New research from Northwestern Medicine suggests that an individual’s genetic composition may play a significant role in their ability to maintain a strict vegetarian diet. By examining genetic data sourced from the UK Biobank, the study pinpointed three genes strongly linked to vegetarianism, alongside 31 others with potential associations. These findings hold the promise of further exploration, potentially impacting dietary guidelines and the development of meat alternatives.
A Comprehensive Investigation
In a world increasingly embracing meat-free alternatives such as the Impossible Burger and “Meatless Mondays,” the study reveals that an individual’s genetic makeup can be a determinant in their ability to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet.
Dr. Nabeel Yaseen, professor emeritus of pathology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the corresponding author of the study, posed a thought-provoking question: “Are all humans capable of subsisting long-term on a strict vegetarian diet? This is a question that has not been seriously studied.”
Challenges to Strict Vegetarianism
The study sheds light on the fact that a significant proportion (approximately 48 to 64%) of self-identified “vegetarians” still incorporate fish, poultry, and/or red meat into their diets. This suggests that environmental or biological factors might override the desire to adhere strictly to vegetarianism.
Exploring the Genetics
To investigate the role of genetics in vegetarianism, researchers compared genetic data from 5,324 strict vegetarians (individuals consuming no fish, poultry, or red meat) with data from 329,455 controls. All study participants were of white Caucasian descent to ensure a homogeneous sample and eliminate potential confounding factors related to ethnicity.
The study identified three genes significantly associated with vegetarianism and an additional 31 genes with potential links. Among these genes, two of the top three, NPC1 and RMC1, are involved in lipid (fat) metabolism and/or brain function.
Lipid Components and Vegetarianism
Dr. Yaseen speculates that the differences between plant-based products and meat might involve complex lipids. He suggests that some individuals may require specific lipid components present in meat, and those whose genetics favor vegetarianism may be able to synthesize these components internally. However, he acknowledges that further research is needed to fully understand the physiological aspects of vegetarianism.
Implications for Dietary Recommendations
This study, published in the journal PLOS ONE on October 4, represents the first fully peer-reviewed and indexed research to explore the genetic associations with strict vegetarianism. It raises intriguing questions about why most people still prefer meat products, despite the increasing popularity of vegetarianism and the growing awareness of its health benefits.
While religious and moral considerations have traditionally been significant motivators for adopting a vegetarian diet, this research suggests that genetic factors also play a crucial role. Dr. Yaseen hopes that future studies will lead to a deeper understanding of the physiological differences between vegetarians and non-vegetarians, enabling personalized dietary recommendations and the development of more appealing meat substitutes.
Reference: “Genetics of Vegetarianism: A Genome-Wide Association Study” by Nabeel R. Yaseen, Catriona L. K. Barnes, Lingwei Sun, Akiko Takeda, and John P. Rice, 4 October 2023, PLOS ONE.
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291305
This study, titled “Genetics of Vegetarianism: A Genome-Wide Association Study,” was a collaborative effort involving scientists from Washington University in St. Louis and Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vegetarian Genetics
What is the main finding of the study on vegetarian genetics?
The study identified three genes strongly linked to vegetarianism and 31 others potentially associated with it.
Why is this study significant?
This research sheds light on how an individual’s genetic makeup can influence their ability to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet, potentially impacting dietary recommendations and meat substitute development.
How was the study conducted?
Researchers compared genetic data from strict vegetarians (who consume no fish, poultry, or red meat) with data from control groups, all of whom were white Caucasians to maintain sample homogeneity.
What genes were found to be linked to vegetarianism?
The study identified genes like NPC1 and RMC1, which are involved in lipid metabolism and brain function, as potential influencers of vegetarianism.
What percentage of self-identified vegetarians still consume animal products?
Approximately 48 to 64% of self-identified vegetarians reported consuming fish, poultry, or red meat.
What implications does this study have for dietary recommendations?
The study suggests that genetics play a crucial role in an individual’s ability to adhere to a vegetarian diet, which could lead to more personalized dietary recommendations and the development of improved meat substitutes.
More about Vegetarian Genetics
- PLOS ONE Study
- Northwestern Medicine
- UK Biobank
- Impossible Burger
- “Meatless Mondays”
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- NPC1 gene
- RMC1 gene
2 comments
so they say genes influence vegetarianism huh? very intrstng.
i’ve alwys wondered y some ppl cant stick 2 bein veg. this is cool!