Know the Genetics Behind Your Eating Habits

Written By: Indus Health Plus Doctors Team

Medically Reviewed | Based on Clinical Guidelines

Last Updated : 04 May 2023

Have you ever thought about what influences your eating habits? Why do you keep eating foods that are not good for your health? And why it takes so much effort to modify them. Or why do you develop addictions?

The answers to all these questions is your genetics.

The variations in the genes is the result of small differences in the DNA stands of each individual. Hence, everyone is genetically unique and therefore has different food, satiety, eating behaviour and taste preferences. Your genes control all processes in your body and influence various traits. They influence the absorption and metabolism of vitamins and minerals. Your genes can also control the response of your body weight to nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, proteins and fiber. 

Decoding your DNA and understanding your genetic structure can help you with ways to take control of your eating habits and create your own personalized diet that is easy for you to follow.  

A higher chocolate intake is associated with some forms of the oxytocin receptor gene. A gene associated with obesity gene plays a role in vegetable and fiber consumption. Similarly, certain genes are involved in fat intake. Such awareness of your genes can help you personalize your food habits in a planned manner. Along with that you can lower your risk for common lifestyle diseases like diabetes, heart ailments and cancer by customizing your diet, exercise, checkups according to your genetics.

A genetic test can help you decode your DNA and take wise decisions about your health. You can know some interesting facts related to your eating behaviour, such as:

• Adiponectin Levels
• Caffeine Metabolism
• Eating between Meals/Snacking
• Response to Green Tea
• Satiety
• Bitter Taste Preference
• Sweet Taste Preference

A genetic test can also tell you about your body's response to various foods and their effect in your weight loss, and the deficiencies you are predisposed to. 

Want to know how you can create your own individual weight management program with a genetic test?