Background/Aims: The 825T allele of the G protein β3-subunit gene (GNB3) is a thrifty genotype associated with an increased risk for obesity. We aimed to determine whether the 825T allele is modifying the subjective response to extended fasting. Methods: We genotyped 108 subjects who underwent an 8-day modified medical fasting treatment [total energy intake <350 kcal (1465 kJ)/day] for the GNB3 C825T polymorphism. Perceived hunger and mood were recorded daily by self-rating visual analogue scales. Results: Whereas weight loss was not dependent on genotype, both mood and hunger were significantly associated with genotype, with homozygous CC genotype carriers having best mood (p = 0.004) and least hunger (p = 0.036) during fasting compared to TT genotype carriers. Conclusions: Pronounced mental discomfort during fasting in 825T allele carriers might partly explain their increased risk for obesity. The strong association between the subjective response to fasting with GNB3 genotypes indicates a role of the gene in the behavioural regulation of food intake, which should be further considered in nutritional intervention studies.

Keywords:
Colonic restriction, Fasting, Mood, Genotype, GNB3 C825T polymorphism
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel
2009
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.