The Genetics of Dimples
Dimples have a reputation as one of those classic “cute genetic trait” examples, right up there with attached earlobes and widow’s peaks. You’ve probably heard someone say dimples are a …
The Genetics of Alcohol Flush Reaction (Why Some People Turn Red When They Drink)
One glass of wine in, and some people’s faces go from normal to noticeably red, warm, and blotchy, sometimes with a racing heart or a headache close behind. Meanwhile, the …
Why Some People Can Drink Coffee at Night and Still Sleep Fine
You’ve probably seen it happen at a dinner party. One person orders a decaf after 6 p.m. out of pure caution. Another orders a double espresso at 9 p.m. and …
The Genetic Reason Some People Get Hangovers and Others Never Do
You know the type. They had just as much to drink as everyone else at the party, maybe more, and yet the next morning they’re up early, making breakfast, completely …
Why Some Adults Can Drink Milk Without Issues (and Others Can’t)
Somewhere around the world right now, one adult is happily finishing a tall glass of milk, and another is very carefully avoiding the cheese platter at a party, already anticipating …
The Genetics of Why Some People Can Eat Anything Right Before Bed
Some people can eat a full meal right before bed and sleep fine, while others deal with reflux and restlessness. Here’s the genetic side of late-night eating tolerance. There’s always …
Why Some People Can Eat Fast Food Daily and Never Gain Weight
Everyone knows someone like this. They eat fast food several times a week, never seem to think twice about dessert, and their weight simply doesn’t move. It’s easy to assume …
Why Some People Think Coriander Seeds Taste Like Soap Too
If you’ve read about why fresh cilantro tastes like soap to some people, you might assume coriander seeds, which come from that exact same plant, would trigger the same reaction. …
The Genetics of Loving (or Hating) Licorice
Few flavors divide a room quite like black licorice. Offer it around and you’ll usually get two extremes: people who genuinely crave that distinctive anise flavor, and people who physically …
The Genetics Behind Why Some People Crave Salt More Than Others
You’ve probably eaten dinner with someone who salts their plate before taking a single bite, treating it almost as a reflex rather than a taste decision. Meanwhile, someone else at …