Each person’s genetic makeup influences how their body processes differently. Nutrientshow they metabolize fat, protein and carbohydrates and how they react to specific Food ingredientanalysis of a person genome can tailor Diet Recommendations that align with their unique genetic profile (nutrigenomics).
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Aparna Bhanushali, European Board Certified-Clinical Laboratory Geneticist (Affiliated) and Head-Growth & Scientific Support at HaystackAnalytics, gave an example and shared, “For example, some individuals may have a genetic mutation. that can affect their lives.” The ability to metabolize caffeine while others can process it efficiently. Similarly, a person’s genetic makeup can impact how he or she absorbs essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, calcium or folate.
“Nutrigenomics enables us to move beyond general dietary guidelines and move toward personalized nutrition plans that take these variations into account,” he explains. By understanding how your unique genetic blueprint interacts with key nutrients like iron, carbohydrates, vitamin D, protein and fiber, one can make more informed choices that support your overall health and well-being. Dr. Aparna Bhanushali explained in detail –
1. Iron metabolism and absorption:
Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. However, not everyone’s body processes iron the same way. Your genetic makeup can affect how efficiently your body absorbs iron from food. Some people have genetic mutations that reduce iron absorption, increasing the risk of iron deficiency anemia. On the other hand, there are also genetic variants that cause individuals to absorb too much iron, a condition known as hemochromatosis. This excess iron can accumulate in the organs over time, causing liver damage, heart problems, and diabetes. Understanding your genetic predisposition can help you optimize your diet by adjusting your intake of iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach and legumes. If you have difficulty absorbing iron, combining these foods with vitamin C-rich foods like oranges or bell peppers can increase absorption and help maintain healthy iron levels.
2. Carbohydrate Sensitivity and Metabolism:
Carbohydrates are a major source of energy, but how your body processes them varies from person to person. Genetic differences can affect insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, determining whether you are more likely to benefit from a low-carbohydrate diet or need a steady intake of carbs for optimal energy levels. Individuals with certain gene variants that reduce insulin sensitivity may experience a spike in blood sugar after consuming carbs, putting them at greater risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes. For these individuals, limiting carbohydrate intake, especially refined sugars and simple carbs, may help maintain stable blood sugar levels. In contrast, others can efficiently metabolize carbohydrates and thrive on a diet that includes whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Knowing your genetic predisposition toward carbohydrate metabolism can help you make better decisions about the types and amounts of carbohydrates to include in your diet, preventing blood sugar imbalances and promoting long-term health.
3. Vitamin D Absorption:
Vitamin D is important for calcium absorption and bone health, yet many people around the world are deficient in this essential nutrient. Genetic factors play an important role in determining how well your body absorbs and uses vitamin D from sunlight and dietary sources. Individuals with certain gene variants may be more likely to develop vitamin D deficiency, even if they spend a lot of time in the sun or consume fortified foods. Vitamin D deficiency can cause weak bones and increase the risk of conditions like osteoporosis, especially in older adults. Understanding your genetic profile can help you identify whether you need to increase vitamin D intake through supplements, fatty fish, fortified dairy products or more time in the sun to maintain bone and immune health. .
4. Protein Metabolism and Muscle Growth:
Protein is the building block of muscle, and genetics largely determine how well your body metabolizes and synthesizes this macronutrient. Some people have genetic variants that increase protein synthesis, leading to faster recovery and growth of muscle after exercise. Others may need more protein intake to achieve the same muscle building results. Whether you’re aiming for muscle growth, weight management, or general fitness, understanding how your body processes protein can help you adjust your diet to ensure you meet your goals. Are getting adequate amounts of protein to support. People with slow protein metabolism may need to focus on high-quality protein sources such as low-fat meat, eggs and legumes to meet their body’s demands.
5. Fiber Digestion and Gut Health:
Fiber is important for maintaining gut health, controlling blood sugar, and promoting heart health. However, not everyone processes fiber the same way. Genetic variations may make some individuals more sensitive to fiber, which may lead to digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas when consuming high-fiber foods. On the other hand, some people may need higher fiber intake for optimal bowel function and to maintain regularity. Knowing how your body responds to fiber allows you to fine-tune your diet, creating a balance that supports both digestive health and overall well-being. For sensitive people, choosing soluble fiber sources like oats and apples may be easier on the digestive system than insoluble fiber from foods like wheat bran.
Talking about pregnant women, DT Nisha, consultant dietitian and nutritionist at Motherhood Hospitals, Gurgaon, said, “Nutritional genomics, or nutrigenomics, describes how a pregnant woman’s genetic profile interacts with her diet. is, directly affecting his health and long-term well-being.” Having her child. Pregnancy is a period of profound physiological change where maternal nutrition can significantly influence fetal growth and metabolic programming. Genomics-driven diets tailored to the mother’s genetic predispositions offer a unique opportunity to improve outcomes beyond traditional nutritional advice.
She highlights, “A major benefit of nutrigenomics in pregnancy is the ability to optimize nutrient intake based on specific genetic markers. For example, variations in the MTHFR gene, which is important for folate metabolism, may increase the risk of neural tube defects if folate levels are not adequately managed. By understanding these genetic variations, a nutritionist can personalize folate recommendations, ensuring both maternal and fetal health are protected.
DT Nisha said, “Additionally, research has shown that maternal diet can influence fetal epigenetic programming, which could potentially influence the child’s susceptibility to chronic diseases later in life. For example, women with genetic variants that affect vitamin D or iron absorption may need higher intakes of these nutrients to support fetal skeletal and cognitive development as well as prevent maternal complications such as anemia or preeclampsia. Can.
According to him, Nutrigenomics also provides a roadmap for managing pregnancy-related conditions like gestational diabetes. DT Nisha said, “Women with genetic markers for insulin resistance can benefit from a diet specifically designed to stabilize blood sugar levels, thereby reducing risks to both mother and fetus. Personalized nutrition based on genomics empowers pregnant women to make informed dietary decisions that enhance fetal gene expression and metabolic health. This precision-driven approach can help lay the foundation for a healthy future, reduce disease risk, and promote optimal fetal development.
By understanding how your genetic makeup affects nutrient metabolism, you can tailor your diet to your body’s specific needs. This personalized approach will not only enhance your overall well-being but also prevent chronic conditions.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
