Caffeine craving is all down to you genes, according to new research

The way we drink caffeine is not just random

Genetics plays a big role in a lot of the addictions like smoking and alcohol consumption. And now it turns out that DNA is responsible for how much caffeine we drink. According to the experts addiction to the coffee is partly grounded in the human DNA.
Genetic factors may explain why some people feel such a strong need to consume large amounts of caffeine. This is the last discovery of the American scientists. They published their study in the prestigious journal PLoS Genetics.
A team of U.S. experts examined the genetic variations of 40 000 people and has established a link between genes and the high intake of caffeinated beverages and foods such as tea, coffee, chocolate and more.
The head of the research Dr Neil Caporaso from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the U.S. claims that people with a specific genetic mutation consume on average 40 mg more caffeine (or 1/3 cup of coffee or cola can) than the people, who don’t have the mutation.
The stretches of the DNA that are associated with high caffeine consumption contain two genes which are believed to be involved in the way the body processes the caffeine. The first gene, named CYP1A2, breaks down the caffeine in the body, while the second gene, called AHR, helps to regulate the first one.
There are thousands of genes that science associated with certain medical conditions, but about the link between DNA and preferences for certain foods and drinks are still unknown for the experts. This study is the first one of its kind study that establishes a link between caffeine consumption with certain hereditary factors.
„The point is that the way we drink caffeine is not just random – it’s related to the genetic hand of cards you were dealt”, Dr Caporaso said.