Obesity: Pre-programmed or Influenced?

A study by the University College London claims that obesity in children is likely to be highly influenced by their genes. Their study revealed that Body Mass Index (BMI) rates, and thus obesity, can be 77% based on our genetics. Although the study states that the chances of somebody being obese can be partially predetermined by their genes, a balanced diet and regular exercise are important in maintaining a healthy life-style regardless of one's BMI rate. (BMI can be calculated here)

Twins reared together are effective in studying the relationship between genes versus environment on obesity because they have the same genetic make-up and are generally exposed to similar diets. The results from these studies have showed that although obesity is influenced by environment and eating habits, it is largely affected by a person's genes. Professor Jane Wardle, who led the study, emphasized that "These results do not mean that a child with a high complement of susceptibility genes will inevitably become overweight, but that their genetic endowment gives them a stronger predisposition."  A child who is likely to have excessive weight gain due to their genes isn't indefinitely going to be obese; eating healthy and working hard to maintain a regular exercise schedule can help balance one's weight.

Twin studies have helped reveal the truth behind susceptibility of obesity, but naturally, there is still criticism regarding the credibility of these studies. Dr. Helen Wallace of GeneWatch UK stated that "It is impossible to draw reliable conclusions about the importance of genetic effects from twin data alone." Nevertheless, Wardle affirmed that "It is wrong to place all the blame for a child's excessive weight gain on the parents - it is more likely to be due to the child's genetic susceptibility." 

Obesity 'may be largely genetic'. (2008, February 7). Retrieved from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/7230065.stm