You don't like vegetables? You can blame your genes

Can you imagine eating a piece of broccoli and tasting like the bitter chocolate? This may never have happened to you, but there are people who have. This has been demonstrated by a study conducted by researchers at the University of Kentucky, who believe that There are certain genes that can make the taste of vegetables particularly bitter for some people.

The main person responsible for this phenomenon is the recipient of the taste called TAS2R38 gene. And to explain why there are people especially sensitive to bitter flavors, you have to understand what happens with this gene.

All humans inherit two copies of the TAS2R38 gene, which has two variants: AVI and PAV. Those born with two copies of AVI, are not usually sensitive to bitter flavors, but those born with a copy of AVI and another of PAV are. This is what explains that there are people who do not like specific vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage or cabbage. Although, according to Jennifer L. Smith, a doctor and one of the authors of the study, this genetic peculiarity not only causes rejection of vegetables, but also other foods such as "dark chocolate, coffee or beer".

What is the solution for people who do not like vegetables?

We are not talking about those who reject vegetables simply because of their lack of habit, since in this case the solution points rather to change eating habits, but of the people who have this alteration and who perceive vegetables so bitter that they reject them for their flavor.

Dispense with them is not the best option, since they are an essential pillar in our diet and source of minerals, vitamins and fiber. That's why you have to look for it. "Depending on the way the vegetables are cooked, their bitterness can be reduced," says the expert. If you do it with other sweeter foods (corn, onion, dates, tomatoes …) and add condiments such as spices or soy sauce, they can be more appetizing for those who have this gene altered.