Feature: Healthy Lifestyles

Best Weight Loss Diet Determined by Genes?

Author: John Phillip
Published: October 25, 2010 at 1:25 pm
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From an evolutionary perspective we are diverse, and many people can trace their lineage to different parts of the globe where their ancestors endured a distinct lifestyle, environment and diet.

All of these factors play a part in determining the genetic makeup that we carry today. It’s not difficult to imagine that each of us has evolved to function optimally on a different type of diet based on the lives led by our ancestors over countless generations. Modern gene testing may provide answers as to which type of diet is best to help us achieve our weight loss goal.

Follow Your Genes to Weight Loss Success
The long-standing question as to whether a low fat or low carbohydrate diet is best for weight loss may finally have been answered. The results of a study conducted at Stanford University show that dietary balance is important in the battle to lose weight.

Two groups were placed on a calorie restricted diet consisting of either low fat or low carb foods, and DNA testing was performed to establish a compatibility profile. Researchers found that dieters eating a matched type diet were able to lose 13 pounds over the course of a year, compared with only 3 pounds for the mismatched group.

Genetic Destiny: Low Carb Diet

The results of this study are not without controversy, as some scientists argue that no test can determine the success of a weight loss strategy. To be certain, there are many factors that influence weight loss including diet, physical activity, lifestyle, stress, mindset and environment.

And extensive research over the years has shown that a diet that excludes refined carbs is most likely to produce significant weight loss results, regardless of genetic composition. Protein and healthy fats are also important as they are more difficult to break down and increase resting metabolic rate.

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Article Author: John Phillip

John Phillip is a Diet, Health and Nutrition Researcher/Writer reporting on the cutting edge use of lifestyle modifications to enhance and improve the length and quality of life. John is the author of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan', a Free E-Book available for download from his blog. …

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