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Energy balance and weight regulation: genetics versus environment

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  09 March 2007

Eric Ravussin  and
Clifton Bogardus
Eric Ravussin*
Affiliation:
Eli Lilly and Co., Clinical Diabetes and Nutrition Section, NIDDK, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA
Clifton Bogardus
Affiliation:
Eli Lilly and Co., Clinical Diabetes and Nutrition Section, NIDDK, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA
*
*Corresponding author: E. Ravussin, fax +1 317 276 9574, email eric.ravussin@lilly.com
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Abstract

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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.

Keywords

Energy balanceWeight regulationObesityGeneticsEnvironmentEnergy metabolism
Type
Research Article
Information
British Journal of Nutrition , Volume 83 , Issue S1 , June 2000 , pp. S17 - S20
Copyright
Copyright © The Nutrition Society 2000

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