Coffee addicts now have an excuse for blaming their genes!
New research has discovered that genetic factors could explain why some people consume large amounts of caffeine every day.
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According to BBC, researchers in the United States have scanned genetic variations in over 40,000 individuals to search for links with high caffeine intake and found two stretches of DNA associated with high consumption of tea, coffee, chocolate, soft drinks and other sources of caffeine.
The study, published in the journal, PLoS Genetics said people with the high consumption genetic variation consume more caffeine, about 40mg or a third of a cup of coffee or a can of soda more than other individuals.
The author, Dr. Neil Caporaso of the National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland told BBC, “There are hundreds of genes known for specific medical conditions, for dietary consumption, we know very little.
“Now, for the first time, we know specific genes that influence the amount of caffeine that individuals consume,” he said.
The two stretches of DNA linked with high caffeine consumption contain two genes thought highly likely to be involved in the way the body processes caffeine.
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He also said that there has always been some anecdotal evidence that everyone responds differently to caffeine, but most research has focused on environmental factors.
“For caffeine, at last, we have been able to find some genetic factors,” he added.
Hmm, very interesting…
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
