Eating is a “beloved” part of human
existence. We eat greater than 86,000 times over the course of a life time for
a total ingested food weight of approximately 60 tons. Interestingly, all of us are programmed to
respond to food (nutrients) differently.
Yes, we all need fats, protein, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins to
survive. However, our genetic makeup
(your genes) can dramatically affect your need for, or response to, certain nutrients. Genes are composed of DNA and create a
blueprint of what we are (such as hair color), determine our susceptibility to
diseases, designate our fitness capabilities and markedly influence your longevity,
just to name a few. We often talk about
diseases as being due to bad genes or “bad luck”, while good health and
longevity are described as “good luck” or good genes. While it is true that genetic coding can
pre-program us to certain diseases, body shape or intellect, many genes can be
coaxed into the right direction by lifestyle and nutrition. Also, control of our environment (less toxin
exposure) can also coax our genes into the right direction. If you had a clear understanding of your
genetic makeup you could adjust your lifestyle and nutrition accordingly. Nutritional genomics is an area of science
that has developed recently. This
science comprises the interplay between your genes, your diet and your
lifestyle. Understanding your genetic
makeup and what nutritional and lifestyle interventions you do and do not need
to make to improve your health, fitness and longevity can have a tremendous
impact on your life.
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