Nutrients from foods found to change the way our genes behave

Nutrients from foods found to change the way our genes behave

Posted by: Dena Schmidt, staff writer in Food News August 27, 2016 5 Comments

(NaturalHealth365) Our genes control everything the body does, from metabolism to breathing to the color of our eyes and hair. There is a corresponding gene or set of genes for every possible internal state and bodily process. Now a new study is confirming that nutrients from foods influence gene behavior. (this is powerful information)

Genes are segments of DNA that house codes for the production of proteins in the body. Different configurations of proteins result in different bodily processes. Proteins are made up of the amino acids and nutrients from the foods we eat. The different proteins comprise the structures and chemical functioning of cells, which in turn create all the possible actions of the body.

Ninety percent of genes influenced by internal metabolism and available nutrients

Because of this, the nutrients we eat are crucial to our ‘future health.’  In addition to amino acids, our bodies require sugars, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids.  Obviously, fruits and vegetables (organic – whenever possible) create a much healthier range of nutrients for metabolism than processed foods.

One study looked at yeast cells that had their metabolite levels changed. Researchers found that the available cellular nutrients directly affected gene behavior.  In fact, nine of 10 genes are influenced by changes in nutrition and internal metabolism.

In the past, genes have been seen as strictly controllers of how nutrients and amino acids become proteins and bodily processes. Now it is apparent that this process works in the opposite direction as well. The presence of existing nutrients can change gene behavior depending upon the quality of the nutrients.

Another great reason to favor fruits and vegetables

In short, genes act differently depending upon what “supplies” they have access to. In some genes, the difference in behavior can be quite dramatic. The study results speak to how changes in genetic protein production can affect how (and if) the body functions, grows, and fights disease.  Keep in mind, gene expression affects mood and intelligence.  So, this study offer insights into why some people respond with different intensities to medications.

The interplay of heredity and environment (nature and nurture) is clearly more complex than scientists realized. While DNA does govern metabolism, the nutrients present also influence DNA and gene expression. Who we are, how we feel, and our overall health are a combination of inherited genes plus environmental factors.

The Human Genome Project of 2013 aimed to map all the genes in human DNA. However, not nearly enough genes were found to account for all the of the body’s processes. How our DNA and genes really work requires a more expansive, complex model. The study results showing how genes and proteins can be modified by nutrition could account for how a relatively low number of genes handle all of the body’s processes and requirements.

Empowering: Our biology and health are influenced by our environment

The work of cell biologist Bruce Lipton, author of “The Biology of Belief,” points to environmental influence as a primary governor of gene expression. Environment can refer to the availability of nutrients within the body, but it can also apply to physical environment and even internally held beliefs. This process is called epigenetics.

The bottom line is that our genes, biology and health can be altered – for better or worse – at any given moment. Our DNA is much more fluid than previously thought.

Is your current environment a positive one? What kinds of nutrients are you putting into your body? Strive for solid nutrition from lean protein, plenty of organic fruits and vegetables, and the key nutrients crucial to ongoing health.

References:

http://www.nature.com/articles/nmicrobiol201530

https://www.brucelipton.com

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3442283/You-really-eat-Nutrients-food-change-GENES-behave.html

http://www.lifeextension.com/Magazine/2016/7/In-The-News/Page-01