How heredity affects metabolism and weight

How heredity affects metabolism and weight

I. Metabolism: Fundamentals and components

Metabolism, or metabolism, is a complex biochemical process that provides the body with the energy necessary to maintain life. This process includes anabolism (building complex molecules from simple) and catabolism (splitting complex molecules for energy). The rate of metabolism, or the rate of metabolism (owls) is determined by the amount of energy that the body consumes over a certain period of time.

Council consists of several key components:

• Basal metabolism (BM): This is the minimum amount of energy necessary to maintain the main life functions at rest (breathing, heart function, maintaining body temperature, etc.). BM is the largest part of the total energy consumption (approximately 60-75%).

• Thermal effect of food (TEP): This is the amount of energy that the body consumes on digestion, assimilation and metabolism of food. TEP is about 10% of the total energy consumption. Different nutrients have different heaps: proteins require more energy for digestion than carbohydrates and fats.

• Physical activity (FA): This is the amount of energy that the body consumes on movement and physical exercises. Fa varies depending on the level of human activity and can be from 15% to 30% (or even more) from the total energy consumption.

• Involuntary activity (NEAT): This is energy spent on activities not related to targeted physical exercises, such as fingers tapping, walking around the room, changing the position of the body. Neat can vary significantly between people and makes a significant contribution to the overall consumption of energy.

II. Genetics and metabolism: the role of heredity

Heredity plays an important role in determining the rate of metabolism and predisposition to weight gain. Genes affect various aspects of metabolism, including:

• Basal metabolism (BM): Genes affect the size and composition of the body (for example, the amount of muscle mass), as well as the function of the endocrine system (thyroid gland, adrenal glands) that regulate BM.

• Thermal effect of food (TEP): Genetic factors can affect the effectiveness of digestion and assimilation of various nutrients, which, in turn, affects the heap.

• Physical activity tendency: Some people are genetically predisposed to higher activity and greater endurance, which contributes to greater energy consumption.

• Regulation of appetite and saturation: Genes are involved in the regulation of hormones responsible for appetite (for example, leptin, ghrelin), and affect the feeling of saturation after eating.

• Distribution of adipose tissue: Genes affect where fat is deposited in the body (for example, in the abdomen, hips, buttocks). Abdominal obesity (deposition of fat in the abdomen) is associated with an increased risk of developing metabolic diseases.

III. Key genes affecting metabolism and weight

Several genes were identified as playing an important role in the regulation of metabolism and weight:

• FTO (Fat Mass and Obesity-Associated Gene): This gene is one of the most studied genes associated with obesity. FTO gene variants are associated with increased appetite, a reduced feeling of saturation and an increased risk of obesity. People who have a “risky” version of the FTO gene, as a rule, consume more calories and have a higher body weight (BMI). FTO affects the expression of other genes associated with the energy balance.

• MC4R (Melanocortin 4 Receptor Gene): This gene encodes melanocortine receptor 4, which plays an important role in the regulation of appetite and energy balance in the brain. Mutations in the MC4R gene are one of the most common causes of monogenic obesity (obesity caused by a mutation in one gene). People with mutations in MC4R, as a rule, have increased appetite, especially for foods with a high fat content.

• PPARγ (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Gene): This gene encodes a nuclear receptor that plays an important role in the regulation of fat metabolism, sensitivity to insulin and inflammation. Pparγ gene variants are associated with an increased risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes. This gene is also a target for some drugs used to treat diabetes.

• ADRB2 (Adrenergic Receptor Beta 2 Gene): This gene encodes beta-2 adrenergic receptor, which plays an important role in the regulation of lipolysis (splitting of fats) and thermogenesis (heat production). ADRB2 gene variants can affect the ability of the body to burn fat during physical activity.

• LEP (Leptin Gene) и LEPR (LEPTIN RECEIVER Gene): The LEP gene encodes the leptin hormone, which is produced by fat cells and tells the brain about energy reserves. The LEPR gene encodes leptin receptor, which is located in the brain and reacts to leptin. Mutations in the LEP and LEPR genes can lead to leptin deficiency or insensitivity to leptin, which leads to increased appetite and obesity.

• GNB3 (Guanine Nucleotide Binding Protein Beta Polypeptide 3 Gene): This gene is involved in the transmission of signals inside the cells. Genb3 gene variants are associated with an increased risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome.

• IRS1 (Insulin Receptor Substrate 1 Gene): This gene encodes the protein participating in the transmission of insulin signals. IRS1 gene variants can affect insulin sensitivity and the risk of type 2 diabetes.

IV. Epigenetics: the influence of the environment on the expression of genes

Although genetics plays an important role, it is not the only determining factor in metabolism and weight. Epigenetics, the study of changes in the expression of genes, which are not associated with changes in the DNA itself, also plays an important role. Epigenetic changes can be caused by environmental factors, such as diet, physical activity, stress and the effects of toxins.

Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, can change the structure of chromatin (DNA and protein complex) and influence which genes are active or inactive. These changes can be transmitted from generation to generation, affecting metabolism and the risk of obesity in descendants.

For example, studies have shown that the mother’s diet during pregnancy can affect epigenetic markers in a child and increase the risk of obesity and metabolic diseases in the future. Similarly, the effects of toxins during pregnancy or in early childhood can lead to epigenetic changes that affect metabolism.

V. The interaction of genes and the environment

Metabolism and weight are the result of complex interaction between genetic factors and environmental factors. Genes can determine the predisposition to weight gain, but environmental factors, such as diet and physical activity, determine whether this predisposition will be realized.

For example, a person with a genetic predisposition to obesity can avoid weight gain, adhering to a healthy diet and regularly engaged in physical exercises. On the other hand, a person without a genetic predisposition to obesity can gain weight if he leads an unhealthy lifestyle.

It is important to note that the influence of genes and the environment can vary depending on the genetic background of a person. Some people can be more sensitive to the influence of diet and physical activity than others.

VI. Genetic testing to optimize metabolism and weight

Genetic testing is becoming more accessible and can provide valuable information about the genetic predisposition to various aspects of metabolism and weight. Genetic tests can analyze options in genes associated with appetite, saturation, metabolism, distribution of adipose tissue and insulin sensitivity.

The results of genetic testing can be used to develop personalized nutrition strategies and physical exercises that correspond to the human genetic profile. For example, if a genetic test shows that a person has a genetic predisposition to increased appetite, he can be recommended to focus on the use of foods with a high content of fiber and protein to increase the feeling of saturation. If a genetic test shows that a person has a genetic predisposition to reduced sensitivity to insulin, he can be recommended to limit the consumption of simple carbohydrates and increase physical activity.

However, it is important to note that genetic testing is not a panacea. The results of genetic testing should be interpreted in the context of the personal history of health, lifestyle and other environmental factors. It is also important to contact a qualified specialist, such as a nutritionist or doctor, to interpret the results of genetic testing and develop a personalized action plan.

VII. Practical recommendations for improving metabolism and weight control, taking into account genetics

Although the genetics cannot be changed, you can change the lifestyle in order to compensate for genetic predispositions and optimize metabolism and weight. Here are a few practical recommendations:

• Determine your genetic profile: Consider the possibility of genetic testing to learn about your genetic predisposition to various aspects of metabolism and weight.

• Adhere to a balanced diet: Focus on the use of whole, unprocessed products, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein sources and healthy fats. Limit the consumption of processed products, sugar and saturated fats.

• Regularly engage in physical exercises: Strive at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of high intensity of aerobic activity per week, as well as for strength training at least twice a week.

• Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect metabolism and contribute to weight gain. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, walking in nature or communication with friends and family.

• Farm up: The lack of sleep can violate the hormonal balance and lead to increased appetite and a decrease in the rate of metabolism. Strive by 7-8 hours of sleep per day.

• Contact a specialist: Consult a nutritionist or doctor to develop a personalized nutrition plan and physical exercises that corresponds to your genetic profile and lifestyle.

• Be patient and consistent: A change in lifestyle requires time and effort. Do not expect instant results and be consistent in your efforts.

VIII. Metabolism and age

With age, the metabolism rate, as a rule, decreases. This is due to several factors, including:

• Reduced muscle mass: With age, the muscle mass, as a rule, decreases, and muscle tissue consumes more energy than adipose tissue.

• Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes occur with age, which can affect the rate of metabolism. For example, in women, after menopause, estrogen levels are reduced, which can lead to a decrease in metabolism rate.

• Reduction in physical activity: With age, people, as a rule, become less active, which leads to a decrease in energy consumption.

However, you can slow down a decrease in the rate of metabolism with age, adhering to a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical exercises (especially strength training to maintain muscle mass), a balanced diet and sufficient sleep.

IX. Metabolism and gender

Men, as a rule, have a higher metabolism rate than women. This is due to the fact that men are usually more muscle mass than women. In addition, in men, the level of testosterone, which helps to increase muscle mass and metabolism speed.

X. Metabolic diseases

Some genetic diseases can affect metabolism and lead to various metabolic disorders. Such diseases include:

• Phenylketonuria (FCU): This is a genetic disease in which the body cannot process the phenylalanine amino acid. If FCU is not treated, this can lead to a delay in mental development.

• Galactosemia: This is a genetic disease in which the body cannot process galactose sugar. If you do not treat the galactosemia, this can lead to damage to the liver, kidneys and brain.

• Tey-Saxi disease: This is a genetic disease in which fatty substance accumulates in the brain. Thea-Saxi disease leads to progressive damage to the nervous system and usually leads to death in early childhood.

• MukoviScidoz: This is a genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas and other organs. Cycassocidosis leads to the formation of thick mucus, which can block the respiratory tract and lead to infections.

XI. Factors affecting metabolism in addition to genetics

In addition to genetics, the following factors affect metabolism:

• Diet: The quality and amount of food consumed has a significant effect on metabolism. The lack of calories can slow down metabolism, while an excess of calories can lead to weight gain. The composition of the diet (the ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates) also affects metabolism.

• Physical activity: Regular physical activity increases energy consumption and helps maintain muscle mass, which, in turn, increases the rate of metabolism.

• Age: With age, the metabolism rate is usually reduced due to the loss of muscle mass and hormonal changes.

• Floor: Men, as a rule, have a higher metabolism rate than women, due to greater muscle mass.

• Hormones: Hormones, such as thyroid hormones, insulin, cortisol and sex hormones, play an important role in the regulation of metabolism.

• Dream: The lack of sleep can violate the hormonal balance and lead to a decrease in the rate of metabolism.

• Stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect metabolism and contribute to weight gain.

• Some drugs: Some drugs, such as antidepressants and beta-blockers, can affect metabolism.

• Environmental temperature: In cold weather, the body consumes more energy to maintain body temperature, which can temporarily increase metabolism.

XII. Prospects for research in the field of genetics and metabolism

Studies in the field of genetics and metabolism continue to develop. In the future you can expect:

• Identification of new genes affecting metabolism and weight.

• A deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which genes affect metabolism.

• Development of more effective personalized nutrition strategies and physical exercises based on a human genetic profile.

• Development of new drugs aimed at genes involved in the regulation of metabolism.

• The development of epigenetic therapy methods for changing the expression of genes associated with metabolism.

XIII. The importance of an integrated approach

Management of metabolism and weight requires an integrated approach that takes into account both genetic factors and environmental factors. You cannot rely only on genetic testing or only on a change in lifestyle. It is important to combine these approaches and develop a personalized plan of action, which corresponds to the individual needs and genetic profile of a person.

Given rapidly developing studies in the field of genetics and metabolism, in the future we can expect new opportunities to optimize metabolism and maintain healthy weight.

XIV. Nutrition and genetics: personalized recommendations

Genetics can affect how the body reacts to various foods. For example:

• Sensitivity to carbohydrates: Some people are genetically more sensitive to carbohydrates than others. In such people, the use of a large amount of carbohydrates can lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar and weight gain. It can be recommended to adhere to a low carbohydrate diet or a moderate carbohydrate content and a high content of protein and fiber.

• Sensitivity to fats: Some people are genetically more sensitive to fats than others. In such people, the use of a large amount of fats can lead to an increase in blood cholesterol and weight gain. It can be recommended to adhere to a low fat content or moderate fat content and high protein and fiber.

• Caffeine metabolism: Some people metabolize caffeine faster than others. In people who metabolizes caffeine slowly, caffeine use can lead to insomnia, anxiety and other side effects.

• The need for vitamins and minerals: Some people genetically need more certain vitamins and minerals than others. For example, people with certain genetic options may need more vitamin D or folic acid.

XV. Physical activity and genetics: training optimization

Genetics can affect how the body reacts to various types of physical activity. For example:

• Power training: Some people are genetically predisposed to a quick set of muscle mass, while others need more effort to increase muscles.

• Aerobic training: Some people are genetically predisposed to greater endurance, while others are more suitable for sprint sports.

• Tendency to injuries: Some people are genetically more prone to injuries than others.

Genetic testing can help determine which types of physical activity are most suitable for a particular person, and help develop a personalized training plan.

XVI. Genetics and microbia

The intestinal microbia (a set of microorganisms that live in the intestines) plays an important role in metabolism and weight. Studies have shown that genetics can affect the composition of the intestinal microbioma. Various genetic options can affect what bacteria prevail in the intestines, and this, in turn, can affect metabolism and weight.

For example, some bacteria in the intestine can help to break down complex carbohydrates and fats, while other bacteria can contribute to inflammation and weight gain.

A change in the diet and the intake of probiotics can help change the composition of the intestinal microbioma and improve metabolism.

XVII. The future of personalized medicine in the field of metabolism and weight

Personalized medicine, based on the human genetic profile, promises to revolutionize approaches to the treatment and prevention of metabolic diseases and obesity. In the future you can expect:

• The widespread use of genetic testing to assess the risk of metabolic diseases.

• The development of drugs aimed at specific genes involved in the regulation of metabolism.

• Personalized recommendations for nutrition and physical exercises based on the human genetic profile.

• The use of intestinal microbioma as a target for therapeutic effects.

Personalized medicine will more effectively prevent and treat metabolic diseases and obesity, taking into account the individual characteristics of each person.

XVIII. Ethics of genetic testing

It is important to consider the ethical aspects of genetic testing, especially in the context of metabolism and weight:

• Confidentiality: The results of genetic testing should be confidential and protected from unauthorized access.

• Discrimination: There is a risk of discrimination based on genetic information, for example, from employers or insurance companies.

• Accuracy and interpretation: It is important to understand that genetic testing is not absolutely accurate and that the results should be interpreted in the context of a personal health and lifestyle.

• Psychological impact: The results of genetic testing can have a psychological effect on a person, especially if they indicate an increased risk of developing the disease.

It is necessary to develop and observe ethical norms to guarantee that genetic testing is used responsibly and in the interests of people.