Genes, Food and Exercise

The classic theory of weight maintenance, balancing intake (food) and output (activity) has been known for years, but Dr. Molly Bray, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center (CNRC) believes there is more to the equation. Dr. Bray explains that all children will become overweight if they are exposed to a high calorie, high fat diet with limited exercise, but some kids become “really” overweight. She asks the question,

“What is the role of genetics in obesity?”

Some new research on obesity suggests that specific genes may contribute to body fatness. Some types of food—such as those high in fat—can affect these genes and contribute to weight gain. These foods may impact the way our bodies process fatty acids and interfere with the signals that tell us we are full.

Some people’s genes put them at greater risk for becoming obese. For these people, the generic or “one size fits all” recommendations for diet and exercise might not work. In the future, people’s specific genes might play a role in the advice they receive for preventing or reversing obesity.

Dr. Bray and others at the CNRC are attempting to answer these important questions.