2023-08-03 21:41:48
New Study Reveals a Genetic Advantage for ‘Metabolically Healthy Overweight’ Individuals
Researchers have discovered that some overweight individuals are actually protected against the negative effects typically associated with obesity. The study, published in the journal eLife, highlights the existence of a special group known as ‘metabolically healthy overweight’ people.
According to Mete Civelek, one of the researchers involved in the study, “Metabolically healthy overweight is a condition in which people who would normally be at risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes due to their weight are actually shielded from those negative effects.”
The research team, led by Yonathan Aberra, investigated certain genetic variations that may increase the risk of developing belly fat. There are several regions in our DNA that appear to contribute to the propensity for excess abdominal fat. Surprisingly, the researchers found that five genetic variations played an unexpected role in the body.
“In a surprising twist, these five areas have been found to lower a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes,” Aberra revealed.
Despite this genetic advantage, excess abdominal fat remains a significant risk factor for various diseases in a large portion of the population. Only a small proportion of overweight individuals possess the genetic makeup that protects them from type 2 diabetes.
The researchers suggest that doctors should take more than just hip and waist measurements into account when assessing the risk of metabolic syndrome, a condition that can increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease. Considering an individual’s genetic factors could provide a clearer picture of their overall health.
“The assessment can be quite simple, at least for a certain group of people,” explained the researchers. This finding indicates that in the future, doctors may need to consider genetic factors when advising patients.
The revelation of this unexpected genetic advantage for certain overweight individuals provides new insights into how our bodies respond to weight gain and its associated health risks. Further research in this area could potentially lead to more personalized approaches to obesity and related diseases.
The study’s findings emphasize the importance of viewing weight and health as complex and multifaceted. It highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s genetic predispositions and metabolic profile in order to provide effective and tailored healthcare solutions.]
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