Does your DNA determine the best diet for you?

Nutrigenomics

Nutrigenomics is the link between nutrition and your genome, or DNA. Scientists are now investigating whether your DNA predisposes you to process certain types of food better than other types of food. While some nutrition experts say it’s total calories that count, new findings suggest that depending on your DNA you may be more satisfied on a certain type of diet and that diet may be better for your health in the long run. AND total calories still do count.


The research was conducted at Stanford University on 101 Caucasian women. The women were divided into four diet groups; very low carbohydrate, low carbohydrate with high protein, low-fat and very low-fat. A year later, the researchers found that those who were matched to the diet best lost 2-3 times more weight compared to those on the wrong diet.


These findings were recently presented at the American Heart Association conference. While the study is preliminary, it’s received quite a bit of publicity probably because we can all relate to the frustration of going on a diet and giving up because we weren’t seeing results.


The DNA test costs $149. Dr. David Katz from Yale University recently appeared on Dr. Oz’s show and stated that the DNA test may not be necessary and your physical attributes could be used to determine which diet would be more effective. Currently there’s no research to back up his recommendations. However, often times genotypes do determine physical attributes (called phenotypes). For example, eye color is the phenotype, which is determined by your genotype (DNA).


Below are Dr. David Katz’s recommendations:


A Low-Fat Diet may be best for your DNA if you have:


• Heart disease in your family

• Low energy levels

• High LDL cholesterol


A low-fat diet can provide weight loss and protect you from diseases you’re predisposed to. Avoid fatty foods, refined sugars and carbohydrates; they can make you feel lethargic. For best energy, eat low-fat carbs, including whole grains like quinoa, or legumes, like black beans. Choose monounsaturated fats like olive oil and avocado to improve your HDL cholesterol.






Low-Fat Diet Basics


Consume no more than 77 grams of fat per day


Portion breakdown

• 70% carbs
• 15% protein

• 15% fat


A Low-Carb Diet may be best for your DNA if you have:


• Weight around your midsection

• High blood pressure

• High triglycerides


If your waist is greater than 35 inches, you’re at risk for heart disease, gall bladder disease and diabetes. You may be insulin resistant, which means you have difficulty processing sugar. By losing 10% of your body weight, you can also lower your blood pressure. Choose lean healthy proteins and limit the amount of carbs, especially refined white foods like starchy potatoes and bread.






Low-Carb Diet Basics


Consume between 20-60 grams of carbs a day


Portion breakdown:

• 30% carbs

• 40% fat

• 30% protein






A Balanced Diet may be best for your DNA if you have:


• Family history of diabetes or heart disease

• Mediterranean ethnicity

• Frequent indigestion or constipation


“If it was good enough for your parents, it’s good enough for you,” says Dr. Katz. “That’s the real power of nutrigenetics. It reminds us of the importance of our heritage.” For example Scandinavians do very well consuming dairy because they are lactose tolerant, whereas, many Native Americans and Chinese are lactose intolerant.






Balanced Diet Basics


Portion breakdown

• 50% carbs

• 30% fat

• 20% protein