Better Weight Loss Results Through 'Genetic Dieting'

The Nutrition Journal has published a study conducted by Scionia Inc. that indicates a diet can be tailored to a dieter's individual genes (nutrigenetics) thereby making it more successful in the long-term. If an individuals nutritional requirements are tailored to a person's unique genetic information for nutrient and metabolism and transport, long-term weight management can be significantly improved. In respect to the epidemic proportions of obesity and diabetes, this is an important discovery.

The researchers behind the study examined 93 patients over a timeframe of three years. All patients had problems with weight loss and had failed repeatedly in their attempts to shed the extra pounds. The group of patients was split into two groups, the actual test group with 50 patients, and the control group with 43. Among other criteria, age, gender, and Body Mass Index (BMI) determined the mix of patients in the respective group. The individuals of the test group had their genetic material screened for 24 separate variants in 19 individual genes, which are known to be particularly associated to the functions of the metabolism. The MyCellf Kit developed by Scionia Inc. was used to determine the patients' genetic profiles. The control group did not get screened. The test group received an individually tailored diet, while the control group followed the 'Mediterranean' diet regimen.

Both groups were monitored for pre-determined intervals of 100 to 300 days. The researchers compared the patients' weight reduction, BMI, and fasting blood glucose levels. As a result, over a time period of 300 days, the patients in the test group were doing much better in the areas of weight management and maintenance, and blood glucose level reduction, compared to the patients in the control group. 73% of test group patients were able to maintain their weight loss compared to 32% in the control group. Furthermore, more than double the patients in the test group compared to the control group were able to reduce their blood sugar levels to a normal pre-diabetic range.

Therefore, if an individual is able to personalize nutrition and lifestyle based on his or her unique genetic make-up, their weight loss management ability improves greatly. As a consequence health optimization can be achieved. Using this genetic approach, doctors and nutritionists can develop successful individualized nutrition and exercise protocols for their patients. An individually tailored diet will lead to a bigger rate of compliance, motivation, and overall effectiveness in the areas of weight loss, BMI, and blood sugar reduction.