Ever wonder how genetics affect your weight? Could a genome-specific diet help you slim down? The latest research shows that anyone can lose weight by eating according to their DNA. It seems that genome-based diets can rev up metabolism and improve the body’s ability to use fat for fuel.
Nutrition and the Human Genome
Hundreds of studies have found a strong link between nutrition and genetics. The human genome may strongly affect how food is processed by the body. Clinical trials conducted on families and twins indicate that a person’s genetic makeup influences his ability to lose or gain weight. With this information, scientists are planning to create custom diets to help obese and overweight people.
There is even a name for the connection between the human genome and nutrition. This discipline is known as nutrigenomics and aims to prevent chronic diseases by targeting dietary recommendations to a person’s genes. A diet that’s based on your DNA could help prevent and reduce high cholesterol, obesity, heart disease, and even cancer.
What Does a Perfect Diet Look Like?
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to weight loss. Nutrigenomics explains why two people who follow the same diet can end up with a different body weight and different health parameters. Certain industries have already launched meal plans, foods, and diet products based on this concept.
According to researchers, a perfect diet is one that matches your genes. This discovery could lead to the development of specialized nutrition plans to eradicate obesity. It also explains why most diets available today fail in the long run.
As a rule of thumb, protein should always be served alongside high-fiber foods, such as green leafy vegetables. To keep your metabolism up, eat once every three to four hours. Skipping meals doesn’t lead to weight loss. Remember to drink plenty of water and stay active. Regular exercise helps burn calories and improves muscle tone.