Epigenetics and how good social relationships will help you be your best self

In this article we want to talk about a topic that we find fascinating and that is being discussed more and more: epigenetics, but let's start from the beginning.

As we know, genetics is the area of ​​study that seeks to understand and explain how biological inheritance is transmitted from generation to generation through DNA . Epigenetics , however, is the study of modifications in gene expression that are not due to alterations in DNA and that are heritable.

In other words, environmental factors modify gene expression. Dr. Judith Stern summarizes it as: “Genetics loads the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger.” This is so true that there are diseases for which we have a genetic predisposition, which, by controlling environmental factors (and we'll explain what these are shortly), may never manifest. Epigenetics doesn't modify genes; it simply modulates their expression.

The German scientist Thomas Jenuwein compares it to the difference between writing and reading a book. Our DNA is the book; once written, all copies will be identical, nothing will alter it. However, each reader will interpret it differently. Similarly, epigenetics allows us to interpret the same genes differently, meaning we are not predetermined by our genetic makeup. Our way of life and how we feel can help us use our genetics to our advantage; this is what we refer to as environmental factors.

The most important environmental factors are:

First and foremost, according to scientists, is diet . A healthy and varied diet has a positive impact on our bodies.

Stress is the second most significant factor . Our levels of stress, negativity, and suffering will be determining factors in the expression of our genes, and not necessarily for the better.

The third factor would be physical exercise . And it's just as important to have too much as too little. A sedentary lifestyle or exercising until it produces high cortisol levels can contribute to the development of diseases and other disorders that we'd rather avoid. Additionally, a healthy lifestyle, with a level of exercise that allows us to release endorphins, stay in shape, and look good, can work in our favor in terms of epigenetics.

The fourth factor, and the one we liked the most, is social relationships. Satisfying social relationships and self-care are increasingly important sources of well-being that contribute to keeping us healthy and happy. In the midst of this pandemic, this factor takes on special significance since these relationships are being relegated to the background, although it's something we really shouldn't neglect, as much as possible.

The fifth factor is rest. During rest, the body regenerates. It is essential that we rest and allow our bodies to do their work in order to feel well.

In short, our way of life, our habits, our way of thinking and facing life are key to the future, because as we have seen, what is important is not what is written but making the best possible interpretation, and this may be in our hands.