For those who are not familiar with nutrition and dietetics, it is essential to review some basic concepts about nutrients. Nutrients are fundamental components of food that perform crucial functions in our body.

What is a nutrient?

1. Chemical Definition: A nutrient is a substance with a specific and known chemical structure.

2. Essential for Health: It is indispensable for maintaining health and well-being.

3. Inability for Internal Synthesis: Unlike other substances, nutrients cannot be produced by the body in sufficient amounts. Therefore, they must be obtained through diet.

4. Prevention and Treatment of Diseases: The lack of nutrients in the diet can lead to malnutrition and specific diseases (such as beriberi, pellagra, or scurvy), which can only be treated by reintroducing the deficient nutrient.

To maintain optimal health, humans need to consume approximately 50 different nutrients. These include:

• Essential fatty acids 

• Essential amino acids 

• Minerals 

• Vitamins 

Additionally, water and dietary fiber are essential for the proper functioning of the body. Following a varied diet is key to obtaining all these nutrients, but is this the only way to ensure optimal health?

The Role of Genetics in Nutrition: Nutrigenetics and Diet Personalization

Although nutrients are essential for everyone, each person has unique characteristics, influenced by both their genetics and environmental factors. Understanding an individual's genetic predisposition allows for a more precise adaptation of their diet and lifestyle, contributing to optimal health. This is where nutrigenetics comes into play, a discipline that studies how genetic variants affect the body's response to foods and nutrients.

For example, some genes may influence how we absorb vitamins or process certain micronutrients. With this genetic information, a dietary plan can be designed that suits the specific needs of the person. Those with genetic variants that affect vitamin D absorption may benefit from fortified foods or supplements. Another example is individuals with genetic variants in the MTHFR gene who may have a reduced ability to convert folic acid to its active form, thus requiring greater intake of folate or specific supplements. 

• Food Intolerances and Genetics

Additionally, some food intolerances may be related to genetics, as certain genetic variants affect specific metabolic pathways. Lactose intolerance, for example, is associated with the LCT gene, which determines the production of lactase, the enzyme necessary to digest lactose. Celiac disease, another condition influenced by genetics, is characterized by an immune reaction to gluten, and variants in the HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes are strongly associated with this disease.

• Diet Personalization Based on DNA

With knowledge of genetic predispositions, one can go beyond general dietary recommendations and create a highly personalized plan. For example, if a person has variants in genes that limit vitamin D absorption, their dietary plan may include foods rich in this vitamin or appropriate supplements. Or, if a higher predisposition to heart disease is detected, the diet may focus on healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, and reduce saturated fat consumption.

• Nutrigenetics and Preventive Medicine

Preventive medicine also greatly benefits from advances in nutrigenetics. By identifying and addressing genetic vulnerabilities through nutrition, it is possible to prevent the onset of certain diseases or mitigate their impact. This emerging science offers an opportunity to optimize eating habits and promote lasting health through personalized dietary strategies based on each person's genetics.

Ultimately, nutrigenetics enables health professionals to tailor diet and lifestyle to individual genetic needs, providing a powerful tool to optimize health and well-being in a personalized and effective manner. Try N·GENE and discover the innovative platform that will allow you to integrate genetics into your practice.