Sweet tooth / carbohydrate preference (FGF21)

FGF21 is a hormone that helps dial down cravings for sweets and carbs. A common variant near the FGF21 gene is linked to a slightly stronger preference for sugary and carb-rich foods. The effect is small, and habits matter far more.

Possible results

Lower sweet preference (FGF21). You don't carry the FGF21 sweet-preference variant, so as far as this gene goes, you lean toward a slightly lower pull from sugary and carb-rich foods. Many things shape what you crave, so this is just one small input.

Mild sweet preference. You carry one copy of the FGF21 variant linked to a slightly stronger liking for sweet and carb-rich foods. It's a small nudge, and your habits and environment matter far more.

Sweet tooth tendency (FGF21). You have two copies of the FGF21 variant linked to a stronger preference for sugary and carb-rich foods. It's a real but small genetic nudge toward a 'sweet tooth', easily outweighed by habit, so it's helpful to know rather than something to worry about.

Evidence & sources

Across global populations, about 37% of people carry two copies of this variant, and about 17% carry none.

This variant appears in 5 published genetic studies: PubMed 23372041 · PubMed 29988085 · PubMed 32393786 · PubMed 34426670 · PubMed 35585065.

Related

Alcohol response (flushing & dependence risk) · Beta-carotene to vitamin A conversion (BCO1) · Caffeine metabolism speed · Fat taste sensitivity (CD36) · Omega-3/6 conversion efficiency · Secretor status (norovirus resistance & B12) · Total cholesterol