Can stress alter genetic expression?

Epigenetics is the modification of genetic expression (both favorable & unfavorable) by nutrition, nutrient levels, environment, lifestyle (including exercise and sleep habits).

Stress has its benefits to the body; triggering production of chemicals the body needs to respond to a stressful stimulus, this response was designed as a survival mechanism. Cortisol is the hormone involved in stress response; increasing in response to stress and returning to normal levels when the source of stress is gone. In today’s world people are under constant stress, causing continued elevations of cortisol. These ongoing high cortisol levels are associated with depression, fatigue, insulin resistance & diabetes, impotence, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, weight gain, and sleep disorders.

Stress is not just an emotion, it is a powerful epigenetic modifier; altering the way our genes are expressed. Under consistent high levels of stress; adverse changes to our hormone levels, sleep, metabolism, energy levels, memory, appetite, cholesterol and lipid metabolism, thyroid function, blood pressure regulation, inflammation, and more are the result.¹Some types of traumatic stressful events can actually affect the genetic expression of future generations. Studies reveal 7^thgeneration Holocaust survivors have “epigenetic memory” of this extreme stress. There are “resiliency” genes that handle stress; providing us with an increased ability to deal with stress. These genes need to be “turned on” to optimize their genetic expression. This is done by adopting a nutrition & lifestyle plan customized to your individual genetics.

More than 13 different nutrients are required to manage anxiety; one of the main effects of stress. Without optimal levels of nutrients, the body cannot produce the chemical compounds needed to handle stress response. Good examples of these compounds are the calming neurotransmitter, GABA which requires vitamin B3, dopamine which requires vitamin B6, and magnesium which is required for control of physical & psychological reactions to stress. Deficiencies of nutrients are a common problem in the human population and are easily identified and corrected.

“Optimize nutrients & optimize health”

At BioNutrix Rx we offer a comprehensive wellness package that includes: Genetic Interpretation, Nutrient testing and optimization thru targeted vitamin, mineral and nutrient supplementation, and a Nutrition and Lifestyle plan designed specifically to enable you to meet your wellness goals. One on one interaction allows me to understand your needs. This is not a direct to consumer “vending machine” genetic service. For more information on how we can help you achieve your goals request a free consultation on my webpage.

1. Smith P. M.D. What You Must Know About Women’s Hormones. Garden City, NY. Square One Publishers; 2010.