Diet plays an important role in maintaining health and managing weight, but why do the same diet have different effects on different people? Recent research has revealed that genes influence nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism , and dietary plans based on individual genetic characteristics are gaining attention.
Genetic testing can help you identify your optimal diet and tailor your nutrition to your health goals. This article details the relationship between genes and nutrition, key genes, dietary strategies for various body types, and how to use genetic information for individual optimization .
1. The relationship between genes and nutrition
The effects of diet vary from person to person depending on genes. For example, it is known that the ability to metabolize carbohydrates and lipids, the efficiency of vitamin and mineral absorption, and the rate at which caffeine and alcohol are broken down are all greatly influenced by genetic factors.
① Major genes that affect nutrient metabolism
The main nutrition-related genes analyzed by genetic testing include the following:
1. FTO gene (obesity risk and fat metabolism)
Mutations in the FTO gene are involved in fat accumulation and appetite regulation , and it has been reported that individuals with certain variants are at increased risk of obesity ( Frayling TM, 2007 )
People with risk type (AA type) tend to accumulate fat and need to be careful about high-fat foods
People with non-risk type (TT type) → have good lipid metabolism and are relatively easy to manage their weight
Optimal dietary strategy: ✅ Risk type (AA type) → Focus on a low-fat, high-protein diet and moderately manage fat intake ✅ Non-risk type (TT type) → Moderate fat intake is acceptable, but excessive intake should be avoided
2. AMY1 gene (ability to metabolize carbohydrates)
The AMY1 gene regulates the production of salivary amylase and determines the ability to digest carbohydrates . The more copies of the gene, the more efficiently carbohydrates can be broken down, which is thought to prevent a sudden rise in blood sugar levels ( Falchi M, 2014 ).
People with low copy numbers (low expression type) → have difficulty converting carbohydrates into energy, increasing the risk of obesity
People with a high copy number (high expression type) → High carbohydrate metabolism ability, allowing for moderate carbohydrate intake
Optimal dietary strategy: ✅ Low-expressing people → Eat mainly low-GI foods (brown rice, whole wheat bread, beans) ✅ High-expressing people → Blood sugar levels tend to be stable even when consuming a moderate amount of carbohydrates
3. MTHFR gene (folate and methylation capacity)
The MTHFR gene is an important gene involved in folate metabolism and aids in methylation reactions (DNA repair and neurotransmitter synthesis) . Mutations in the gene result in reduced folate utilization, making people more susceptible to cardiovascular disease and neurological problems ( Castro R, 2004 ).
At-risk type (people with the C677T mutation) → They have a low ability to metabolize folic acid and need to take in folic acid from their diet
Non-risk type (normal genotype) → No problems with folic acid metabolism
Optimal dietary strategy : ✅ At-risk people → Actively consume foods rich in folic acid (spinach, avocado, beans) ✅ Non-at-risk people → No special precautions are required, but try to eat a balanced diet
Maintaining an appropriate amount of carbohydrates, focusing on low GI foods
Poor folic acid metabolism
MTHFR
At risk of folic acid deficiency
Eat foods rich in folic acid (spinach, broccoli)
② Diet strategies using genetic information
Based on your genetic testing, you can tailor your approach to increase your chances of success with your weight loss.
1. Low-Carb Diet
Suitable genotype → People with a low copy number of AMY1 (low expression type)
Specific diet→ Vegetables, nuts, and protein-based diet
2. Mediterranean diet
Suitable genotype → People with a mutation in the FTO gene (prone to fat accumulation)
Specific dietary requirements → Olive oil, fish, vegetables, nuts
3. High-protein diet
Suitable genotype → ACTN3 RR type, which is likely to promote muscle growth
Specific dietary intake→ meat, eggs, soy products, dairy products
3. Benefits of using genetic testing
✅ Improves the success rate of dieting (choose a dietary strategy that suits your constitution) ✅ Prevents nutritional deficiencies (supplements nutrients that are genetically difficult to absorb) ✅ Reduces health risks (prevents diabetes and cardiovascular disease)
By incorporating a diet plan based on genetic information, you can manage your health more efficiently.
4. Optimizing diets for each lifestyle using genetic information
Genetic testing can be used not only for health management and dieting, but also for creating meal plans that fit your lifestyle and exercise habits. Here, we introduce meal plans suitable for a variety of lifestyles, including athletes, desk workers, the elderly, and pregnant women.
An athlete’s diet must be designed to support muscle growth, fuel, and recovery, and genetic testing can help optimize individual diets to maximize performance .
ACTN3 RR type → Fast-twitch muscle is well developed, so increase protein intake
MSTN (people with myostatin suppression) → Muscle hypertrophy is easy to achieve, so a combination of high protein and creatine is effective
Recommended meal plan : ✅ High protein diet (lean meat, chicken breast, eggs, dairy products). ✅ Supplement with creatine and BCAAs to enhance muscle protein synthesis. ✅ Supplement with carbohydrates (oatmeal, brown rice) before and after exercise to restore muscle glycogen
ACE type II people have excellent endurance, so a balance of fats and carbohydrates is important
People with PPARG gene mutations → If fat burning efficiency is low, use MCT oil, etc.
Recommended meal plan: ✅ Actively consume energy-efficient carbohydrates (brown rice, sweet potatoes) ✅ Supplement omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseed oil) to improve endurance. ✅ Caffeine intake supports improved athletic performance (note the influence of the CYP1A2 gene)
② Genetic diet plan for desk workers
People who work mainly at a desk need to be careful about things like a slowed metabolism, a sudden rise in blood sugar levels, and overeating due to stress . By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to design a diet that focuses on controlling blood sugar levels and maintaining brain function.
1. Low metabolism type (FTO gene mutation)
High sugar intake leads to increased body fat
Focus on a diet that promotes fat burning, focusing on low GI foods
Recommended meal plan: ✅ Eat foods high in fiber (vegetables, nuts, beans) to prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. ✅ Incorporate light exercise after lunch to improve insulin sensitivity. ✅ Promotes metabolism by incorporating green tea polyphenols and ginger
2. Those who want to improve their concentration (with BDNF gene mutation)
Imbalance of neurotransmitters
DHA and antioxidants are important for maintaining brain health.
Recommended meal plan: ✅ Eat foods rich in DHA and EPA (mackerel, walnuts) ✅ Support brain function with polyphenols from blueberries and dark chocolate ✅ Consume magnesium (nuts, beans) to reduce stress.
Maintaining muscle mass, strengthening bone density, and preventing cardiovascular disease are important aspects of the diet for older adults.
1. Type prone to muscle loss (high MSTN expression)
Strong myostatin activity leads to rapid muscle loss.
High-protein diet and vitamin D intake are essential for muscle maintenance
Recommended meal plan: ✅ Consume at least 80g of protein per day to promote muscle protein synthesis. ✅ Supplement vitamin D (fish, eggs, supplements) to support muscle maintenance. ✅ Prevents muscle breakdown by utilizing HMB (β-hydroxy β-methylbutyric acid)
2. High risk of cardiovascular disease (APOE4 gene mutation)
LDL cholesterol levels tend to rise
High risk of arteriosclerosis, so be careful about fat intake
Recommended diet plan: ✅ Eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, sardines) at least three times a week. ✅ Consume high-quality fats such as nuts, avocados, and olive oil. ✅ Avoid trans fats (processed foods, margarine) as much as possible.
④ Genetic diet plans for pregnant women
During pregnancy, it is important to maintain a proper nutritional balance, taking into consideration the health of both the mother and the fetus. Genetic testing can help optimize nutritional management during pregnancy.
1. Type with high risk of folic acid deficiency (MTHFR mutation)
Poor folic acid metabolism and risk of neural tube defects
Recommended diet plan: ✅ Eat foods rich in folic acid (spinach, asparagus) ✅ Take folic acid supplements before pregnancy to reduce risks.
2. High risk of gestational diabetes (TCF7L2 gene mutation)
Low sugar metabolism and prone to high blood sugar levels
Recommended meal plan: ✅ Focus on eating low GI foods and be conscious of controlling your blood sugar levels. ✅ Eat at regular intervals to prevent blood sugar spikes. ✅ Consume vinegar before meals to moderate sugar absorption.
By utilizing your genetic information, you can develop a more personalized diet strategy based on your lifestyle and health status. Implement evidence-based dietary plans to optimize your health.
5. Nutrient absorption and supplement strategies utilizing genetic information
Genetic differences affect the absorption rate and metabolic efficiency of certain nutrients. Understanding your genetic characteristics and supplementing nutrients that tend to be deficient can help you maintain your health and optimize your physical condition .
① Vitamin and mineral absorption ability and genes
1. Vitamin D absorption and the VDR gene
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for maintaining bone health and immune function , but it is known that absorption ability varies from person to person due to mutations in the VDR (vitamin D receptor) gene ( Morrison NA, 1994 ).
People with a mutation in the VDR gene have a lower absorption rate of vitamin D and are more likely to experience bone loss.
People with normal blood type → They have a high ability to absorb vitamin D, so taking an appropriate amount is no problem.
Optimal countermeasures: ✅ For those at risk : Take 1,000 to 2,000 IU of vitamin D per day through supplements ✅ Intentionally get plenty of sun exposure to promote vitamin D synthesis through ultraviolet light.
The HFE gene regulates the amount of iron absorbed, and mutations in the gene are known to predispose to iron overload (hemochromatosis) ( Feder JN, 1996 ).
People with a mutation in the HFE gene have excessive iron absorption, which puts a strain on the liver.
Normal type → iron balance is maintained properly
Optimal measures: ✅ People at risk of iron overload → Limit red meat intake and use foods that promote iron excretion (green tea, calcium) ✅ People at risk of iron deficiency → Actively consume liver, spinach, and red meat, and combine with vitamin C to promote absorption
3. Caffeine metabolism and the CYP1A2 gene
The CYP1A2 gene is a key gene that determines the rate at which caffeine is broken down . Individuals’ sensitivity to caffeine varies greatly depending on this gene ( Cornelis MC, 2006 ).
People who metabolize caffeine quickly (CYP1A2 highly active) → Caffeine has little effect, and moderate intake is no problem
Optimal measures: ✅ For people with high activity levels, morning coffee is fine and can be used to improve performance ✅ For people with low activity levels, limit caffeine intake from the afternoon onwards and choose non-caffeinated drinks (such as herbal tea).
② Personalized supplement strategy using genetic information
By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to efficiently provide nutritional support tailored to your constitution . Below are some examples of supplement strategies based on genetic characteristics.
1. For people who want to boost their immunity (with IL6 gene mutation)
People who are prone to inflammation due to mutations in the IL6 gene should increase their intake of nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties. ✅ Consume at least 1 g of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) per day. ✅ Strengthen immune function with the antioxidant effects of vitamins C and E.
2. For those who want to speed up muscle recovery (with MSTN gene mutation)
If muscle breakdown is likely to occur, use HMB and BCAA. ✅ Take HMB (3 g/day) to prevent muscle breakdown. ✅ Take BCAA (leucine, valine, and isoleucine) before and after exercise.
3. For those who want to increase their stress resistance (with COMT gene mutation)
People who metabolize stress hormones slowly can balance their nerves with GABA and magnesium. ✅ Take magnesium (300-400 mg/day) to promote relaxation. ✅ Take GABA supplements and theanine to suppress the sympathetic nervous system.
The latest research is developing AI-powered personalized nutrition plans that combine genetic testing with dietary data to provide individually optimized dietary management.
1. Personalized diet program optimized by genetics and AI
✅ AI analyzes genetic information and food logs to suggest the best menu options. ✅ Connects with smart devices to adjust nutritional balance in real time
2. Integration of the microbiome (intestinal bacteria) and genetic information
✅ Combining intestinal flora status and genetic information to create the optimal diet plan ✅ Improve digestion and absorption with prebiotics and probiotics
By utilizing genetic information, you can optimize your nutritional intake and lifestyle management. By incorporating a scientifically based, individually optimized diet, you can practice a healthier and more effective diet. It is expected that even more precise individual optimization will become possible with future research and technological advances.
6. Disease prevention and diet planning using genetic information
Genetic information can be used not only to select a diet that is appropriate for your constitution, but also to predict future health risks and develop strategies to prevent disease . This article provides detailed information on optimizing diets according to risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, dementia, and other conditions.
① Gene-specific dietary strategies for people at risk for diabetes
The TCF7L2 gene is heavily involved in the development of diabetes , and it has been reported that people with specific variants of this gene have reduced insulin sensitivity and are more likely to have elevated blood sugar levels ( Grant SF, 2006 ).
Characteristics of risk type (TCF7L2 mutation)
Rapid rise in blood sugar after consuming carbohydrates
1.5 to 2 times higher risk of developing diabetes
Poor carbohydrate metabolism leads to increased insulin resistance
To prevent a sudden rise in blood sugar, adjust the order of your meals (vegetables → protein → carbohydrates).
Improve insulin sensitivity with cinnamon and alpha-lipoic acid
Including protein and fat in your breakfast can improve blood sugar control
② Gene-specific dietary strategies for people at risk for cardiovascular disease
The APOE gene is involved in the risk of cardiovascular disease, and people with certain mutations are known to be more likely to have elevated LDL cholesterol levels and a higher risk of atherosclerosis ( Mahley RW, 2016 ).
Characteristics of at-risk individuals (APOE4 carriers)
Saturated fatty acid intake increases cholesterol
High risk of arteriosclerosis and myocardial infarction
The importance of consuming foods with antioxidant properties
③ Gene-specific dietary strategies for people at risk for osteoporosis
Bone density is related to the VDR gene (vitamin D receptor), and it is known that mutations in the VDR gene result in less efficient absorption of vitamin D, making bone density more likely to decrease ( Morrison NA, 1994 ).
Characteristics of risk type (with VDR mutation)
Poor calcium absorption leads to decreased bone density
Postmenopausal women are at increased risk of fractures
Vitamin D supplementation is especially important
✅ Optimal Eating Strategies
Actively consume dairy products (yogurt, cheese) to replenish calcium
Taking vitamin D (salmon, mushrooms) to promote calcium absorption
Incorporate moderate exercise (walking, resistance training) to promote bone strength
Magnesium and Vitamin K (nuts, green leafy vegetables) to support bone health
④ Gene-specific dietary strategies for people at risk for dementia
The APOE4 gene is involved in the risk of dementia , and people with this mutation are known to have a two to four times higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease ( Corder EH, 1993 ).
Characteristics of at-risk individuals (APOE4 carriers)
Poor carbohydrate metabolism and unstable energy supply in the brain
Susceptible to inflammation and oxidative stress
The importance of consuming anti-inflammatory and antioxidant foods
✅ Optimal Eating Strategies
Adopt a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet (ketogenic diet) to stabilize the brain’s energy supply
Consume foods high in antioxidants (blueberries, green tea, dark chocolate) to reduce oxidative stress
Improves brain energy metabolism by utilizing MCT oil (medium-chain fatty acids)
Actively take in omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) to maintain the health of brain cells
⑤ Next-generation dietary management using genetic information
In recent years, advances in AI technology have led to the emergence of services that offer individually optimized meal suggestions based on genetic data .
1. Integration of genetics and wearable devices
Combining blood glucose monitoring with genetic information to adjust diet in real time
AI suggests daily meal plans in collaboration with an individually optimized nutrition app
2. Gene x Microbiome Integration
Combining intestinal flora analysis and genetic data to optimize digestion and absorption efficiency
Improve your intestinal environment with prebiotics (fermented foods)
By utilizing genetic information, it will become possible to manage dietary habits according to each individual’s constitution, thereby reducing disease risk and extending healthy lifespan . It is expected that even more advanced individual optimization will be realized with future research and technological advances.
7. How to implement an individually optimized diet using genetic information
How should you implement the diet plan after taking a genetic test? We will introduce specific steps to incorporate the test results into your daily life .
① How to create a meal plan based on genetic information
Step 1: Check the results of your genetic test
✅ Understand your genetic risk (e.g., you have an FTO gene mutation → you need to restrict fat intake) ✅ Understand your metabolic characteristics (e.g., you have a low AMY1 copy number → low carbohydrates are appropriate) ✅ Identify nutrients that are difficult to absorb (e.g., you have a VDR mutation → you need vitamin D supplementation)
Maintaining health with foods rich in antioxidants
By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to create a meal plan that is optimal for each individual’s constitution, enabling more efficient health management . Incorporate this into your daily life and aim to maintain long-term health.
Summary
Individually optimized meal plans using genetic information allow you to take in nutrients tailored to your constitution, making a significant contribution to maintaining health and preventing disease. Genes such as FTO, AMY1, VDR, and APOE are known to affect metabolism and nutrient absorption, and adjusting your diet based on genetic testing can reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis . Achieve a healthy lifestyle by implementing the optimal diet for you using the latest research and AI technology .