Genetics, the Next Nutrition Revolution
By Karen Kramser, MS, RD, LDN
Have you always had a feeling that there is no one-size-fits-all diet? Well new, cutting-edge science is proving your hunch was right. Why is it that certain foods nourish some people and harm others? The answer lies in genetics.
Science is quickly unraveling the mystery of how the environment around us, including what we eat, is affecting our health and well-being. Think of it like this, genetics loads the gun and the environment pulls the trigger. The name for this exciting new field of science is nutrigenomics.
Nutrigenomics is the interplay between what you’re eating and your own individual genetics. This is opening up a cutting edge, new field in health and nutrition. It’s like looking through a window, deep inside of your body’s DNA, knowing which foods are best for you.
Think of this new technology as a genetic blueprint to decode what your body needs to function at its finest.
Based upon your individual genetics, you might need more, or less of different vitamins and minerals. Iron and folate are two good examples.
One man’s food is another man’s poison. Example: For some people, moderate alcohol consumption can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, while for most people, occasional alcohol consumption isn’t a problem. Healthy fats have been super popular lately, but is a high fat diet good for everyone? Some people are inclined to gain weight on a high-fat diet while others are not. Individual genetics will also impact how well vitamin D is absorbed. Even if you spend time in the sun and eat vitamin D rich salmon regularly, you might still need extra vitamin D.
Being aware of the interaction between your genetics and food choices makes finding what works for you a whole lot easier!
Know How 2 Nourish is excited to offer Nutrigenomic testing along with a diet plan based based on your individual genetics and DNA. Because there is no one-size-fits-all diet.