Can it be that obesity is a highly inheritable trait?  Can we then blame mom and dad for our weight problems? Hold that thought.

I come from a rural Appalachian community where you hear this common expression, “My daddy’s chubby, my momma’s chubby, all my brothers and sisters are chubby – of course, I’m chubby! It runs in my family!”  The fact is, if you looked around, you’d find that almost everyone in that community is indeed “chubby.”  Hmmm, does it really run in the family genes or could it actually have something to do with the traditional foods commonly eaten there such as sweet tea, biscuits and white gravy, cheesy grits, pork rinds and chicken-fried everything?

Scientists now tell us the answer to both questions is “yes.”  Their research shows that in addition to diet and exercise, your weight is also strongly influenced by your metabolism and your genes.  To date, more than 41 sites on the Human Genome have been linked to the development of obesity when a favorable environment is present.[i]

Most of these genes have to do with your metabolism as it relates to hunger, satiety, and food intake.  Many of these genes control leptin hormones that set a “thermostat” for how much fat you feel comfortable carrying.  If the “thermostat” is set “up,” you feel more comfortable being overweight.  Conversely, if the “thermostat” is set “low,” you will feel more comfortable being trim.

The good news is that genes such as these can be controlled through a science known as nutrigenomics which is the process of turning genes “off and on” through nutrition.

At The Renewal Point, we run routine metabolic screenings in our weight loss program, and when necessary, gene testing to assist patients in achieving their weight goals.  Many of our patients find that trying to lose weight without adequate testing is like trying to swim upstream. C.K.’s story is typical of this.

C.K. came to us frustrated, demoralized and still overweight after following an untold number of popular diet programs.  After a consultation with our Nurse Practitioner, she underwent lab testing, including a metabolic, hormone and genetic profile.  Multiple medical issues were discovered which were holding her back. 

Her blood tests showed insulin resistance, underactive thyroid, hormone imbalances, and markers for leptin resistance.  With C.K.’s “fat thermostat” turned up and her metabolism turned down, it would have been almost impossible to achieve long-term, satisfying weight control.

With the help of our team of trained professionals, C.K.’s metabolism, hormone and genetic markers were balanced and she was able to lose the weight.  Now 50 lbs. lighter, she feels happy, comfortable and content at her ideal size.

We can offer this same type of customized weight loss for you as well. And, we also treat men for weight loss with a lot of success. So stop blaming mom and dad, and schedule your consultation with The Renewal Point. 

Have some questions? Please join us at one of our upcoming complimentary seminars.

As printed in the May 2013 edition of West Coast Woman.

[i] Poirer, P. et al (May 2006) Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology