Many assume that dietary decisions are primarily a matter of willpower. However, this isn’t necessarily true, particularly when it comes to vegetarian and vegan eating patterns. A study published last fall in the journal PLOS One suggests that our genes may significantly impact our ability to adhere to a vegetarian lifestyle.
How genetics may affect vegetarian and vegan eating habits
Published in October 2023, the research by Northwestern University’s Medicine program marks the first inquiry into the role of genetics in one’s capacity to maintain a strict vegetarian diet. The study arose from researchers’ curiosity about how many vegetarians occasionally consume meat, poultry, or fish. Given that other genetically influenced factors can influence dietary choices2, including metabolism and taste preferences, the researchers sought to determine if genetics play a role in one’s vegetarianism.
Utilizing data from the UK Biobank, a comprehensive biomedical database, researchers compared the genetic profiles of 5,324 strict vegetarians who abstained from meat, fish, or poultry to 329,455 control participants. All subjects were selected from a homogeneous sample of Caucasian backgrounds to mitigate ethnicity-related variables that might skew the findings.
“It seems there are more people who would like to be vegetarian than actually are, and we think it’s because there is something hard-wired here that people may be missing.” —Nabeel Yaseen, MD, PhD
Investigators identified three genes significantly associated with strict vegetarianism, along with another 31 with potential connections. Notably, two of these significant genes are linked to fat metabolism and brain function, leading researchers to hypothesize that fat metabolism influences one’s ability to adhere to a vegetarian lifestyle. “The lipid profiles of foods from animal sources differ significantly from those of plant sources,” the study authors noted. Individuals carrying these specific “vegetarian” genes may possess the capability to synthesize these lipid components internally, potentially negating the need for meat consumption. Conversely, those lacking this genetic profile might require meat-based products for essential fats and experience stronger cravings for meat when abstaining.
It is important to highlight that this is the initial study to uncover this possible connection. Extensive additional research, particularly involving diverse ethnic backgrounds, is necessary to establish whether these three genes play a definitive role in vegetarianism. Nonetheless, the findings spark intriguing possibilities and might provide comfort to those who feel guilty about not maintaining a plant-based diet.
“It seems there are more people who would like to be vegetarian than actually are, and we think it’s because there is something hard-wired here that people may be missing,” noted corresponding study author Nabeel Yaseen, MD, PhD in a press release regarding the study.
Additional factors influencing plant-based eating
However, genetics is not the sole determinant. Several social and cultural factors may influence an individual’s decision to pursue a vegetarian or plant-based lifestyle, regardless of their genetic predisposition:
Religion and culture
Numerous cultures and religions worldwide promote vegetarianism as a fundamental aspect of daily life. For instance, Rastafarians in Jamaica follow a vegetarian approach known as Ital food, which avoids salt, oil, and meat, and instead encourages…Eating natural foods sourced from the Earth is an integral part of many cultures and diets worldwide. In India, a notable 24 percent of the populace identifies as vegetarian, influenced by major religions like Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism that emphasize plant-based diets. However, these beliefs are just a starting point, as numerous other religions and cultures around the globe also advocate for plant-based eating.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
As awareness regarding climate change and animal welfare increases, many are adopting diets that feature less or no meat. This shift is partly a response to the fact that at least 14.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions are associated with livestock production. Research indicates that emissions from animal-based foods are two times greater than those from plant-based alternatives. Furthermore, intensive farming operations that produce large quantities of animals for meat often act as significant pollutants, contaminating local air and water sources with chemicals and waste. This adversely affects the health of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
On the ethical side, an astonishing 80 billion animals are slaughtered annually to satisfy meat demand. Many of these animals, especially those raised in factory farming environments, endure inhumane conditions during their brief lives before being processed for meat. Additionally, workers in the meat processing sector often face poor working conditions4, receiving low wages and facing risks of serious injury and psychological distress5. These harsh realities have motivated many animal advocates to pursue plant-based diets.
Health Benefits
Health considerations are perhaps the most compelling reason people are increasingly opting for meat alternatives. Research connects plant-based diets to a lower risk of conditions such as heart disease6, cancer7, type 2 diabetes8, and kidney disease9. (Additionally, it’s linked to better gut health10.)
A key reason behind the health advantages associated with vegetarian eating is the overall reduction of inflammation in the body, attributed to a higher intake of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. However, it’s crucial to note that without careful planning, plant-based diets can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, which are more challenging to obtain from plant sources.
In Summary
While scientific research has uncovered genetic factors that may influence the ease of adhering to a vegetarian diet for some individuals, numerous social and cultural influences can override these genetic predispositions. For those wishing to reduce their meat intake without fully committing to vegetarianism, a flexible eating pattern like the flexitarian approach may be appealing.
It’s essential to recognize that no single diet is optimal for everyone. Whether one chooses a plant-based diet or not, it’s vital to include a diverse selection of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, herbs, and spices to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients.
Ultimately, embracing moderation and balance, regardless of dietary choices, is fundamental for achieving overall wellness.
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