Preference for fatty foods may have genetic roots

A study conducted by Kathleen Keller, assistant professor of nutritional sciences, and other scientists showed that people with the dominant allele (AA) of the gene CD36 may like high-fat foods more than those who have the recessive allele for this gene, so these people may be more prone to obesity and obesity-related diseases compared to the peolpe who have the recessive version of the gene. The scientists tested 317 African-American males and females since African-Americans are highly vulnerable to obesity and related conditions.They were given Italian salad dressings made with different amounts of oil and they rated their perception of the dressings' oiliness, fat content and creaminess. The study also involved questionnaires about food preferences on foods with "poor dietary intake and health outcomes". Lastly, the researchers collected saliva samples to examine differences in the CD36 gene. They found that participants who had the dominant form of the gene rated the salad dressings as creamier, no matter the actual oil content, than individuals who had other forms of the gene and that their food preferences were inclined to those foods with higher fat content. It was shown that the gene CD36 may be associated with fat intake and obesity because of "a mechanism of oral fat perception and preference". Keller concluded that "[the] results suggest that people with certain forms of the CD36 gene may find fat creamier and more enjoyable than others. This may increase their risk for obesity and other health problems."

This experiment is based on discovery science because the scientists conducted an experiment to draw the conclusion that this gene may be associated with obesity.

The findings are important for humans because they may help people to change to healthier diets and to prevent these diseases.

Author: Penn State, no author given

Title: Preference for fatty foods may have genetic roots

Journal: Science Daily

Date published: February 3, 2012