It would be wonderful to attribute our penchant for addictive damaging activities, such as overeating, smoking cigarettes or binge drinking, wholly on our genetic make up. Then we could really blame our parents for everything. All current research suggests, however, that a variety of factors influence an individual’s propensity for compulsive behaviour.
The recent Government campaign highlighting obesity has made more people aware of this increasing problem. The campaign aims to convince individuals to take responsibility for their own actions. But while no one is immune to addictive tendencies, some are more prone than others.
Research from the US suggests a preference for fatty foods may have a genetic basis. A study discovered that people with certain forms of the CD36 gene may like high-fat foods more than those with other forms of this gene.
Source: John Holden, Irish Times, 08/03/2012
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