. A body mass index measurement of 30 or above defines obesity. The definition of obesity in certain Asian nations starts at a BMI of 25. Healthy weight assessment requires more than just BMI measurements. Muscle density exceeds that of fat which makes body composition a critical factor in health assessment. Athletes who have high muscle mass and people with obesity may display identical BMI values. For this reason, doctors and researchers often use other body weight measurements, including:

• Their concern about body weight arises from the importance they place on their physical appearance.
• Body weight influences both mental health and physical health outcomes.

Obesity may increase the risk of:

• Weight gain occurs when your calorie intake exceeds your calorie expenditure. Any excess energy transforms into fat storage within your body. In reality, it’s more complicated than that. Maintaining a healthy weight requires you to manage several factors which include dietary habits. Monitor your food intake both in quantity and type along with the timing of your meals and the size of your portions.
• Lifestyle. Maintaining an "active" lifestyle and ensuring your body receives adequate sleep is preferable to living a "sedentary" lifestyle.
• Environment. What are your family habits? Do you have social support? What is your stress level? Weight management outcomes can unexpectedly change based on these factors.
• Medical conditions. Any factor that modifies your body's metabolic rate or physical exercise capabilities will also influence your body weight.
• Genetics. Certain genetic variations can influence how simple or difficult it is to control body weight. Doctors advise multiple approaches to help patients achieve their healthiest body weight.

Your genetic composition plays a significant role in determining your success at dieting and exercising strategies designed to reduce weight. In some cases obesity escalates into a major health issue. When obesity becomes a serious health problem doctors turn to weight loss medication or surgical options. Genetic factors may explain as much as 70% of the variation in weight between individuals. Genes that may contribute to body weight influence:

• High levels of bioavailable testosterone in the body could lead to a higher obesity risk in women.
• Genetic predisposition to high levels of choline, omega-3 fatty acids, and DHA shows a causal link to reduced obesity risk.

Knowledge about genetic elements that affect weight will help shape personalized strategies for managing weight. Understanding your DNA allows you to create personalized weight loss strategies that promote a healthier lifestyle. Use PlexusDx Precision Health & Wellness tests to receive personalized recommendations that your genetic profile generates. Begin your path to improved health and happiness from today!