Although we typically think the mother has a large impact on her child’s health, epigenetic research is beginning to suggest that a father’s behavior may also have a significant amount of influence. Recently, we posted a blog article on the epigenetic influence a father’s lifestyle has on his children, showing that both mothers and fathers contribute to their … Continue reading Overweight Fathers May Epigenetically Increase Their Daughters’ Risk of Breast Cancer
Circadian Rhythms, Epigenetics and Disease
Epigenetics has many connections to our cellular processes. It regulates the expression of our genes, so it wouldn’t surprise us that epigenetics is involved in the regulation of our circadian rhythms as well. But what exactly are these circadian rhythms and how can they be involved in certain processes of health and disease? What are circadian rhythms? Circadian rhythms are … Continue reading Circadian Rhythms, Epigenetics and Disease
A Fatty Diet May Affect Behavior Across Generations Through Epigenetic Mechanisms
Having a high-fat diet (HFD) is not only linked to obesity but also to an increased risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain mental health disorders. With obesity levels on the rise, it’s critical that we know more about how a HFD affects the body and find ways for early prevention. In … Continue reading A Fatty Diet May Affect Behavior Across Generations Through Epigenetic Mechanisms
How Eating Zinc Could Affect DNA Methylation and the Immune System
Zinc is a mineral that’s vital to our health and is involved in several aspects of cellular metabolism. According to the National Institutes of Health, zinc plays a role in a wide range of important processes like healing wounds, synthesizing proteins and DNA, and the division of cells. It’s even required to be able to taste … Continue reading How Eating Zinc Could Affect DNA Methylation and the Immune System
High Fat, Low Carb Diet Might Epigenetically Open Up DNA and Improve Mental Ability
Could eating less carbohydrates and more fat relax DNA and boost mental function? Researchers found that a ketogenic diet – consuming high amounts of fat, adequate protein, and low carbohydrates – increases an epigenetic agent naturally produced by the body. This, in turn, may improve memory defects and bolster the growth and development of nervous tissue. In … Continue reading High Fat, Low Carb Diet Might Epigenetically Open Up DNA and Improve Mental Ability
Natural Compounds in Grapes Could Lead Us to An Epigenetic Treatment for Depression
Recent research suggests that our diet and lifestyle can change the expression of our genes. This occurs by adjusting epigenetic marks on top of our DNA without actually making any changes to the underlying genetic sequence. For example, blueberries were found to epigenetically reduce DNA damage and drinking green tea may turn some genes on or off in women. In a … Continue reading Natural Compounds in Grapes Could Lead Us to An Epigenetic Treatment for Depression
The Epigenetic Health Benefits of Blueberries
Although blueberries are tiny, they’re more powerful than you might think. Touted for their high nutrient content – including fiber, vitamin C and K, and manganese – these little blue fruits may be able to adjust chemical marks on DNA and influence our health. Blueberries are incredibly high in antioxidants and it’s thought that this “superfood” can … Continue reading The Epigenetic Health Benefits of Blueberries
Could Exotic Herbs Carry Epigenetic Health Benefits?
A mixture of herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine may be able to reduce inflammation by adding and removing epigenetic marks on DNA, suggests a study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This alternative medicinal mixture, termed “Wutou decoction”, consists of six different herbs that have been widely used in the traditional Chinese medicine community … Continue reading Could Exotic Herbs Carry Epigenetic Health Benefits?
Marijuana Use May Epigenetically Impact Sperm Health
Marijuana has been the topic of much recent debate across the United States, and its legalization has undoubtedly gained some ground. Almost all states in the US have legalized marijuana in some capacity, whether it be for medicinal or recreational purposes which could have a positive effect on both medicine and the economy. Cannabis has … Continue reading Marijuana Use May Epigenetically Impact Sperm Health
Epigenetic Explanations For Why Cutting Sugar May Make You Feel Smarter
The beginning of a new year is often a time for setting an intention to build new habits. A foundational goal many people share is to improve their health, which typically includes positive changes in diet. Although most would think of shedding pounds or building muscle as the primary outcome of these changes, it turns … Continue reading Epigenetic Explanations For Why Cutting Sugar May Make You Feel Smarter
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 