Dietary Behavior of Spanish Schoolchildren in Relation to the Polygenic Risk of Obesity

Abstract

Several studies support an association between single nucleotide genetic polymorphisms (SNPs), obesity, and eating behavior in children. This study analyzed the eating behavior of 258 schoolchildren (ages 6 to 16) from Madrid, focusing on their genetic predisposition to obesity. The Children’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) and genotyping of 32 SNPs were used. Associations were observed between the total genetic risk score and behaviors related to emotional eating and food responsiveness. Different SNPs were linked to behaviors, particularly those associated with an increased risk of obesity. The rs1801725 SNP (CASR) showed the strongest association with increased enjoyment of food. SNP rs11676272 (ADCY3) and rs7566605 (INSIG2) were associated with enhanced satiety response, while SNP rs1421085 (FTO) and rs987237 (TFAP2B) were inversely related to anti-ingesting behaviors. SNPs rs4788099 (SH2B1), rs6857 (NECTIN2), and rs180172 (ADCY3) were linked to slower feeding. These findings suggest feeding behavior mediates genotype and obesity phenotype.