Scientists have discovered a certain gene that makes ice cream and other sugary foods taste even better for girls, a new study confirms.
The gene, according to the study, is directly linked to obesity which means that it may not be a woman's fault if they make poor eating choices which may result most often than not weight gain.
The Canadian researchers say that obesity is typically associated by genetic predisposition, environmental stress and emotional wellbeing. The findings of their study published in the journal Appetite may serve as an important step towards preventing and even treating obesity.
Michael Meaney, Professor at McGill University, Montreal said: "In broad terms, we are finding that obesity is a product of genetics, early development and circumstance."
Meaney and his colleagues tested 150 four-year old children from a project involving mothers whose depression makes it impossible for them to interact with their kids. The team also studied pregnant women, some of whom suffered from depression or lived in poverty, and followed their kids from birth until they reached the age of ten.
Dr. Patricia Silveira, also from McGill University, said: "We found that a variation in a gene that regulates the activity dopamine, which regulates the individual's response to tasty food, predicted the amount of 'comfort' foods - highly palatable foods such as ice cream, candy or calorie-laden snacks - selected and eaten by children."
"This effect was especially important for girls who we found carried the genetic allele that decreases dopamine function." Likewise, Dr. Meaney said: "Most importantly, the amount of comfort food eaten during the snack test in the four-year olds predicted the body weight of the girls at the age of six. Our research indicates that genetics and emotional well-being combine to drive consumption of foods that promote obesity."
