Association Between ApoE Polymorphism in Obesity Markers in Healthy Adults Who Follow the Greek Orthodox Fasting Rules

Abstract

Aim: To examine the association between ApoE genetic polymorphisms and BMI.Methods: This case control study of randomly selected, free living individuals from North Greece investigated whether traditional Greek Orthodox dietary practices could affect obesity markers independent of genetic influences, by examining the   Waist circumference (WC), waist hip ratio (WHR) and % fat mass (% FM), were measured in healthy adults who follow the rules of Greek Orthodox fasting compared to those who did not. 382 subjects (246 women and 136 men) were included in the analysis, 161 fasters and 220 non-fasters as a control group. Results: Age affected obesity markers in all participants with more obesity in the older subjects. ApoE alleles did not differ between fasting and controls. When fasters where classified as obese and non-obese, there was no association with age (p>0,077). In the control group, BMI and WC were associated with age and gender and WHR with apoE alleles (p<0.001). In the fasting group these correlations are not observed (p=0.545 and p=0.365 respectively).  Interactions between independent variables (sex, age apoE alleles and fasting status) and their influence on BMI, %BF and WHR. ApoE alleles and age significantly influence WHR (p=0.014). Conclusions: In the present study we found that the effect of ApoE alleles on adiposity was associated with age.  In conclusion, even if genetic risks factor influence the susceptibility to obesity and cardiometabolic disorders, lifestyle changes may ameliorate these effects.