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New gene identified by researchers explains why some people ar more responsive to caffeine

Posted at 6:05 PM, Aug 26, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-26 18:37:06-04

A new gene identified by scientists in Italy may explain why some people are more responsive to caffeine.  The gene is called PDSS2. 

Researchers gathered two groups of volunteers from two countries well-known for their love of coffee: Italy and the Netherlands. 

Coffee consumption and genetic results were compared and people with the PDSS2 gene were inclined to drink less coffee than others.

The PDSS2 gene may regulate the production of proteins that metabolize in the body and might control how quickly the body breaks down caffeine. People with higher levels of this gene may metabolize caffeine slower and therefore drink less coffee. Those who had a lower expression of PDSS2, meaning the gene is less active, drank a lot more coffee.

A 2015 Gallup poll revealed about 64% of American adults drink at least one cup of coffee a day.  Many are using it to say alert so here are my prescriptions for additional ways to keep awake:

Partha’s RX How to Stay Alert During the Day:

1. Get Up and Move
Take a brisk 10-minute walk – it pumps oxygen through your veins, brain and muscles.

2. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Dehydration can cause fatigue

3. Eat Healthy Snacks
Large meals can make you drowsy so eat smaller meals and healthy snacks for sustained energy.

4. Exercise for 30 minutes each day
It’s very effective at increasing energy and reducing daytime fatigue

The PDSS2 gene is very common and roughly 50% of the European population has either one or two copies of it.  More research is needed to find out if PDSS2 is prevalent in other populations and also to clarify the biological link with caffeine.