Gene–diet interaction and weight loss

Abstract

Purpose of review The purpose of this review is to summarize recent advances in investigations of dietary factors, genetic factors, and their interactive effects on obesity and weight loss. Recent findings Even with a tremendous body of research conducted, controversy still abounds regarding the relative effectiveness of various weight-loss diets. Recent advances in genome-wide association studies have made great strides in unraveling the genetic basis of regulation of body weight. In prospective cohorts, reproducible evidence is emerging to show interactions between genetic factors and dietary factors such as sugar-sweetened beverage on obesity. In randomized clinical trials, individuals’ genotypes have also been found to modify diet interventions on weight loss, weight maintenance, and changes in related metabolic traits such as lipids, insulin resistance, and blood pressure. However, replication, functional exploration, and translation of the findings into personalized diet interventions remain the chief challenges. Summary Preliminary but promising data have emerged to lend support to gene–diet interaction in determining weight loss and maintenance; and studies in the area hold great promise to inform future personalized diet interventions on the reduction of obesity and related health problems.

Gene-Gene Interplay and Gene-Diet Interactions Involving the <b><i>MTNR1B </i></b>rs10830963 Variant with Body Weight Loss

“…On the other hand, other trials have demonstrated that the response of subjects to diet might be different depending on the genotype [48,49]. In the recruited population, baseline total protein and animal protein intake significantly modified the effect of the MTNR1B genetic variant on body weight loss.…”

Starch Digestion–Related Amylase Genetic Variant Affects 2-Year Changes in Adiposity in Response to Weight-Loss Diets: The POUNDS Lost Trial

“…Compelling evidence has shown that diets varying in macronutrient composition are effective in promoting weight loss, but extensive interindividual variation exists in the effectiveness of dietary intervention to achieve weight loss and weight stability, and individual genetic makeup has long been suggested to affect individual responses to weight-loss intervention (32–34). In the current study, we demonstrated that the genotype associated with carbohydrate metabolism partly accounts for such variance.…”

Nutrition Education in an Era of Global Obesity and Diabetes

“…This conundrum is at the core of "epigenetics," which is an accepted scientific frontier and includes an exploration of gene-diet interactions in determining weight loss and maintanence. 51,52 So, let us consider that "personalized medicine" in the 21st century will involve a combination of timeless wisdom regarding diet, mental reflection, and physical activity, in addition to new knowledge generated through biomedical discovery and advances in genetics, diagnosis, disease treatment, and technology. A nearly exclusive focus on high-tech strategies, however, will not meet societal needs.…”