'Skinny Genes' Make Weight Loss Simpler For Some People

The secret to weight loss might be found in specific genetic profiles, a study from the University of Essex in collaboration with Anglia Ruskin University suggests. Researchers, led by Dr. Henry Chung, discovered that 14 genetic markers significantly enhance weight loss rates. These "skinny genes" were found to double the weight loss among participants who engaged in a simple exercise of running for 20 to 30 minutes, three times a week, over an eight-week period. This is prepared by SSP.

The study involved 38 previously inactive adults, ages 20 to 40, from the U.K. Midlands and East Anglia. Participants maintained their usual diet while undergoing genomic screening for around 1,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). These SNPs, as tiny variations in the genetic code, were pivotal, particularly one called PPARGC1A, responsible for 62% of the weight lost, while 37% was due to exercise and lifestyle. Participants with more "favorable" genes shed up to 5kg, compared to an average of 2kg for those without such genetic traits.

Despite the notable genetic influence, Dr. Chung emphasizes the importance of lifestyle and exercise for effective weight management, highlighting benefits beyond weight loss like cardiovascular health and mental well-being. He notes: "It doesn't matter what genes you have; exercise unlocks their potential." Even participants without the advantageous genetic variations improved their cardiovascular fitness significantly.

The findings aim to pave the way for personalized health interventions tailored to individual genetic profiles, suggesting future possibilities in personalized diet and exercise plans. Dr. Chung’s study reinforces the importance of exercise, portraying it as crucial even for those not witnessing immediate changes on the scale. This research holds promise for more successful health outcomes by recognizing genetic predispositions in weight management. Nonetheless, the principles of a healthy lifestyle—regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mental health—remain universally beneficial.

Earlier, SSP reported that scientists recreated web-slinging technology from Spider-Man.