Healthy eating is a choice. That's the common consensus. We choose whether to open and eat a candy bar or a piece of fruit, and we make a conscious choice to drink a glass of water or crack open a can of soda. Whether we adhere to a portion size guide or we load up our plate is all down to us.
However, that might be about to change, as some scientists believe our eating habits could partially be ruled over by our genetics. The study, conducted by researchers from King's College, London, analysed food questionnaire responses from 2,590 pairs of twins, looking for similarities in the responses.
It was found identical twins, who share lots of DNA, had more similar scores then non-identical pairs of twins, even when other factors were taken into account, such as BMI and varying exercise levels. The results indicate that there is a genetic component to food intake patterns.
This is a big deal: it means our eating habits are actually, at least in part, influenced by our genetics.
Dr Massimo Mangino, lead author of the study, said: "Our study represents the first comprehensive investigation of the contributions of genetic and environmental factors to the variation in eating behaviour. It highlights the complex relationship between genetic and environment and may have future implications for public health nutrition campaigns."
However, at present, we don't yet know exactly how much of your decision-making process is dictated by genetics. It's also very likely those processes can be overridden. Therefore, although our genetics could make us more likely to be predisposed towards certain eating habits, it doesn't eliminate freedom of choice from the way we eat.
Our Real Life Weight Loss section is full of people who have been eating a certain way all their lives before breaking the cycle and making a change. Likewise, choosing to start a day with a green juice (whizzed up in one of our best blenders) and some of the best exercises for weight loss can help you start the day doing things in a different way, breaking your patterns of unhealthy eating.
Mangino said: "This study used food data from female twins only, with an average age of 58. Future research will need to look at dietary indices across a more varied group of people to see if the same findings hold true."
-
-
People with low fitness are nearly twice as likely to experience depression
Fitness Getting fit benefits body and mind, as it's been found those with low muscle and heart health are at risk of mental health issues
By Matt Evans •
-
Air fryer deal: Save 50% on this Insignia digital air fryer at Best Buy
Deal Healthier cooking is yours to command, as this great Insignia 5qt air fryer is half-price at Best Buy
By Matt Evans •
-
Air fryer deal: Save 50% on this Insignia digital air fryer at Best Buy
Deal Healthier cooking is yours to command, as this great Insignia 5qt air fryer is half-price at Best Buy
By Matt Evans •
-
Nutrition: How a Mediterranean diet helps weight loss and improves your brain
Nutrition The Mediterranean diet (with loads of olive oil, vegetables and fish) helps transform your body and your brain
By Matt Evans •
-
How a simple diet change keeps Harrison Ford in movie-star shape at 78 years old
Seniors Ahead of his final turn as Indiana Jones, Harrison Ford announced he gave up meat last year
By Matt Evans •
-
Three days of gluten-free meal ideas, courtesy of Louise Thompson
Recipe The health and fitness influencer exclusively shares three days' worth of delicious gluten-free meal ideas
By Stephanie Wood •
-
Best protein powder for weight loss: The best supplements to tone up lean muscle
Weight Loss Looking to shed some pounds? Our pick of the best protein powder for weight loss can help you meet your goals
By Maddy Biddulph •
-
Why vitamin D is so important for good health – especially in the winter months
Health Getting enough vitamin D - the so-called 'sunshine vitamin' - is a priority during darker, colder months
By Howard Calvert •
-
Gut health: What to eat to prevent anxiety and depression, according to science
Nutrition Gut health plays a key role in how good – or bad – we feel. Here's what to eat to curtail anxiety and depression symptoms
By Matt Evans •
-
Nutrition: How your morning coffee can help boost metabolism and lose weight
Nutrition It's true! A morning coffee can help your weight loss efforts by boosting metabolism – just hold the two sugars
By Matt Evans •
