We all see that specific genes from our parents produce specific characteristics such as eye color, hair color, and height. Based on this experience many people believe that our genes determine our destiny, but is that really true? The short answer is an emphatic NO! While there are genetically determined characteristics that are fixed from birth, gene expression is actually quite variable and changes based on your lifestyle.
The process of gene expression is what determines which genes are actually expressed by cells in your body. The key to gene expression is epigenetics which consists of physiological mechanisms that silence or activate genes, and encompass processes which alter gene function without changing the sequence of nucleotide base pairs of our DNA. There are many such physiological processes which are activated by changes in our environment caused by many factors including exercise, diet, medications, sunlight, smoking, meditation, etc.
All of your lifestyle choices play into your risk of disease through epigenetics. Nearly all cancers, respiratory illnesses, autoimmune disorders, and cardiovascular diseases are controlled through epigenetic changes. Simply put – genes load the gun but the environment (your lifestyle) pulls the trigger!
Most disease-causing gene expression is activated by epigenetic factors meaning you CAN control it! In fact, the Centers for Disease Control states that genetics account for only 10% of diseases.
Transgenerational Inheritance of Epigenetic Change
Amazingly epigenetic changes that occur in one generation can be passed down to future generations. For example, it is known that changes in fertility initially caused by chemical exposure cause epigenetic changes to be handed down to the next generation. This is also true of traumatic experiences.
Characteristics of parents' sensory environment that occur before conception can remodel the sensory nervous system and neuroanatomy in future conceived generations. An example of this is the fact that descendants of holocaust survivors show abnormal stress hormone levels which put them at greater risk for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.
Lifestyle Choices Count for You AND the next Generations
Realize that the air we breathe, the food we eat, the thoughts we allow, the toxins to which we are exposed, our activity levels, and the experiences we undergo may be passed on to our descendants. Our genes are not our destiny – the choices we make are!
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