Do Your Genes Fit?

Scientists have not yet perfected tests that would let you give some blood, have it analyzed, and find out whether or not you have fat genes. But they are at the point where they can look at various factors, such as whether or not your parents are fat, and let you know your chances of having a weight problem. Check the following list to discover your genetic lot.

• If both of your parents are overweight, you have an 80 percent chance of also having weight problems.
• If one parent is overweight, your odds are 40 percent.
• If neither parent is overweight, you have only a 10 percent chance of being overweight.
• If you’re African-American, you’re twice as likely as a Caucasian to be fat.
• If you’re Native American, from the Pacific Islands, or Hispanic, you’ll have more trouble fighting fat than someone of European ancestry.
• If you’re Asian-American, you have less chance of becoming any excess fat will tend to land on your abdomen.