Data:
– People with certain gene variants may be more inclined towards vegetarian diets.
– Genetic factors influence the likelihood of being vegetarian.
– Two of the three most important genes related to vegetarianism are involved in fat metabolism.
– Some individuals naturally produce certain fat molecules, making it easier for them to give up meat.
– About 5% of people in the UK and US avoid all meat and fish, but some self-proclaimed vegetarians still consume meat occasionally.
– Genetic variants also influence other aspects of diet, such as coffee and alcohol preferences.
– A study analyzed approximately 5300 strict vegetarians and 330,000 meat eaters from the UK Biobank.
– Three gene variants (NPC1, RMC1, RIOK3) were more common in vegetarians, with two involved in cholesterol and fatty molecule metabolism.
– The chemical make-up of fats or oils in animal-based and plant-based foods may play a role in gene-related vegetarianism.
– Some individuals may struggle with vegetarianism due to deficiencies in essential lipids.
– The gene variants may also affect people’s taste preferences.
– Research on how food nutrients influence satiety and food choices has mostly focused on proteins rather than fats.
– The number of vegetarians has been increasing, suggesting factors beyond genetics influence this dietary choice.
– Concerns about climate, animal welfare, and personal health are significant determinants of vegetarianism, along with psychological factors and taste preferences.
Genetic Factors May Influence Vegetarianism
