With an abundance of supplements to choose from, I often ask myself, ‘which ones are best for me?’

As I scan through the ingredients and research the evidence behind the active components (evidence that, unfortunately, often lacks rigorous human trials [3]), the answer is not always clear.

One supplement could be very potent but carry side effects, another may lack potency, and some may be processed better in someone else’s body, but not mine.

Supplement usage can be subject to endless trial and error to get the right fit and combination that works for you at a specific time and for your intended purpose.

But what if you could have an individualized supplement? Individual to your metabolism, your needs, your experience, your body, and your genes?

Genetic variation

You may have heard of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as they are critical for human brain development, inflammation, and the immune response [2, 7].

There are a set of genes, referred to by their acronym FADS from now on, that allow us to synthesize omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from plant-sourced precursors within our body.

Researchers at Cornell University have demonstrated that this was not always the case [2].

Through comparison of ancient and modern DNA, researchers demonstrated that humans had less efficient versions of the FADS genes before agriculture. Their FADS genes were not nearly as effective for omega-3 and omega-6 biosynthesis because there was no need for it; they would obtain these fatty acids through their animal-based diet from hunting and gathering [2].

Over the years, our genes adapted to our diet, having generations to change the DNA from which our body and its metabolism is constructed. Even so, the FADS genes are not perfect. The synthesis of some Omega-3’s is still not as efficient as we need [9], which is why consumption of fish 2 times per week or fish oil supplementation is recommended [10].

All this to say that our genes can change over time, some with longer timeframes than others, and these genes can have an influence on the metabolism of different food components within our bodies. This is where nutrigenomics comes in.

Nutrigenomics

Nutrigenomics encompasses scientific study of how food components influence genes, and how genes influence food metabolism, along with any resulting health implications [1].

The field focuses on identifying biomarkers, such as tiny changes in your DNA, to better understand individual genetic variance in response to nutrients, as well as how nutrients can impact gene expression.

A substantial number of genes with nutrition-related roles have been exposed. They can distinguish your level of risk for gluten intolerance [4], heart attack following caffeine consumption [5], blunted weight loss based on fat intake [6], and much more.

Individualized nutrition

There is a great potential to individualize nutrition with this increasing amount of information on how our genetics have evolved.

Differences in metabolism of folate, iron, calcium, sodium, whole grain, fat, protein, lactose, gluten, vitamins A, B12, C, D, E, and other nutrients, allow for an enhanced understanding of how an individual may react to certain foods, and leads to a more precise intake of nutrients that an individual should consume for optimal health [8].

Thus, if a supplement were customized, it would encompass all the differences in metabolism, whether increases or decreases, and could account for personal preferences for any existing conditions or sports enhancements.

Still be wary when people blame their genes on their health. Soon we’ll all know the truth!

To Sum It Up

Our genes have an influence on our metabolism and are subject to change.

Nutrigenomics is a relatively new field that studies the influence of food components on genes, and vice-versa, along with any resulting health implications.

Knowing our individual metabolic genetics may allow us to tailor nutrition to a tighter fit, individualizing dietary advice for a better you!

Lucas+Roldos.jpg — Lucas Roldos

is currently completing his MSc in Human Nutrition at McGill University, where he received his BSc in Nutrition Science with a sports concentration and a minor in Neuroscience. His research examines motivation for healthy behavior.

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