Jennifer Smith, PhD, RN, on The Role of TAS2R38 Gene in Vegetable Consumption, CVD Risk

Jennifer Smith, PhD, RN, discusses her new study, which indicates that taste aversion to vegetables may have a genetic component. Specifically, inheriting the PAV haplotype of the TAS2R38 gene was found to predict lower vegetable consumption due to sensitivity to bitter taste. Often called "super-tasters," patients who possess the PAV haplotype may have difficulty adhering to heart-healthy nutritional guidelines, which in turn could affect cardiovascular risk. These findings were presented at the American Heart Association's 2019 Scientific Sessions.

Jennifer Smith, PhD, RN, is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine.

Reference:
Smith JL, Estus S, Lennie TA, Moser DK, Chung MLL, Mudd-Martin G. TAS2R38 haplotype predicts vegetable consumption in community dwelling adults at risk for cardiovascular disease. Paper presented at: American Heart Associations 2019 Scientific Sessions; November 16-18, 2019; Philadelphia, PA.