\"We are what we eat\". This is what we hear and read all the time. And there is no more absolute truth than this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In fact, what we eat is strongly influenced by our genes. That is the principle behind nutrigenomics, a field of study that looks at how our genetic make-up can influence the way our bodies absorb and metabolise micronutrients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003, many scientists have been studying the link between an individual's unique genotype and nutrition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, experts have looked at so-called hyper-optimised foods and how they might affect people's health. The idea is to design a diet based on our genetics, which guarantees longevity and good health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our genetic information contains valuable data about our predisposition to develop certain diseases such as Alzheimer's and diabetes. Recent studies have found that our ability to absorb micronutrients and vitamins varies at the molecular level from person to person. For example, one group of researchers discovered four gene variants that may terminate vitamin D deficiency, a deficiency that increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Experts consider nutrigenomics to be the next frontier in the post-genomic era. Current research aims to explain how individuals develop different responses to the same diets, and how micronutrients in food are able to turn specific genes on and off.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n