Overeating could be linked to genetics
Overeating could be linked to genetics
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Monday, 12, Jan 2009 07:16
Scientists claim to have found new evidence linking the tendency to overeat with genetics.
Researchers claim people who continued to eat despite being full were more likely to have a version of the FTO gene.
A study published in the International Journal of Obesity today observed the behaviour of 120-odd four to five year olds who were offered biscuits after they had eaten a meal.
The authors found the children who ate the biscuits were more likely to have one or two of the 'higher' risk versions of the FTO gene.
They suggest their findings could pave the way for a better understanding of the processes which leads to children becoming overweight or obese.
Lead author, Professor Jane Wardle, director of Cancer Research UK's health behaviour research centre at UCL, said: "We believe this research published today tells us more about how some children are more responsive to signals in their bodies encouraging them to eat when full than others.
"Knowing how the genes work is the first step to minimising these negative effects."
She added it was hoped the research would help improve understanding of the causes of childhood obesity so that better measures can be taken to reduce it.
"Children with higher risk versions of the gene might be helped if parents do their bit to keep temptations out of the home," Prof Wardle continued.
"The occasional treat won't do us any harm – but this study showed that some children don't know when to stop – which could lead to the onset of obesity and a lifetime of health problems."
Previous research has shown obesity increases the risk of cancer of the bowel, womb, kidney and post–menopausal breast cancer.
It is thought around 12,000 people each year could avoid cancer in the UK by maintaining a healthy body weight.