This gene mutation is found in only 4% of the population.
Scientists have found out that 4% of the world's population are carriers of a gene mutation that prevents them from gaining extra pounds. The discovery was made by scientists from Nottingham Trent University, reported Sky News.
As it turned out, the mutation in the gene ZFHX3 has an effect on the part of the brain that is responsible for appetite, hunger and thirst. The mutation works like a switch and affects other genes in the hypothalamus.
An experiment with mice showed that rodents with this mutation weighed 20% less and ate 12% less. They also had lower levels of the insulin hormone leptin, which regulates body weight.
Earlier, nutritionists from Italy and Germany advised eating nuts for breakfast instead of eggs.