How Our Genes Shape Our Lifespans: The role of Genetics and Supplements

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Most of us wish to live long and healthy lives to see our children thrive and grow up. Even the majority of those without children want to get the most out of life while we can, whether it be in our career, social circles, helping others, or through continuous self-improvement. Our DNA, the genetic blueprint that makes us unique as individuals, plays a crucial role in shaping our health and determining how long we may live. Understanding the impact of genetics on longevity can empower one to make informed choices and take proactive steps to lead healthier lives.

This article will explore how one’s DNA and genetics can influence their lifespan, highlight the importance of identifying and managing any deficiencies, and how personalised supplement plans could perhaps support your journey towards a longer, healthier life.

Our genes contain valuable information about our health. Some individuals may have inherited genetic variations that make them more susceptible to certain health conditions. Heart disease and diabetes are two common examples. Although inheriting “bad genes” does not guarantee a person will develop a particular disease or ailment, many experts believe they may indeed increase the risk of one developing a certain condition later in life. It can be argued that awareness of these genetic factors is important, as it could prompt one to adopt healthier lifestyle choices earlier and undergo regular health checkups to intercept any potential issues early that they may be genetically predisposed to.

It is also evident that at times medical practitioners come across people who have different genetic variations that affect how their bodies process specific nutrients, leading to deficiencies or imbalances in their bodies. Difficulty absorbing vitamin D, or the various B vitamins, which are essential for overall health are examples of this. If not intercepted early enough and managed, these deficiencies could impact such things as the immune system, bone health, and energy levels, which could all potentially affect how long one lives.

Personalised medicine has opened the door for medical practitioners to tailor health interventions to individual needs. Personalised supplement plans, based on DNA testing, offer unique insights into one’s genetic predispositions and potential nutrient deficiencies. This has allowed healthcare professionals to design supplement plans that could address a person’s specific needs based on their unique genetic makeup, support their overall health and wellbeing, which could likely increase their chances of “sticking around” for longer, and improving their overall healthspan.

People with genetic variations that impact their vitamin D metabolism (the process by which the body changes food and drink into energy) may benefit from supplements to maintain adequate levels in their body to help them potentially function better, or even potentially ward off illnesses. Scientists argue that Vitamin D is vital for bone health, immune function, and overall wellbeing. Therefore people with genetic variations that may reduce their absorption of this key vitamin may benefit from supplements to help them reduce fatigue, limit bone pain, muscle weakness, sleep, or even hair loss for example.

Genetic factors could also influence how the body processes the various B vitamins, which usually affect energy levels and cognitive function. A deficiency in any of the B vitamins could lead to a number of health issues, which include fatigue, weakness, iron deficiency, skin problems, and neurological issues. Although Vitamin B is found in a variety of foods, which include whole grains, meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and leafy green vegetables, and maintaining a balance diet helps with maintaining Vitamin B, some people may benefit from taking vitamin B supplements if they have certain medical conditions or follow restrictive diets.

Some people may also have genetic variations or conditions that affect their ability to convert omega-3 fatty acids into energy or utilise them effectively in their bodies. Based on research, it is widely believed that Omega 3 is helpful for the body in areas such as heart health, reducing inflammation, eye health, brain health, mood, good for joints, and keeps skin hydrated.

Some of the greatest sources of omega-3 fatty acids come from “fatty fish,” such salmon, mackerel, and sardines. For those who are allergic to, or do not eat fish, plant-based sources of omega-3 are also available, such as in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. In cases where it is more of a “lifestyle challenge” to obtain enough omega-3 fatty acids, and plan your diet appropriately at times… I’m thinking busy mums and/or those with a hectic working life or commitments here… supplements such as fish oil capsules or algae-based supplements (for vegetarians and vegans too) could be considered to help.

A deficiency in antioxidants could also have impacts on one’s health, such as oxidative stress, which could lead to chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or even neurodegenerative diseases. Antioxidants are also important to help the body maintain a healthy immune system. A poor or weakened immune system could result in one becoming more susceptible to infection. Scientists also argue oxidative stress is linked to premature aging, as it can damage skin cells, and result in the formation of wrinkles in the skin. It has also been stated that colourful plant-based foods, such as berries, leafy greens, and vegetables, are especially high in antioxidants, so maintaining a healthy balanced diet is also influential in reducing oxidative stress. Reducing exposure to environmental toxins and managing stress have also been found to help with maintaining the balance of antioxidants in the body.

It can be argued that personalised supplement plans could play an increasingly vital role in one’s longevity journey, whether it be to maintain energy levels at work or keep up with our kids, ensuring that we receive the nutrients we need to support our health and longevity.

Genetic predispositions and the way the body digests, absorbs, transports, utilises, and eliminates nutrients from the food we consume can significantly influence one’s wellbeing and overall health. Therefore, with the right knowledge, actions, and as ever-improving technologies becoming available to detect deficiencies, a person can take even more charge of their health.

It is always important to consult with a healthcare professional, or seek help from a registered dietitian for personalised advice and recommendations, however in many cases personalised supplement plans offer an effective way to address and manage genetic factors that could impact our health and wellbeing in the long run.

It is clear is that understanding our individual DNA holds the key to unlocking one’s potential for their best quality of life, and will likely help us all to optimise good health for as long as possible. The more people can take control of their “unique building blocks” embedded in DNA, the better chance they’ll likely have of living longer, happier, healthier lives.