Negative genetic correlations were observed for several anthropometric traits including BMI and obesity, such that genetic variants that increased risk for alcohol consumption decrease the risk for overweight phenotypes. As alcohol has a caloric content of 7.1 kcal g−1, it seems counterintuitive that increased alcohol consumption negatively correlates with measures of obesity. A genetic variant in FTO that increases risk for obesity is also associated with increased risk for alcohol dependence.59 However, there is some evidence that high alcohol consumers have altered metabolism. A study of alcohol-dependent individuals found that those consuming the highest levels of alcohol had increased metabolism and decreased fat mass and leptin levels.60 Furthermore, high alcohol consumption can impair nutrient absorption.61 The many studies of obesity and alcohol consumption have indicated a complex relationship62 with reports of both negative and positive correlations between alcohol and BMI.63, 64 We also report a negative genetic correlation between alcohol consumption and leptin levels (rG=−0.26, s.e.=0.08). Leptin is a hormone generated by adipose cells and is involved in inducing satiety. Moderate alcohol consumption has been linked to inhibition of leptin
