Why Some Crave Sugar More Than Others!

There is no one favorite food in this world. They vary from individual to individual, depending on personal taste and preference. It is believed the factors which influence this characteristic are related to environment as well as genetics. Past food studies have discovered that sweet tasting foods which are high in sugar seem to be the most popular food category among people. However, have you ever wondered why some people crave sugary goods more than others? The craving for foods high in sugar vary from person to person, but the underlying reasons why are still unclear. To better understand this concept, research teams examined the effect of a common variation in a gene that controls the entry of sugar (glucose) into cells. The gene is called glucose transporter type 2 or GLUT2.

The researchers composed an experiment to test the effects of the genetic variation in two distinct populations. One population consisted of older adults who were all either overweight or obese. The other population consisted of generally healthy young adults who were mostly lean.

The diet of the participants in the first population was assessed by recording all of the foods and beverages consumed over a three day period, and repeating this 3-day food record two weeks later to ensure that the effect was reproducible. All participants were interviewed face-to-face during the two visits to the research centers. For the second population, the study participants used a questionnaire that asked about the foods and beverages typically consumed during a one month period.

Blood was drawn from each participant, and their DNA extracted. The researchers examined the genotype distribution and compared the food intake data each participant provided between individuals with the variation and those without the variation in GLUT2. The DNA samples that carried the variation in GLUT2 were associated with consuming more sugars in both populations studied.

Hence, it was found that a variation in the GLUT2 gene is associated with a higher intake of sugars among different populations. These findings may help explain some of the individual variations in people's preference for sugary foods. It's especially important given the soaring rates of obesity and diabetes throughout much of the world.

Full article:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/05/080514064928.htm
Image from: http://thenrb.files.wordpress.com/2007/09/donuts.jpg

- Sarah Chan (41768778)