Epigenetics
Exploring epigenetics and nutrigenomics for personalized wellness
Surely, you wonder what the words "epigenetics" and "nutrigenomics" mean if this is your first time reading about them. And I will make it simple for you to understand the impact of these two words in your life.
We have known since we went to school as children that genetics is our hereditary mark and that our DNA is found inside each of our cells, determining our characteristics in general. For a long time, DNA was thought to be unalterable, and there was nothing to do to change our destiny. However, over the years, biochemical scientists have changed how they investigate DNA following the discovery of epigenetics and its principles.
Let's say that epigenetics are the proteins attached to our genome and regulating it. In this way, through chemical processes, certain genes will be expressed or not in the DNA sequence. This dynamism of genetics is influenced by the environment where the cells are located. It has been proven that environmental and behavioral factors will directly influence these epigenetic mechanisms.
On the other hand, nutrigenomics is a growing field that explores how our genes respond to the food we eat. It's a personalized nutritional playbook, revealing how genetic variations interact with nutrients, impacting our health and well-being.
Your morning cup of green tea or that handful of berries might do more than please your palate; they could be influencing the expression of your genes. Nutrition is one of the factors that greatly impacts the expression of our genes. Nutrients are essential in modifying epigenetic marks and impacting how genes are turned on and off. Therefore, having balanced eating habits will have long-term effects on your health and disease susceptibility.
Nutrigenomics empowers us to tailor our diets based on our unique genetic makeup, optimizing health outcomes and potentially preventing certain conditions.
But what is the relationship between both?
What we eat and how we live can directly affect the epigenetic marks on our genes, influencing their activity. From maintaining a healthy weight to supporting cognitive function, understanding this dynamic duo opens up possibilities for personalized well-being. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach but a tailored strategy that considers the unique genetic variations that make each of us.
Many companies offer nutrigenomic testing to help individuals make informed decisions about their lifestyle choices, potentially improving their overall health. Epigenetics and nutrigenomics invite us to take control of our lives. By acknowledging the impact of our environment and diet on our genes, we gain the power to compose a healthier future.
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