On this page, you’ll discover what nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics are—the two sister sciences at the core of Holifya. You’ll also learn about genetic polymorphisms and how your DNA influences nutrition, metabolism, and athletic performance.

Nutrigenetics is the science that studies small genetic variations (polymorphisms, with “SNPs” being the most common) found within individual genes and the regions between genes. It explores the relationship between these variations and nutrients.

Our genetic makeup can affect how we respond to nutrients in terms of health. In fact, the way our body reacts to certain nutrients can vary greatly from one person to another.

These polymorphisms are what cause individual differences in response to specific nutrients (e.g., varying sensitivity to refined versus whole carbohydrates, fat absorption, and breakdown).

Nutrigenomics goes a step further by exploring the interaction between nutrients and the human genome, investigating how nutrients can influence DNA and modify gene expression. This means they can silence or activate the transcription of certain genes.

Can an optimal diet help correct a specific gene transcription profile? The answer is yes, and this is what we refer to as “molecular nutrition.” Through food, we consume molecules that can stimulate or silence certain genes, leading to either positive “homeostatic” effects or potential “dysregulation” that can impact our health.