Lay opinion vs evidence: FTO Alltag

Lay opinion often claims that the FTO gene (e.g., rs9939609) predestines obesity. Evidence shows: each risk allele increases BMI by only ~0.3–0.5 kg/m² on average. Physical activity can fully cancel this effect. No proven gene-diet interaction for weight loss exists. DNA tests promising personalized diets are largely marketing, not supported by RCTs. In everyday life, calorie balance and exercise matter most – the FTO risk is small and modifiable. A fatalistic view is unwarranted.