Genes Can Influence Food Choices

The researchers found that high bitter taste scores were associated with eating less bitter-tasting foods, such as whole grains, alcohol, and vegetables such as broccoli, kale.

However, the researchers did not measure whether higher scores in a particular taste represented aversion.

In theory, if a person does not like bitter greens, a dietitian can suggest sweeter alternatives such as butternut squash and corn,

“Understanding why you’re making food choices will be more empowering for behavior change than simply understanding what food choices you should make,” says Gervis.

According to Gervis, it is very important to characterize how taste relates to diet.

“Once we understand more broadly, that’s when we can start making broader conclusions and then making specific recommendations,” says Gervis.

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