Researchers developed a new diet based on one's DNA that could aid in weight loss even among people who have tried numerous diet plans to no avail. This genome-based diet could be available by 2020.
In the past years, the scientific community has linked DNA to weight loss struggles. Past studies, which involved twins and family, showed that an individual's DNA makeup participates in the body's response to weight gain and weight loss.
"I think within five years, we'll see people start to use a combination of genetic, behavioral and other sophisticated data to develop individualized weight-management plans," said Molly Bray, lead study author form the University of Texas' nutritional sciences professor and genetics
The DNA Diet
Obese and overweight patients could soon submit DNA samples (saliva) for gene sequencing. According to the researchers, patient details such as current diet, level of physical activity, stress levels, and current environment will all be collected using automated sensors.
Using a computer algorithm, the information will be collated prior to the genome-based recommendations that will help people lose weight effectively and actually keep the weight off. The study found that the scientific community already has the required skills to collect data needed for precision weight loss research. In fact, portable environment and behavior monitors such as FitBit are now common. The next step now is to develop the needed tools to process the data and come up with tailor-fit, genome-based diets.
However, the DNA diet will not miraculously shed the excess weight off without the aid of exercise. The good thing about the DNA diet is the newfound hope for people who have tried many diet fads and plans but still failed.
The DNA diet helps people to zero in on the right foods to eat, to maintain a good physique and keep the pounds from rebounding.
The prediction on DNA diet stemmed from the 2014 National Institutes of Health workshop titled "Genes, Behaviors, and Response to Weight Loss Interventions." The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Cancer Institute (NCI).
The Losing Battle Against Obesity
Bray stressed the bleak statistics of long-term weight loss. The scientific community has more to discover about the intricate process of weight regain from the biological and behavioral perspectives.
Obesity is an epidemic in the U.S. where approximately one-third of the population is considered overweight. The nation has been fighting a losing battle against the epidemic. The DNA diet could become a weapon in every doctor and nutritionist's arsenal to help win the war.
Bray expressed that while prevention remains as the best approach, millions of people are currently in dire need of highly effective, long-term weight loss strategies that will not just shed off the excess pounds but will also recover overall health.
The report was published in the journal Obesity on Dec. 22.
