Inadequate nutrition or “wrong” genes? – Genetic predisposition to overweight and obesity

Hans-Peter Hanssen, Hamburg

To maintain homoeostasis of energy stores associated with changing food supply and energy consumption, a complex genetically fixed regulating system has been established during evolution. This was reasonable particularly at times of food shortage and famines. At times of abundance and low physical activity, however, this genetic predisposition may turn into an “adipoid trap”.

It is estimated that 60–84 % of body weight and fat mass are polygenetically determined. Rational forms of therapy of adipositas – the most frequent nutritional disease in many industrialized countries – may result from a better understanding of these genetically fixed regulating systems. So far, the results of weight reduction by pharmaceuticals or diets have been disappointing rather.

Key words: adipoid trap, adipositas, body weight, leptin, obesity, overweight

Sie finden den Artikel in deutscher Sprache in Ernährungs Umschau 04/07 ab Seite 195.