Epigenetics May Be the Reason We’re Not Extinct

Introduction

Each of us is a product of the genes in our DNA.

Epigenetics is the study of the chemical "switches" that turn the genes on or off.

You have cancer genes in your DNA, just like everyone else. So why don't we all develop cancer? So the answer to this question appears to be, "Epigenetics".

How It Works

• DNA is modified by the addition of molecules like methyl groups called "methylation". The addition of these molecules doesn't change your DNA but causes the gene to change shape.

We are all products of our DNA



• A gene's shape change makes it unable to bond with the enzymes it takes to copy the gene's message, thus "turning off" the gene.
• Reduced methylation of the genes results in the shape "opening up", making the gene able to bond with its enzyme and "turning on" the gene.
• Many of our genes cause disease, such as cancer, glaucoma, diabetes and macular degeneration. Increased methylation keeps these disease genes "turned off".

Some Results of Studies, to date...

• Studies have now shown that in humans, methylation is decreased by poor diet and smoking. In addition, a similar result was found in mice that were exposed to bisphenol A (BPA), a basic chemical involved in making plastic.
• Epigenetics is inherited! (This was a real shocker). Your poor diet and smoking will be inherited as tendencies for two generations. Your grandkids will tend to have worse health due to poorer methylation of their DNA.

It's True! Your bad habits are passed on to your kids and grandkids.

New studies are just beginning to examine the epigenetic roles of the 40,000+ industrial chemicals like BPA that we are exposed to on a daily basis.

Recommendations

We now are beginning to realize through epigenetics how our lifestyles and health choices can impact not only our own health but that of our children and our grandchildren.

For your sake and your future generations, eat a healthy diet, exercise and don't smoke (follow the key nutritional principles outlined on the Importance of Good Nutrition page). This could also help to reduce the risks many of the health problems and eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, cataracts discussed on this website.

Prevention is better than treatment!

Stay tuned as more epigenetic studies examine the role of exercise, diet, smoking, industrial chemicals and stress on our health.

We'll update this website when more results are available.

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