The "DNA diet" which is on its way, could be a game changer for the big eaters who are fighting it hard to shed some of those unwanted pounds. In less than 5 years from now, genome-specific diets could be the answer to millions of Americans looking to get rid of the excess pounds from their body, according to researchers reporting in journal Obesity.
The researchers stated further that though the genetic basis for body composition and obesity has been established well, twin and family studies provide evidence that the genetic makeup of a person plays a role in the response to weight gain or weight loss. In recent years, scientists have also made significant strides in connecting weight struggles with DNA.
Molly Bray, a professor of nutritional science at the University of Texas, Austin , who is the lead author of this study, stated that in his opinion, in the next five years or less, we can expect to see people start benefiting from a combination of behavioral, genetic and other sophisticated data for development personalized weight management plans.
Yet, Couch potatoes do not have much to be elated from this scientific development since they would still have to resort to exercise and the DNA diet by itself cannot be of help on its own strength. But, the good news is that when a personalized diet is developed based on the present findings, it could provide people with the right directions in finding the most appropriate food to shed the extra pounds permanently.
Bray also added that while the current programs are pretty good in helping people shed fat in the short run, the stats for long term weight loss appears rather dismal. The process of weight regain has not been understood by us very well either from a biological standpoint or behavioral attributes.
He added further that with the Nation fighting a losing battle against obesity, nutritionists and doctors need everything under their command to help patients in maintaining optimal and healthy weight. Obesity is one of the biggest problems in our times with about a third of the nation's population considered overweight.
Bray concluded saying that preventing obesity would constitute the best approach, but with millions of people currently overweight or obese, framing long-term weight loss strategies is a dire need, and that would ultimately improve the overall health.
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