Energy balance and weight regulation: genetics versus environment.

Content Provider	Scilit
Author	Ravussin, Eric Bogardus, Clifton
Copyright Year	2000
Description	The prevalence of obesity is reaching epidemic proportions in many industrialized countries. There is growing evidence that, even if the trigger of this epidemic is found in changes in the environment, genes are interacting with the environment to cause weight gain. Studies of twins reared apart indicate that approximately two-thirds of the variability in BMI is attributed to genetic factors. From prospective studies in Pima Indians we can ascribe 12% of the variability in BMI to metabolic rate, 5% to fat oxidation, and another probable 10% to the level of spontaneous physical activity. These data indicate that at least 40% of the variability in BMI is related to genetic factors involved in the regulation of food intake and/or volitional activity. This indicates that the most likely successful therapy for obesity may target pathways of the regulation of food intake. Similarly, an environment favouring engagement in physical activity should be promoted.
Related Links	https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/4E5E3CDD3BA6870BF3DA2A2FE773FBC5/S0007114500000908a.pdf/div-class-title-energy-balance-and-weight-regulation-genetics-versus-environment-div.pdf
Ending Page	S20
Page Count	4
Starting Page	S17
ISSN	00071145
e-ISSN	14752662
DOI	10.1017/s0007114500000908
Journal	British Journal Of Nutrition
Issue Number	S1
Volume Number	83
Language	English
Publisher	Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Publisher Date	2000-06-01
Access Restriction	Open
Subject Keyword	British Journal Of Nutrition Biological Psychology Energy Balance Weight Regulation Energy Metabolism
Content Type	Text
Resource Type	Article
Subject	Nutrition and Dietetics Medicine