Hormonal

Genetic variants in the FTO gene (specifically rs17817449 and rs1421085) are significantly associated with increased adiposity (BMI, weight, waist circumference) and insulin resistance, but these metabolic effects are mediated entirely by the increase in body fat rather than direct metabolic dysfunction.

If you have a family history of obesity, you likely carry genetic variants (like FTO) that make you prone to storing more fat. This doesn't mean you are powerless, but it does mean you may need to be more vigilant about energy balance than someone without these variants. Focus on maintaining a healthy body weight, as your genetic risk manifests primarily through increased adiposity rather than direct metabolic defects.