The tongue can sense 5 distinct types of tastes: Bitter, sour, salty, sweet and umami, which is described as savory, but not necessarily fat. Now a study published in the Journal of Lipid Research pinpoints a human receptor that is believed to help humans taste fat. It’s a gene known as CD36, and people who have a certain variant are more sensitive to fat than others – as much as 8 times more sensitive. In addition, scientists found the more fat you consume the less fat sensitive you become. So, to achieve the same level of satisfaction, you have to consume increasing amounts of fat.

True Strength Moment: Although this research might explain why some people favor fatty foods more than others, active adults who are committed to maintaining a lean, fit physique have been known to resist all kinds of temptations, from a sweet tooth to fast food. It’s all a matter of setting priorities.