‘Skinny genes’ make it easier for some to lose weight – study
Many work out and eat right to fit into skinny jeans, but some have it easier with “skinny genes.”
Researchers from the University of Essex and Anglia Ruskin University found that these hereditary traits helped them lose more weight than others.
READ: First CRISPR medicine now in the US
Article continues after this advertisementAs a result, their findings suggest that weight loss is different for everyone, so they should choose the ideal ones.
How did researchers find these ‘skinny genes?’
14 "Skinny" Genes Linked to Enhanced Weight Loss
— Neuroscience News (@NeuroscienceNew) October 10, 2024
Recent research has identified 14 genes that significantly boost weight loss when combined with regular moderate exercise.
Participants with a higher count of these genes lost up to 5kg over eight weeks, compared to 2kg for those… pic.twitter.com/scg9cDa8RP
ScienceAlert says the British researchers gathered 38 volunteers between 23 and 40. Then, they divided the participants into a control group and an exercise group.
The latter performed three 20 to 30-minute runs weekly over two months. “We hypothesized that eight weeks of endurance training could reduce body mass…,” the researchers wrote in their published paper.
Article continues after this advertisement“… but participants would improve at different rates. That could be explained, in part, by their genetic differences.”
Of course, those who took the running routine lost weight. However, they lost pounds at varying rates, so the researchers checked their genes.
They found 14 “skinny genes” related to greater weight loss. Those with these traits lost 5 kg (11 lbs) on average. In contrast, the average was 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
The researchers highlighted a particular gene called PPARGC1A, which promotes PGC-1-a protein production.
This specific protein affects how cells process and manage energy.
Moreover, the researchers wrote in their paper in the Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport:
“The findings in this study confirm the relevance and potential application of genetics within exercise and weight management.”
“As observed, the human genome plays a crucial role and has many interactions with exercise-based responses and adaptations.”
However, they reiterated that effort and action are still important in maintaining our weight, regardless of these skinny genes.
“This study highlighted some important genes associated with taking inches off the jeans…,” said exercise scientist Henry Chung.
“…but it’s important to remember that genes will do nothing without exercise and lifestyle changes,” the University of Essex expert explained.
