Diet and Nutrition

Epigenetic marks play a crucial role in maintaining health throughout life by regulating biological processes and predisposition to diseases. Understanding when and how these marks can change opens new opportunities for the prevention of chronic diseases and improving quality of life. In the first part of the article, we examined the theoretical aspects of epigenetics, how and when these changes occur, and their impact on health. In the second part, we will focus on practical approaches: how to influence epigenetics through nutrition, lifestyle, and other available strategies. Particular attention will be given to critical periods such as pre-pregnancy preparation, childhood, adolescence, and aging when external factors can have the most significant long-term effects on health.

In recent years, research in genetics and epigenetics has garnered increasing attention, opening new horizons for understanding health and chronic diseases. Genetics studies hereditary traits and variations in DNA structure, while epigenetics examines changes in gene activity that do not alter the DNA sequence itself. One of the key aspects of epigenetics is that these changes can be reversible. This opens up new opportunities for developing treatments for diseases where changes in gene expression play a crucial role, such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, or metabolic disorders. Moreover, epigenetic modifications can be passed from parents to offspring, influencing the health of future generations. Understanding the mechanism of epigenetic regulation presents new prospects in medicine, particularly concerning the impact of the environment, nutrition, and lifestyle on health.

Methylation is a crucial biochemical process occurring in all cells of the body. It involves adding a methyl group (CH₃) to molecules such as DNA, proteins, and lipids, significantly influencing their functions and activities. Methylation regulates various physiological mechanisms, including gene expression, detoxification, mood regulation, energy production, immune system function, and cellular maintenance. Particularly important is the role of methylation in the liver, where it helps neutralize and eliminate toxins, which is essential for overall health.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a crucial water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in maintaining nervous system health, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis. It is essential for normal brain and nerve function, as well as for energy production in the body. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products such as meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Adequate intake is vital for normal bodily function, as a deficiency can lead to serious health issues.

What is Hidradenitis?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects apocrine glands, which are located in specific areas of the body. These glands secrete a special fluid and are found only in certain regions such as the armpits, groin, around the anus, genitals, buttocks, and under the breasts.

Due to skin folds in these areas, apocrine glands often lack oxygen, leading to blocked secretions and encouraging the growth of pathogenic anaerobic bacteria. If the apocrine glands become clogged and inflamed, this can result in painful nodules and abscesses, which may merge and form tunnels under the skin.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age.

While PCOS can present differently, its impact on health and quality of life can be significant. It’s important to recognize the signs and consequences of this condition to receive timely diagnosis and treatment.

What is depression?

Depression is a serious mental disorder characterized by a prolonged period of low mood, loss of interest in favorite activities, changes in energy balance, and a decreased sense of satisfaction with life. It affects overall physical and emotional well-being, the ability to function in daily life, and the quality of interpersonal relationships.

Depression can have different degrees of severity, and without timely treatment, it can become chronic and negatively impact the quality of life. However, depression can also be a symptom of other medical or psychological conditions. Distinguishing between depression as a symptom and depression as a standalone condition is usually based on the duration, frequency, severity of symptoms, and their impact on daily life.

There are cases where patients experiencing symptoms potentially related to thyroid dysfunction undergo standard testing for TSH hormone levels, and the results fall within the normal range. This often concludes the examination.

It is possible that, for this reason, many individuals in the Canadian province of BC remain undiagnosed for many years. They exhibit symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, yet specialists assure them that everything is fine, relying on the fact that thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are within the normal range.

Before the discovery of Helicobacter pylori, many cases of gastritis were considered chronic but relatively harmless conditions. For a long time, it was believed that gastritis was caused by an excess level of stomach acid, and treatment was aimed at reducing acidity. Other theories included the role of stress, improper diet, and an unhealthy lifestyle in the development of gastritis.

In recent years, issues related to gluten-free diets have been gaining increasing attention. Some people encounter problems associated with its consumption, undergo tests, identify celiac disease, and eliminate gluten from their diets. Meanwhile, for others, the celiac test comes back negative, and gluten remains an integral part of their diet. But are they right? Let’s delve into this topic; in this article, we will explore various issues related to gluten. You’ve got it right; it’s not just about celiac disease.