Genes And Other Factors Work Together In Determining Body Weight

The most recent estimates suggest that around 90 genes in our genomes are capable of influencing our body weight. Interestingly, many of these genes control the processes in the brain. Appetite is a phenomenon created by our neural system, so it shouldn't come as a big surprise that genes controlling the brain’s work also control the body weight.

It is not clear, at the present time, to which degree our body weight is controlled by genes. Some researchers suggest that a tendency to experience gains in body fat is heritable in 80 percent of cases, while others downplay the influence of genetics and believe that lifestyle choices have a dominant impact on a person's body weight. The study on mice mentioned above emphasized the importance of genetics in controlling obesity in humans and shows a strong link between DNA and the percentage of fat gained when a high-carb or high-calorie diet is consumed.

Environment And Obesity

Apart from diet and genetics, there are certain other factors too that contribute to obesity. The most accepted consensus view puts the genetic influence on obesity at about 40 percent. The remaining 60 percent comes down to environmental factors.

• The type of food one consumes.
• The quantity of food intake during each meal
• The amount of fruit and vegetables consumed
• The level of physical activity attainable
• The amount of sugary drinks or high calorie food consumed
• Diet and exercise habits of people in an individual’s immediate environment

The rapid increase in obesity over the past years cannot be due to genetic changes. The technology, transport and the overall environment are the main causes of the obesity epidemics.

Other Factors Contributing To Obesity

• Psychological factors: Feelings of low self-esteem, depression, stress, boredom, trauma, anxiety are some of the psychological factors that may result an individual to binge or overeat and under-exercise. It’s advisable to identify the main causes of overeating or the psychological distress either with the help of a professional or family and friends to prevent obesity.
• Illness: There are certain diseases or illnesses which may also result in obesity or weight gain like hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome, Cushing’s disease or other neurological problems.
• Drugs: The use of certain drugs such as steroids and certain antidepressants may also result in obesity or weight gain.

A doctor or a professional is the best person to let you know the main reason contributing to weight gain or making weight loss difficult is any illness, medication or psychological. No doubt, genes may determine who may become obese, but our environment determines how many of these people actually gain excessive weight. It is better to prevent obesity by making healthy choices and changing our environment rather than blame our parents and grandparents.

See Also: Types Of Diets: Which Diet Really Works? Low-Fat And Low-Carb Diets