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Nutrigenomics.  Nutrigenetics.  Epigenetics.

These words that once remained in the background of the health and nutrition fields are now at the forefront of research ventures and are gaining lots of media attention due to the potential they offer people and health professionals to make informed decisions.

Nutrigenomics, or nutritional genomics, nutrigenetics, or nutritional genetics, and epigenetics provide health professionals with the information that they need to offer customized nutritional recommendations to individuals based on genetic variations and life style. In fact, these fields allow health professionals to routinely identify what nutritional and lifestyle approaches are best for their clients to maximize optimal health.  Last month, NutraIngredients featured a five-part series highlighting the past, present and future of these once unfamiliar fields and what they could mean for the future of health and nutrition.

Before diving into these fields, it’s important to understand how your genes are linked to your health, and thus why nutrigenomics, nutrigenetics and epigenetics are so useful for understanding your personal health needs.  Genes, through the proteins they encode, determine certain functions, including how efficiently we metabolize foods, how effectively we detoxify harmful substances and how we respond to environmental conditions. It is now known that there are countless genetic variations in human populations.  When a gene contains a variation (a change from the reference or native state), the protein encoded by that gene may be altered. That genetic alteration can be beneficial or disadvantageous.  The goal of these new fields is to understand the impact of these gene alterations on diet, exercise and the environment, and vice versa.

Just what exactly does each field entail?  Nutrigenomics refers to how the substances that a person consumes may influence his or her hereditary information or genome.  Nutrigenomics is currently at the center of the customized nutrition revolution, sparking the interest of scientists and researchers worldwide.  This is due to the ability of nutrigenomics to help people focus on and “capture health improvements, rather than health deterioration,” according to Dr. Ben van Ommen, Executive Director of Nutrigenomics Organization (NuGO).  This would involve using a person’s genetic predispositions to determine the best diet and exercise habits based on his or her genetic makeup, rather than waiting until health conditions arise to make needed changes.

“A statistical genetic risk to a disease or condition does not mean that you will express the disease or condition… It is an important starting point, but then the freedom and responsibility is to choose your way; to choose the right diet and optimized lifestyle for your genetic pre-disposition.” – Professor Michael Müller, Scientific Director, Netherlands Nutrigenomics Centre at Wageningen University

It is important to understand the difference between nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics.  Nutrigenetics refers to how a person’s genetic makeup will influence how he or she responds to diet, supplementation, etc, which is quite different from the nutrigenomics.   Nutrigenetics involves identifying specific genetic variations in individuals to determine differences in gene expression, and it is based on the principle that ingested nutrients or a diet lacking of certain nutrients can have a direct effect on gene expression.

Similar to nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics, epigenetics should be acknowledged as its own field that seeks to explain a different set of interactions.  Epigenetics is defined as, “the study of changes in gene activity that doesn’t involve a change to DNA.”   It refers to how a person’s overall environment – including exercise, environmental exposures and nutrition – plays a distinct role in gene expression.  This information is helpful because it allows people and health professionals to understand how factors such as where you live can affect your body, and how your body will show physical evidence of that effect.

All in all, nutrigenomics, nutrigenetics and epigenetics each have the potential to help people learn and understand their bodies and how and why they react to certain things, including diet, exercise and the environment.  This new direction for nutrition is the opposite of the “one size fits all” approach, and instead aims to provide a customized synopsis of an individual’s health, helping them understand what options they have to reach optimal health.  This new personal approach signals the start of a proactive outlook on health and nutrition that will result with each person having a dietary and exercise regimen that is personalized to his or her own needs.

Day after day people sit in front of TV and computer screens for hours on end, continuously working their eyes and diminishing their vision.  Help protect your vision by learning key aspects of how the eye works and by infusing your diet with vision-healthy selections that support proper eye function.  March is Save Your Vision Month and the perfect motivation to start treating your eyes better.

Some things to know about the eye:

The importance of the macula
The macula is in the center of the retina and is the site where nerve signals communicate what you are seeing to the brain.  It is this region of the eye that permits central vision, which allows you to read, recognize faces, and perform other activities that require viewing things head-on.

The effects of aging on the eye: Macular degeneration
Aging naturally brings about changes in sharpness of vision; however, some instances of aging can even be marked by moments of vision loss.  Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects 1.75 million Americans and is marked by a gradual decline in sharp, central vision.  Though macular degeneration does not have a cure, you can take steps to protect and support the health of your macula.

Foods that support vision health and fight against macular degeneration

Lutein and zeaxanthin are two pigments that work as antioxidants within the macula.  They protect the eyes from free radicals which may contribute to the occurrence of macular degeneration.  Foods that are rich in lutein and zeaxathin thus promote macular health.  Some of those foods include kale, spinach, peas, zucchini, brussel sprouts and eggs (rich in lutein).

There are other antioxidants and nutrients, such as vitamin A, that support vision health.  Foods that are rich in antioxidants and vitamin A, and thus promote vision health include:

Carrots.  Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which supports retinal health.  Other orange foods, such as sweet potatoes, apricots and cantaloupe are also rich in vitamin A.

Berries.  Berries are one of the top sources of antioxidants and studies have shown that they play a role in reducing various eye diseases, including macular degeneration.

Take the time to give your eyes the attention that they deserve by integrating more helpful nutrients such as lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamin A into your diet.

Healthy eating is a big part of maintaining heart health; however, it is not the only part.  Engaging in regular physical activity is also important for improving heart health conditions.  The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, or 75 minutes of strenuous exercise each week.  Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health by strengthening the entire heart system, reducing feelings of stress, lowering blood pressure, increasing HDL or “good” cholesterol levels, and by improving the circulation and use of oxygen in the body.

Walking promotes heart health.

Aerobic exercise is especially good for heart health because it helps improve the use of oxygen and over time, helps decrease your heart rate and blood pressure.  Types of aerobic exercise include walking, jogging, swimming, bicycling, and jump-roping, among others.  Walking is an aerobic exercise that has been studied and found to have great heart health benefits.  According to the AHA, walking is the most effective form of exercise to promote heart health, and studies show that for every hour of walking, life expectancy may increase up to two hours.  Use American Heart Month as the inspiration to integrate at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise into your daily schedule- the results could be life-changing!  Here are a few suggestions:

• Park farther away from entrances so that you increase the distances that you walk throughout the day.  Between work, school, shopping centers, etc. – the distances add up!
• Always take the stairs.
• When possible, avoid drive-thru service.
• Play with your kids.  Encourage them to run and play outside by joining them!  Ride bikes, skate, race, jump rope, and play games like soccer and basketball that call for a lot of moving.  If you have to stay in, play the interactive video games that require standing and moving.
• When shopping, simply browse and take a couple of laps through the mall or grocery store before you go through and actually make purchases.
• If your job has a gym or workout facility, use 30 minutes of your lunch break to eat and the other 30 to take a run on the treadmill.  If your job doesn’t have a facility, a few of laps around the parking lot is a great alternative.
• Get together with other parents at your kids’ schools and extracurricular activities.  Form a workout group or take brisk walks while your kids are practicing.
• Take early morning jogs.  A cool, brisk jog will wake you up and give you energy for the rest of your day.

When it comes to heart health, there are only a few key elements that you need to integrate into your lifestyle that can contribute to a stronger, healthier heart.   Last year, the American Heart Association (AHA) crafted a list of essential guidelines  to promote optimal heart health.

Life’s Simple Seven ™, as the list has been titled, is a checklist that everyone can use to achieve better cardiovascular health.  A nationwide study by AHA of almost 18,000 adults showed those who followed at least five of the guidelines to have a 55% lower risk of death over five years than those who followed none.  While even seven guidelines may seem like a small checklist to follow, an AHA study reports that “less than 1% [of Americans] meet all seven of [the] criteria,” compared to the 35% of Americans who report that they are in good health.

The checklist urges people to meet the following seven guidelines:

-Get active:  It is recommended that you get 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise.

-Control cholesterol: Desirable cholesterol levels fall under 200 milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL)

-Eat better:  Load your diet with foods that are high in nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, but low in substances like saturated fat, sodium and sugar.

-Manage blood pressure: Normal blood pressure levels are less than 120 mm Hg systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic, or 120 over 80.

-Lose weight:  Anyone with a body mass index, or BMI, of 25 and higher is considered overweight.  You can calculate your BMI with the following formula:

[(your weight in pounds) X 703] ÷ (your height in inches X your height in inches)

-Reduce blood sugar:  Monitor blood sugar levels.  According to AHA, people with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease.

-Stop smoking:  Smoking increases the risk of coronary heart disease and it increases the risk of excessive build up in the arteries, which in turn can lead to heart attacks.

Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that have long been linked to health benefits, especially heart health.  Omega-3 fatty acids have been scientifically proven to decrease triglyceride levels and the risks of arrhythmias, and thus the risks of sudden heart attacks.  Other benefits include slowing plaque buildup in the arteries and slightly lowering blood pressure.

Two of the most essential omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).  The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a daily intake of three grams of EPA and DPA to promote good heart health.  Both EPA and DPA support normal platelet activity, and work to maintain normal triglyceride and cholesterol levels, and normal blood flow and pressure.  Consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

There are a number of foods that can provide you with omega-3 fatty acids; however, the best source is fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, sardines and lake trout.   The AHA recommends two servings of fatty fish per week.    Other sources of omega-3s include nuts and seeds,  oils, and spinach.  Help promote a healthy heart and get in the habit of adding omega-3-rich foods to your diet.  Join us on Facebook and Twitter to learn about more great sources of omega-3 fatty acids!

February is not just for giving from the heart, it’s about taking care of the heart as well.  This year, recognize American Heart Month and add a few heart healthy foods to your Valentine’s Day celebrations.

*Start your romantic dinner with a salad that is loaded with tomatoes or served with a cherry vinaigrette.

• Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, potassium and vitamin C, all of which have been tied to heart health by various studies.
• Cherries are full of antioxidants called anthocyanins, which are believed to help protect blood vessels.

*Serve fresh salmon for your main course

• The American Heart Association recommends two servings of oily fish per week because of its extremely high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are shown to significantly reduce the risk of certain heart conditions, such as arrhythmias.

*Enjoy a glass of red wine with dinner or enjoy white wine or champagne with strawberries

• Red wine is a great source of resveratrol, a chemical compound that displays antioxidant activity and has long been considered as a contributor to decreases in heart disease.
• Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C and folate, all of which contribute to heart health.

*Finish up the evening with everyone’s favorites Valentine’s Day treat, chocolate- specifically dark chocolate

• Dark chocolate is full of resveratrol and phenols, which are good for the heart.

Have a happy, heart-healthy Valentine’s Day!

Lycopene is a carotenoid that gives certain fruits and vegetables their red color.  It is found in watermelon, red cabbage, red/pink grapefruit and especially tomatoes, and is thought to display strong antioxidant activity in the body.  Past evidence suggests that this compound may work effectively against conditions such as arthrosclerosis, cancer and infertility.   New study results gathered by researchers at Yonsei University in South Korea show that lycopene may also have heart health benefits.

The researchers recruited 126 healthy men in similar age range and with similar body mass indexes (BMI) to receive daily servings of 6 or 15 milligrams of a lycopene supplement or placebo for eight weeks.  The results, which were published in the journal Arthrosclerosis stated, “Subjects supplemented with 15-mg lycopene daily for 8 weeks showed reduction in [some] cardiovascular risk factors, for example, an increase in LDL particle size.”  The results showed those men receiving 15 milligrams of the lycopene supplement to have a 57 percent decrease in C-reactive protein (CRP), which is “a marker of inflammation and is reported to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular-related events.” The same group also showed an increase in activity of super oxide dismutase (SOD), a powerful antioxidant enzyme, along with a decrease in DNA damage in white blood cells.

The group that received the lesser dosage of lycopene did not experience any decrease in CRP levels, however; those subjects did experience an increase in SOD activity, though lower than the group that received 15 milligrams.  The group that received the placebo experienced a decline in SOD activity and no significant change in levels of CRP or DNA damage in white blood cells.  Thus, the men who received the higher dosages of lycopene supplements experienced the most heart health benefits, followed by the group that received the lower dosage.  The group that did not receive the lycopene supplement did not experience any of the same health benefits as those who did. The results may have shed light on heart health benefits of lycopene-rich foods such as tomatoes and pink grapefruits.

February is American Heart Month.  A healthy heart is crucial to proper blood and oxygen flow in the body.  As one of the few muscles that are continuously at work, the heart has a tremendous impact on the function of every other bodily system and is a determining factor in overall physical health.

Heart disease is the most common illness in the United States.  According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2010 about 785,000 Americans suffered from their first heart attack, while about 470,000 experienced a recurrent attack.  A heart attack, which is the most common form of heart disease, will affect someone about every 25 seconds and will be the cause of death about every minute, according to the CDC.

Stay tuned this month to get information on how to decrease the risk of heart disease and how to promote heart health in February and all year round.  Also check out Isotonix® on Facebook and Twitter for additional information.

Yesterday at Market America World Conference, Tanya Smith, the Director of Web Merchandising and Product Development for Market America, announced the release of three great, new health and nutrition products:

• Isotonix® Activated B Complex
• Prime™ Prostate Defense Formula
• Ultimate Aloe™ Powder

Isotonix Activated B-Complex delivers metabolically active forms of several nutrients.  Traditional forms of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid found in most other B-complex products must undergo chemical changes in order to be utilized by the body, while various factors, such as age, may decrease the body’s ability to activate such vitamins. Isotonix Activated B-Complex provides the metabolically active forms of these vitamins in isotonic form, guaranteeing that your body gets the vital nutrients it needs quickly and effectively.  Isotonix Activated B-Complex boosts energy, and helps decrease stress and improve mood.  Like all Isotonix products, you know you’re getting rapid absorption, superior delivery, and a product free of binders and fillers found in tablets and capsules.  Let Isotonix Activated B-Complex work for you.

Prime Prostate Defense Formula is a uniquely designed combination of scientifically-proven ingredients that work synergistically to promote optimal prostate health.  Enhanced with innovative ingredients such as saw palmetto and stinging nettle extract, Prime Prostate Defense Formula supports healthy prostate size and function, may help to inhibit mild inflammation associated with the aging process, can help maintain  proper urinary function, and much more!*  Prime Prostate Defense Formula promotes overall prostate health, which in turn supports quality of life.  Take the next step to a healthier prostate with Prime Prostate Defense Formula.

Ultimate Aloe is one of Market America’s top-selling products and now it is even better!  Ultimate Aloe Powder is available with all-natural colors and flavors in convenient, individually packaged servings.  Ultimate Aloe Powder promotes immune health, normal healing and digestive health and comfort.

Aloe vera naturally contains over 200 biologically active components.  Ultimate Aloe Powder contains 150% aloe concentrate, and is derived from whole leaf aloe. It retains the quality of naturally occurring Aloe vera through a proprietary extraction process called TotalAloe™, which maintains the nutritive value of the aloe while removing undesirable components.  Ultimate Aloe Powder carries the International Aloe Science Council seal that certifies the Aloe content and purity. Experience the superior results of Ultimate Aloe Powder, whether at home or on the go.

Learn more about these great new products at 8:30 p.m. tonight at our breakout. You can also follow Isotonix on Facebook and Twitter, and Prime on Facebook and Twitter for updates throughout Market America World Conference.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Resveratrol is a natural, chemical compound found in peanuts, blueberries and especially grapes.  Due to the large concentration of resveratrol in grapes, red wine – in which grapes are fermented longer than in white wine – is an excellent source as well.  Resveratrol gives off antioxidant activity and has long been considered as a contributor to decreased risk of heart disease and cancer.

A new study from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio found that resveratrol may also stimulate the fat controlling hormone, adiponectin.   Adiponectin is a “good guy” hormone produced in small fat cells that counters susceptibility to diabetes and heart disease by making the liver and muscles more sensitive to insulin.  Together, resveratrol and adiponectin “display anti-obesity, anti-insulin resistance and anti-aging properties.”

Dr. Feng Liu, professor of pharmacology at UT, stated that the study, “uncovers a novel mechanism by which resveratrol exerts its healthy beneficial effect,” and that “those who are obese, diabetic and growing older,” may be interested in its results.