Epigenetics

Epigenetics is a fast growing field of science that studies how non-genetic factors may influence the genes that are passed along through generations. Diet is an example of an such an external or non-genetic factor. Until recently, scientists believed that evolution takes place over time through natural selection, and that the actual genes passed from parent to offspring are not affected by environmental or behavioral factors. Scientists in the field of epigenetics how suggest that the characteristics a parent develops during their lifetime (e.g. obesity) can have a rapid and direct impact on the genes that parent passes to their children. Epigenetic factors have the potential to “cut both ways.” For example, the genes of a future generation could be negatively impacted by a parent’s decision to smoke while pregnant. In contrast, the genes the affect aging and longevity could be favorably impacted by a parent who has made decisions or lived in an environment conducive to longevity.