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Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System

Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System

Published on: May 8, 2018

Thinking evolutionarily about obesity.

Elizabeth A Genné-Bacon¹

¹Department of Genetics, Yale University, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, Connecticut.

The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine

|June 10, 2014

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

The thrifty gene hypothesis for obesity lacks strong evidence. This review explores alternative evolutionary explanations for the obesity epidemic, crucial for developing effective research and clinical strategies.

Keywords:

diabetes evolution metabolic syndrome obesity review thrifty gene hypothesis

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Area of Science:

Evolutionary biology
Metabolic health
Obesity research

Background:

Obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome are increasing global health issues with unclear origins.
The "thrifty gene hypothesis" has long suggested obesity is an evolutionary adaptation to famine.
Limited evidence supports the thrifty gene hypothesis, prompting a re-evaluation of obesity's evolutionary roots.

Purpose of the Study:

To critically examine the evidence supporting and refuting the thrifty gene hypothesis.
To introduce and discuss alternative hypotheses regarding the evolutionary origins of the obesity epidemic.
To highlight the importance of considering these alternative hypotheses for obesity research and management.

Main Methods:

Literature review of evolutionary biology and obesity research.
Analysis of evidence for and against the thrifty gene hypothesis.
Synthesis of alternative evolutionary hypotheses for obesity.

Main Results:

The thrifty gene hypothesis is not well-supported by current evidence.
Several alternative hypotheses offer different perspectives on the evolutionary drivers of obesity.
These alternative hypotheses have significant implications for future research directions and clinical interventions.

Conclusions:

Rethinking the evolutionary basis of obesity is essential.
Alternative hypotheses provide a more comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing the obesity epidemic.
Considering diverse evolutionary perspectives is critical for effective public health strategies against obesity.