𝐈𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐜𝐮𝐝𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐃𝐍𝐀?

With all the turmoil and endless supply of stress happening in the world at the moment, we’re sure the vast majority of us have been in need of a cuddle every now and then.

But is being a cuddly person in your genes?

Well, the short answer is yes.

One gene named FTO is strongly associated with obesity and weight problems in childhood.

It is expressed in several tissues, especially specific parts of the brain , and muscle and is highly expressed in hypothalamic regions that are important for controlling appetite. 

FTO also affects energy balance by influencing eating behaviour and is one of the pathways responsible for the release of a variety of hormones such as ghrelin, which is known as the “Hunger Hormone” as well as oxytocin, the “Cuddle Hormone”.

Recent research suggests an indirect connection between the FTO gene and brain functions that influence behaviour, including social bonding and emotional regulation, which are closely tied to oxytocin.

So, loving a cuddle is most definitely a genetic thing.

With some of us being more prone to actually being a cuddly person compared to our friends or family.