Nutrigenetics - Nutrition For Your Genes?

Nutrigenetics is something that could change the whole face of human nutrition and health as we know it. With the help of new technology, scientists and researchers are now able to study DNA and human genes like never before. As a result,  we might be able to pinpoint and rectify genetic defects in our bodies. All with the help of some simple vitamins!

The Logic

A few years ago, there’s a good chance that a notion like nutrigenetics would have been laughed out of the room. This is mainly because of two reasons- one, it’s commonly believed that the basic edicts of good health are the same for everyone - in other words, everyone should drink a lot of water and everyone should eat fresh fruits and vegetables. This still holds sway even today. Another aspect to consider is that a few years ago, not much was known about DNA and the human gene. Today, it’s become overwhelmingly clear that everyone’s DNA fingerprint and genes are totally unique.

So what does this mean in terms of nutrition? Before we get into that, let’s look at what this means in terms of health. It’s no secret that a number of diseases and conditions are passed down through heredity. In other cases, some people are just more susceptible than others. Are these people just unhealthier than others? Not necessarily. Studies have shown that some people might have slight imperfections or deformities in their genes that lead to these conditions. Even more striking is the fact that these could be fixed with a simple dose of vitamins!

The Facts

Does nutrigenetics still seem like an overwhelming proposition to swallow? Consider this - ever wondered why some diets work like a charm for some people and don’t to anything for others? Or, take a look at the coffee factor. Some people have a high caffeine intake and develop conditions like heart trouble and blood pressure as a result. However, there are those who have the same caffeine intake and experience no problems at all. The reason for all this lies in our genes.  

The future possibilities of nutrition and genetics are very exciting. For one thing, it will soon be possible to isolate and rectify genes that are responsible for chronic diseases and conditions. Other things like premature balding, obesity and skin conditions can also be rectified. Perhaps most exciting of all is the fact that we will all be able to find the nutritional intake that is best for us. In other words, depending on our genetic make up and metabolism, it will be possible to create a diet that will always keep us in optimal health. These dreams could become a reality in the near future!