Sports Genomics Part 1: SNP's

Did you know that there are between 20,000-25,000 genes in humans but there are 10 million or more SNP's?  SNP stands for single nucleotide polymorphism which, in easier terms to understand, is like a spelling error on a gene.  When a gene has a SNP on it, it alters the protein function in the body by affecting the biochemistry of the cell. 

Having a SNP on a gene can lead to some negative consequences inside the body such as increased inflammation, reactive oxygen species. For an athlete, this is a huge deal. Think about it. If you have a SNP on a group of genes that affect the body's ability to quench free radical production and inflammation, this could lead to slower recovery, decreased performance, and potential injury. 

Now, genes can be affected from inside the body and outside the body (the environment). Interestingly, certain foods can turn on and off genes and can be used therapeutically to "work around" SNP's that may be present on genes.  Which foods? Well, it's not as easy as just eating more fruits and vegetables as most Registered Dietitians recommend.  I mean, it's not a bad thing but we know that each person will have an individual "feed your genes" nutritional profile that should be followed based on their individual SNP's.  Some foods may be trigger certain pathways and biochemical cascades in one person but not another.

A key thing to remember that herbs and spices are of tremendous benefit to health and feeding your individual genes and associated SNP's. 

So, what should you do now? Think about this a bit. Sports Genomics. Let it marinate in your mind and keep following along as I will dedicate a few more blogs to this topic to help you understand more about it and some additional action items but remember, just like Metabolic Efficiency, if you don't test, you don't know. At some point, I would highly recommend getting a Genomic test done so you are more educated about you as an individual and what can help you improve your health and performance. eNRG Performance will offer Genomic testing in the near future so stay tuned.

Until next week...

Bob
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