BLOG 21 GENETICS

BLOG 21 GENETICS

Our genetic makeup is special and unique to each of us. The genes we were born with have created the person we are today. Research suggests that our genetic makeup does affect our weight and body type. Environment still is the leading cause of obesity (our lifestyle habits), but what we are born with can cause weight gain.

It is important to first understand that genetics leads to weight gain, but studies have not indicated that obesity is caused by genetics. To begin, “Studies indicate that 40-70% of the difference between individuals with respect to body fatness can be attributed to genetics.” (http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=1&art_id=20791&sc=801). Lets start at the beginning with one’s birth weight. This can be influenced by the fetus’s environment and either having a high or low birth rate can affect us later in life.

A person’s genetic makeup doesn’t entirely predict their weight in the future. A really important element to consider is that, “It is now widely recognized that the influence of genes extends to weight-related behaviors as well.⁴ Food preferences, dietary patterns and exercise behaviors are all likely to be determined, in part, by genes” (http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=1&art_id=20791&sc=801). This isn’t to say we can totally blame mom and dad for loving ice cream, but maybe we can explain the origin of our sweet tooth or cravings for salty and savory foods. We still ultimately make all our own choices.

There are 3 genes that influence weight. Higher levels of leptin are found in obese people. To summarize what leptin is: “Often referred to as the ‘obesity hormone,’ leptin is made by fat cells and acts as a thermostat for the body’s energy needs. Each individual has his own leptin threshold; if leptin levels fall below that amount, the brain understands that the body is starving, and needs more calories. If leptin levels are maintained or surge above that amount, the brain knows that it doesn’t need to take in more food” (http://healthland.time.com/2013/07/19/news-genes-idd-in-obesity-how-much-of-weight-is-genetic/). Ghrelin is another gene: “This gene makes an appetite hormone that can make foods look more desirable–especially high-calorie ones — by influencing the brain’s reward system. Some studies have found that  people who are sleep-deprived have increased ghrelin levels, which may explain why lack of sleep can contribute to weight gain” (http://healthland.time.com/2013/07/19/news-genes-idd-in-obesity-how-much-of-weight-is-genetic/). Finally we have Neuropeptide Y: “One of the brain’s many chemicals, neuropeptide Y may trigger eating by manipulating appetite, possibly resulting from changes in mood and stress levels. It may also contribute to an increased deposition of fat from food calories” (http://healthland.time.com/2013/07/19/news-genes-idd-in-obesity-how-much-of-weight-is-genetic/. Notice how the genes influences our decision making. Couple these genes with a poor environment that lacks the qualities needed to sustain a healthy lifestyle,  and one is setting themselves up for weight gain and bad health.

Genetics can also play a part in two diseases associated with obesity which are Bardet-Biedl syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome (http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/calories/other_factors.html). Bardet-Biedl syndrome affects many parts of the body and, “Obesity is another characteristic feature of Bardet-Biedl syndrome. Abnormal weight gain typically begins in early childhood and continues to be an issue throughout life. Complications of obesity can include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and abnormally high cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia)” (http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/bardet-biedl-syndrome). Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder in which, “Beginning in childhood, affected individuals develop an insatiable appetite, which leads to chronic overeating (hyperphagia) and obesity” (http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/prader-willi-syndrome).

When I look at my family there are not a lot of overweight people. Each member has had their ups and downs with weight and sometimes that’s a reflection of current life situations. Ultimately, “Biology is not destiny” (http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=1&art_id=20791&sc=801). When I initially assess a person I do want to know their family history and like to discover the environment they are product of. This gives me an idea of any predispositions or behavioral changes that may need to take place.

As always, we will fight the battle of weight gain together…. one rep at a time. Regardless of surrounding circumstances, our fitness journeys must carry on and we must push forward. Results may vary, but changes do happen. We will prove the gene pool wrong and keep the weight off!!!!