Genes and Weight Loss

It is true that we are all genuinely unique. Each of us has the genes to prove it. However, while our genes may dictate our traits and characteristics that make us unique, we do have some control over which genes we activate, especially when it comes to weight. It’s true that researchers searched for the specific gene that controlled weight, but it was finally determined that it didn’t exist. In fact, what does exist are hundreds of genes that can influence weight. And while we might have a predisposition to weight gain, there are strategies to help prevent this from occurring.

The genes that affect our weight loss cannot be altered, but the lifestyle we lead can determine whether these genes turn on or off. Diagnostic testing can reveal whether or not we carry a known gene, or gene variant, that predisposes us to gaining weight. We can also look to our family history, too. Our ancestry will shed light on conditions we might be predisposed to such as weight gain. Knowledge is power, especially in this case. If we know we are predisposed to weight gain based on our family tree, then we can change our lifestyle to prevent weight gain from occurring. We can “turn off” the gene that predisposes us to weight gain by not giving it the fuel it is looking for. Changes in nutrition, exercise, stress, and exposure to toxicity help offset the tendency.

According to the CDC, “obesity is usually the product of complex interactions among multiple genes and environmental factors” rather than a single gene. Which is why a weight loss strategy for one person may be successful and a failure for another. Understanding how unique we really are is a relief. We can know that we simply need to find a strategy that is custom tailored to our specific needs, versus utilizing a “one size fits all” solution when it comes to weight loss.

Understanding and honoring our uniqueness will go a long way to achieving the weight goals we desire.