Exploring the impact of genetic beliefs about specific eating behaviors on dietary self-efficacy

Future personalized approaches to weight management are likely to include consideration of genetic influences on eating behaviors. This study explores whether genetic beliefs about eating behaviors influence dietary self-efficacy and confidence. In a survey of 261 individuals of various weight statuses, we find that endorsing genetic causes of two specific eating behaviors (taste preference and disinhibition) predicts poorer dietary self-efficacy for people who exhibit these eating behaviors. This suggests there may be utility to considering eating behaviors individually when it comes to predicting the influence of genetic information provision in the service of precision medicine interventions. Individuals with high disinhibited eating and/or bitter taster status may be particularly sensitive to interpreting genetic predisposition information in ways that undercut self-efficacy and confidence.