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Genetic influence on appetite in children
S Carnell1, C M A Haworth, R Plomin
1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Cancer Research UK Health Behaviour Research Centre, University College London, London, UK.
International Journal of Obesity (2005)
|August 6, 2008
Summary
Genetics significantly influences appetite, with high heritability for satiety and food cue responsiveness in children. These appetitive traits are linked to obesity risk, suggesting genetic vulnerability operates through behavioral pathways.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Genetics
- Obesity Research
- Pediatric Nutrition
Background:
- Modern environments promote obesity, yet individual weight variation is substantial.
- Genetically determined appetite differences may influence obesity susceptibility.
- Appetitive traits are implicated in weight regulation and obesity development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the genetic and environmental contributions to satiety responsiveness.
- To determine the genetic and environmental influences on responsiveness to food cues.
- To investigate the role of appetite in obesity susceptibility.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a population-based sample of 8- to 11-year-old twins (n=5435 pairs).
- Parents completed validated questionnaire measures for children's satiety responsiveness.
- Parents also completed validated questionnaire measures for children's responsiveness to food cues.
Main Results:
- Heritability estimates for satiety responsiveness were 63% and for food cue responsiveness were 75%.
- Shared environmental influences were 21% for satiety and 10% for food cue responsiveness.
- Non-shared environmental influences were 16% for satiety and 15% for food cue responsiveness.
Conclusions:
- High heritability of appetitive traits suggests genetic vulnerability to weight gain operates via behavioral pathways.
- Interventions targeting satiety and food cue responsiveness may help prevent obesity.
- Understanding genetic influences on appetite is crucial for personalized obesity prevention strategies.
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