Can food affect our genetic expression?
Sources:
Yes, food can significantly affect our genetic expression. This concept falls under the field of epigenetics, which explores how environmental factors, including diet, impact gene activity without changing the DNA sequence itself.
Key Insights:
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Epigenetic Influence:
- Julie Foucher notes that food communicates with our DNA, influencing which proteins are turned on and off, impacting various metabolic pathways. This plays a critical role in health and disease prevention 1.
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Phytonutrients and Epigenetics:
- Lucia Aronica explains that certain food compounds, such as those found in broccoli and green tea, can remodel chromatin and alter gene expression. These compounds aid in DNA protection and can influence long-term health outcomes 2.
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Direct Effects on Health:
- Dr. Casey Means highlights that whole foods can positively modify genetic expression, enhancing metabolic health and decreasing inflammatory pathways. On the contrary, poor dietary choices can lead to unfavorable epigenetic changes 3.
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Gut Microbiome Interactions:
- Dr. David Perlmutter discusses how plant-based foods can alter the genetic expression of gut bacteria, which influences their behavior and the production of vital compounds like vitamins and neurotransmitters. This underscores the profound impact of diet on overall health 4.
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Micro and Macronutrients:
- Shawn Stevenson points out that every meal can alter the expression of thousands of genes, reflecting the importance of dietary choices in shaping our cellular and genetic makeup 5.
These insights collectively reinforce the idea that our diet profoundly influences genetic expression, impacting our health at a fundamental level.
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