A gene in the brain’s reward system has been found to contribute to childhood obesity.
A variation in the gene that regulates the activity of dopamine, a major neurotransmitter that regulates an individual’s response to tasty food, predicted the amount of “comfort” foods, such as ice cream and candy, that are selected and eaten by children.
Genetics and emotional well-being combine to drive consumption of foods that promote obesity.
Read more at McGill University