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Genetics matter when it comes to weight loss. You have suspected this, I know. Anyone who has battled with weight and has watched their co-worker, sibling, friend or spouse scarf down over 1000 calories in one sitting and never gain an ounce will relate. How we perceive our world and how our body reacts to it is filtered through our genetic predispositions. Our food likes and dislikes, our metabolism, how we respond to exercise and types of foods depends is influenced by our genetics. When weight loss is a struggle, it therefore can be helpful to look at those genetic predispositions to gain insights into our own behaviors and the results we get from our current lifestyle.
When the human genome project concluded there was this collective “now what?”. What do we do with this information to help medical progress. Now many years later, researchers have been collecting “Genome Wide Association Data”. Basically looking at what medical problems (such as obesity) are associated with what specific genes and then figuring out what those genes actually do. This information can be used to personalize your weight loss prescription. For example, if you have certain genes the are associated with diabetes, then perhaps a low carb, higher fat food plan is right for you. Alternatively, if you have genes that affect fat metabolism, perhaps a lower fat plan would serve you better. Have you ever wondered why every new diet book proclaims their plan as the best? It is because it is the best for SOMEBODY, the question though should be IS IT BEST FOR YOU?
There are genetic testing that can be helpful to provide some of these insights as to what food plan is best based on your own personal data, what exercise routine would be optimal. Testing can even provide insight into why you may crave foods more than others. Knowing that can arm you for greater success. Personalized medicine is well, personal, and what works for someone else may not work for you.
We may not be able to change the genetics that were passed down to us but we can alter how those genes are expressed. I know for myself confirming what I already knew deep down regarding my body’s predispositions really empowered me to make different choices in my daily habits.
To learn more about how genetic testing could help in your personal health journey visit Sparkle Health.
