The final aspect – genetics - is relatively novel, as
genetic and epigenetic responses are only
recently being considered as affecting disease
risk. With an understanding of an individual’s
genetic and epigenetic makeup, health outcomes
during pregnancy, birth and throughout life can
be improved.
This article
is only an
overview, a
glimpse into
the complex
world of
‘Nutrition’.
Although these elements are
discussed in a distinct fashion,
one must appreciate that they are
all interrelated and cannot be
viewed in isolation. For
instance, policy can dictate what
individuals should eat and drink,
thereby influencing their genetic
and epigenetic make up. In turn,
changes in gene expression
patterns underlie mechanisms th
at affect the individual’s health
Let us take it one step further. We can say that
and disease outcomes during
‘Nutrition’ also extends into our awareness of
their lifetime.
how connected we are to the universe. The
Furthermore, one must also remember that
although we tried to widen the common
understanding of what ‘Nutrition’ is, our
enumeration of four elements is still a
simplification. ‘Nutrition’ goes beyond the food
we eat and the products we buy from the grocery
store. It is connected to our long-term health,
directing government policies, and physical and
mental
development
of
children from adolescence to adulthood.
fundamental principle of conservation of
energy dictates that we are part of a balanced
cycle of energy creation and destruction. What
feeds us will in turn feed on us as
well. ‘Nutrition’ is linked to the core of
our existence.
Issue 3 | Nutrition of Everything | 3