Did you know that your genotype can give valuable information on certain key genes that are related to micronutrient (vitamins and minerals) tendencies? New research shows that variants in your genes are linked to how your body absorbs key vitamins and nutrients. This includes all the B vitamins, E, A, C, D, iron, choline, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and many more. Knowing how you process nutrients is very important in creating a customized nutrition plan whether your trying to lose weight, gain muscle, have more energy or just feel better overall.
The fascinating field of Nutrigenomics brings clarity we have never had before with greater insight into how your body responds to food and nutrients. It is a relatively new science, with a growing body of research. Genetic variations or SNPs influence your ability to synthesize enzymes involved in digestion, absorption of nutrients and the passage of nutrients into and out of our cells.
For example, if someone was shown to be genetically predisposed to being below average for their absorption of Vitamin B6, they can make the necessary changes needed. Vitamin B6 is important for nerve cell function, energy metabolism and the production of hormones, such as serotonin and epinephrine. Low levels of B6 are also linked to higher levels of homocysteine, which increases heart disease risk. B6 is found in many foods including grains, legumes, vegetables, milk, eggs, fish and lean meat. It is always more beneficial to get your source of a nutrient from food rather than a supplement.
Although we are more similar than different, there can be subtle genetic differences in how our unique bodies digest, absorb and use nutrients from the food we eat. With this knowledge, we can attain a higher level of optimum health that we could otherwise. Nutritional genomics is a promising new area of scientific research that holds a lot of potential for individualized health and dietary recommendations.
