MyBody-X angle on FTO Alltag

The FTO gene (e.g., rs9939609) is the most studied genetic marker for body weight. Carriers of the risk allele (A) have a slightly higher average BMI – about 1–3 kg more in adulthood. However, the effect is small and strongly modulated by lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep. In everyday life, this means: if you carry the risk allele, you should focus on balanced calorie intake and regular physical activity, but no specific diet is required. MyBody-X includes FTO in its DNA test, but results are not deterministic. Evidence comes from large GWAS and meta-analyses, not from interventional trials. Important: genetic testing does not replace medical advice. The predictive value for an individual is limited because environment and behavior dominate. Marketing often promises personalized diets, but the actual clinical utility is moderate. For daily life: healthy habits work regardless of genotype.