Epigenetic Insights: A Guide to Utilizing Epigenetic Testing for Optimal Patient Outcome

Written By
Dr. Laura DeCesaris Master Clinical Nutrition, Chiropractic, A4M Fellowship

Medically Reviewed by

Updated On
January 14, 2025

While the DNA you are born with is the DNA you will always have, it's become increasingly clear that your environment - including diet, stress levels, and pollution - can impact how that DNA is expressed. The field of epigenetics looks at differences in gene expression that affect how DNA is "translated" into actual proteins necessary for our metabolism and cellular function. From tasks like differentiating cells into various mature tissues (brain cells versus muscle cells, for example) to turning genes "on" or "off" in response to stress, epigenetics can help guide individuals towards healthier habits to optimize their well-being and support their body's natural functions.

What is Epigenetics?

While you can't change the genes you're born with, you can make an impact on how they are expressed with lifestyle and behavior modifications. Epigenetics refers to the process of how your environment and behaviors (like what you eat or how you manage stress) affect how your genes work. Think of epigenetic activity as a switch that can turn genes "on" or "off."

There are three primary ways that epigenetic changes can affect the gene expression of our DNA. These include DNA methylation, Histone modification, and non-coding RNA.

  • DNA Methylation: Involves the addition of a chemical group called a methyl group to DNA at specific places, where it blocks the ability of various proteins in the body to "read" the gene, thereby turning the gene effectively "off."
  • Histone Modification: DNA wraps around proteins called histones, making it difficult for proteins in the body to "read" the gene - effectively turning that gene "off."
  • Non-coding RNA: Your DNA is used as an instruction manual to make two types of RNA, "coding" (which is used to make various proteins) and "non-coding" RNA, which helps control the expression of genes by competing with coding RNA.

These seemingly complex processes are at the core of how our DNA expression can change without actually changing the DNA structure itself. It's all about what genes are allowed to be expressed and create the various proteins they encode.

How Can Your Epigenetics Change?

Epigenetics change as a normal part of aging and in response to the behaviors and habits you consistently perform. Stress levels and the environment can also impact epigenetic changes in the body.

From early on in life, epigenetics play a role in development. Epigenetic changes to DNA allow developing cells to turn certain genes "on" or "off" to make the proteins necessary for their specific role.

Nutrition and diet can influence not only your own epigenetics but even those of your children. A pregnant woman's diet and nutritional intake can impact the baby's epigenetics, depending on whether nutritional needs are met in utero. Additionally, exposure to various environmental factors, such as lead, can also cause changes in a baby's epigenetics that persist throughout their life.

Several additional lifestyle factors such as exercise, smoking, alcohol intake, exposure to environmental pollutants, obesity, chronic stress, infections, and even working night shifts can lead to epigenetic modifications. For example, smokers tend to have less DNA methylation than non-smokers, though after quitting, former smokers can start to see this reverse.

How Can Epigenetics Affect Your Health?

Epigenetic changes may have long-term impacts on health, affecting processes such as learning, memory formation, and the body's natural rhythms.

Epigenetic modifications regulate development and adaptation to stress over time. The resulting alterations in gene expression may be associated with various health conditions. A lifestyle that reduces exposure to harmful chemicals (like tobacco smoke or alcohol) while increasing intake of healthy nutrient-dense foods (like cruciferous vegetables) can help support overall well-being.

DNA methylation plays a central role in memory formation and storage, influencing gene expression in synaptic plasticity. Increased plasticity is linked to a stronger ability to make new connections in the brain.

Epigenetic changes to various genes related to the circadian rhythm, such as the CLOCK genes, can impact the regulation of that rhythm. The presence of inflammation and one's lifestyle habits can result in epigenetic modifications that regulate our circadian rhythm.

Ultimately, our daily habits and behaviors can have a positive or potentially negative impact on epigenetic changes to our DNA, influencing our lifespan and health span.

Different Types of Epigenetic Tests on The Rupa Health Platform

TrueAge Complete

Epigenetic testing such as TrueAge Complete looks at a variety of epigenetic markers to get a complete picture of a person's biological aging process.

DNA Methylation Panel

Methylation can be analyzed using functional lab testing, helping individuals understand nutrition and lifestyle factors that support their methylation ability.

3x4 Genetic Test and Blueprint

A comprehensive gene analysis can provide insight into health areas such as diet, exercise, and immune health. Tests such as 3x4 Genetic Blueprint evaluate genes related to detoxification and metabolism.

Summary

While there's no changing your DNA itself, epigenetic modifications that occur due to various lifestyle habits, behaviors, and environmental impacts can play an important role in healthspan and aging. Understanding how to support your unique genetic profile can help personalize nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle considerations that support your health and wellness goals.

The information in this article is designed for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care.