Assessing the Effectiveness of Actionable Nutrigenomics and Lifestyle Genomics Interventions for Weight Management in Clinical Practice: A Critical, Scoping Review With Directions for Future Research

Justine Horne 1 2 3, Jason Gilliland 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10, Janet Madill 5 11

Affiliations

PMID: 32500817
DOI: 10.1177/0260106020928667

Abstract

Background: The use of nutrigenomics and lifestyle genomics in clinical practice has the potential to optimize weight-related outcomes for patients.

Aim: A scoping review was conducted to summarize and evaluate the current body of knowledge related to the effectiveness of providing DNA-based lifestyle advice on weight-related outcomes, with the aim of providing direction for future research.

Method: Primary studies were included if they were written in English, evaluated weight-related and/or body mass index and/or body composition outcomes, and provided participants with an actionable genetic-based lifestyle intervention; interventions that only provided information on genetic risk for diseases/conditions were excluded. Data was extracted from each article meeting inclusion criteria (N=3) and the studies were critically appraised for methodological limitations.

Results: Research in this area is promising, but limited. Specific limitations relate to study designs, the nature of the recommendations provided to participants, small (underpowered) sample sizes, the use of self-reported weight/BMI data and lack of consideration of important confounding factors.

Conclusions: Therefore, the effectiveness of nutrigenomics and lifestyle genomics interventions for weight management in clinical practice cannot yet be conclusively determined. Recommendations for future research are detailed in the present manuscript.

Keywords: Nutrigenomics; lifestyle genomics; nutrigenetics; nutrition; obesity; overweight; physical activity.