Scientists have used genome-wide studies to define a relationship between body mass index and polymorphisms in the FTO gene (Fat Mass and Obesity Associated Gene). Recently, insights into the function of the gene has revealed some very interesting data that gives rise to optimism. Fischer et al. (2009) have shown that mice who do not have the FTO gene product are capable of decreasing fat tissue. In addition they have shown that down-regulation of the FTO gene seems to provide protection against calorie-induced obesity. These findings verify the importance of the FTO gene for the regulation of body weight. The results of this research will become very important for the development of new ways to treat obesity.

Reference: Fischer J, Koch L, Emmerling C, Vierkotten J, Peters T, Bruning JC, Ruther U: Inactivation of the Fto gene protects from obesity. Nature 2009, 458(7240):894-898.

The foods we eat also have a big effect. I think back on what my mother used to preach, and I think she had it right. She told me to eat my greens and have lots of fruit. On the other hand, somehow she knew too much alcohol, red meat, and sugary drinks are bad. “Where did all the ice cream go?” echoes from the past. My hiking and canoeing mother encouraged me to do sports and other outdoor activities. I knew these choices were healthy and protected me from heart disease. What I didn’t realize was that my mother was protecting me from cancer, too.

The World Cancer Research Fund has recommendations for how to prevent cancer. I think they interviewed my mom.

Here are some of them:
• Be as lean as possible in the normal range of body weight
• Be physically active every day
• Avoid “energy-dense” foods and sugary drinks.
• Eat lots of non-starchy veggies and fruit
• Limit red meat and processed meat in your diet
• Avoid salt

You can check out the details and see the whole list on their web site:

http://www.wcrf.org/research/expert_report/recommendations.php

Now that I have passed on my mother’s preaching, you have yet another reason to eat well and exercise. I’m off to the gym… to fight cancer and heart disease at the same time!