Your Genes and Nutrition- The Science Behind It

10 Apr Your Genes and Nutrition- The Science Behind It

Your body is like a machine; every part plays a role. But for each part to function optimally and contribute successfully to keeping you alive, it needs the right foods and nutrients. These nutrients are divided into micronutrients and macronutrients.

1. Micronutrients are your vitamins and minerals.
2. Macronutrients are your proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

Imbalances of these nutrients can lead to various health problems, including low energy, diabetes, and poor detoxification. Therefore, you need a good, quality balance of all these nutrients. Your genes can determine how well these nutrients are absorbed or how easily they can be converted into what the body needs. Ultimately, these genes are responsible for making your body function at its very best.

Genes and Nutrition

• BCMO1 – Vitamin A
  • Vitamin A is important for eye health, healthy skin, and a strong immune system. Variants of this gene can affect the body’s ability to convert beta-carotene from plants to retinol. This potentially lowers levels of active vitamin A in the body.
• MTHFR – Vitamin B9 (folate)/Methylation
  • This gene converts folate into the active form that supports cell division, a healthy pregnancy, and synthesis of neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. Variants are linked to cardiovascular disease, low energy, and mood fluctuation.
• FUT2 – Vitamin B12
  • This vitamin is important for making red blood cells, nerves and DNA. Low B12 can lead to anaemia, fatigue, pale skin, and nerve problems.
• SLC23A1 – Vitamin C
  • This gene transports and circulates Vitamin C. We humans are unable to produce Vitamin C ourselves, so it is imperative to substitute it. Vitamin C plays a role in controlling infections and healing wounds. It also acts as an antioxidant, an iron absorber, and a producer of certain hormones.
• GC – Vitamin D Transporter
  • This gene transports Vitamin D to the necessary organs and cells. This is a fat-soluble vitamin msotly produced by the skin’s exposure to the sun. Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and retention of phosphorus. It is also important for bone health and your immune system.
• VDR – Vitamin D Receptor
  • This gene regulates the body’s vitamin D3 receptor and mediates dopamine production. Over 30% of the population carries the variant, which may lead to low Vitamin D levels and, therefore, low dopamine production.
• FTO – Protein and fat need
  • Also called the “fat gene”, it is present in high levels in the brain and other areas affecting metabolism, such as the heart, kidneys, and fat cells. Variants can increase the likelihood of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
• TCF7L2 – carbohydrate and fat consumption
  • This gene regulates blood sugar by influencing the production of insulin, which is responsible for promoting the absorption of glucose where it is needed for energy. Variants may lead to decreased insulin secretion, which may cause glucose intolerance and the development of type 2 diabetes and/or gestational diabetes in females.
• NOS3 – Omega-3
  • This gene produces the enzyme needed to make Nitric Oxide, which is known to protect and open blood vessels. Low nitric oxide production caused by gene variation is associated with cardiovascular disease.

So, are you ready to eat your way to good health? It’s easy! Simply take a look at one of our DNA tests here.