Posted by
on Dec 26th, 2015 and filed under Precision weight loss based on genetics may be future of dieting – UPI.com
AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 25 (UPI) — Scientists at the University of Texas predict in a new study that within five years doctors will design diets based on individual patients’ genes.
While they say five years, the researchers said better analytical tools will need to be created in order to quickly understand the relationship between genetics, behavior, and weight-related diseases.
The potential that several genes are involved with weight gain, loss, and regain also poses a challenge, they said. While a gene has been found that causes energy from food to be stored as fat instead of burned for energy, variations in the gene and how it interacts with other genes can vary from person to person.
“When people hear that genes may be playing a role in their weight loss success, they don’t say, ‘Oh great, I just won’t exercise any more,'” said Molly Bray, a geneticist and professor of nutritional sciences at the University of Texas Austin, in a press release. “They actually say ‘Oh thank you. Finally someone acknowledges that it’s harder work for me than it is for others.’ And then I think they’re a little more forgiving of themselves, and they’re more motivated to make a change.”
Researchers in the study, published in the journal Obesity, analyzed genetic tests, genomic research, and research on weight change. They found that while some genes related to weight have been identified, there’s a lack of understanding on how they actually effect weight.
Bray said gains in data collection on weight gain and loss, and better sensors to monitor environment, diet, activity, and stress, will help. And when combined with genomic data using a computer algorithm, the researchers say the development of analysis tools is not far off.
“I think within five years, we’ll see people start to use a combination of genetic, behavioral and other sophisticated data to develop individualized weight management plans,” said Bray.
Related UPI Stories
Latest Headlines
‘Victorian’ disease resurgence in England follows global pattern 1 day ago
LONDON, Dec. 24 (UPI) — Increases in Victorian-era diseases such as tuberculosis and cholera in England mirror rises around the world, several recent reviews of data have shown.
Surgical castration less risky treatment for prostate cancer 1 day ago
BOSTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) — While chemical and surgical castration are both effective against prostate cancer, researchers say the choice is between aesthetics and side effects.
Study: Glaucoma patients need better education on marijuana 1 day ago
WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) — Glaucoma patients need better education on the potential benefits of marijuana on their condition, according to a study by George Washington University.
Smoking bans may be more effective than raising taxes 2 days ago
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Dec. 23 (UPI) — New research shows that smoking bans are more effective at discouraging smoking than raising taxes, though both are effective at reducing tobacco use.
‘Kangaroo care’ linked to fewer low birth weight infant deaths 2 days ago
BOSTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) — Kangaroo mother care, or continuous skin-to-skin contact, can reduce rates of low birth weight infant death, according to a review of studies.
High number of IBS patients also vitamin D deficient 2 days ago
SHEFFIELD, England, Dec. 23 (UPI) — Scientists have found an association between vitamin D deficiency and severity of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, according to a new study.
Study: Higher number of IVF cycles beneficial 2 days ago
BRISTOL, England, Dec. 23 (UPI) — A new study in England shows repeated IVF cycles increase the chance for pregnancy as two-thirds of patients are successful after six or more cycles.
Diabetes drug could treat, prevent preeclampsia in pregnant women 2 days ago
MELBOURNE, Dec. 23 (UPI) — The diabetes drug metformin may help doctors treat and prevent preeclampsia in pregnant women, according to a new study.
Americans drinking themselves to death at record rates 2 days ago
ATLANTA, Dec. 23 (UPI) — Americans are drinking themselves to death at record rates, even without counting deaths from DUIs, according to a new government report.
Trial: Immunotherapy more effective than chemo for lung cancer 3 days ago
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 22 (UPI) — The immunotherapy drug Keytruda was found to be more effective against lung cancer than chemotherapy, according to a study conducted at UCLA.
