A genetic variant in the FUT2 gene controls whether or not you secrete your blood type into your saliva and other bodily fluids, such as your intestinal mucosa. This alters the gut microbiome – and protects you from Norovirus.
A genetic mutation in the SERPINA1 gene causes alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. This increases a person’s susceptibility to COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and, in some cases, cirrhosis of the liver. Knowing that you carry this mutation can be a great incentive to avoid smoking and to be kind to your liver.
Genetics plays a role in the likelihood of having chronic sinus problems. This article looks at the genetic reasons driving some people to have chronic sinus infections.
Oxytocin is called the love hormone. Genetic variants in the OXT gene are linked to being more social and empathetic vs being more of an introvert.
It turns out that genetics plays a larger role here than you would think. It is estimated by researchers that the ‘heritability’ or genetic component of dental caries is about 50%. (Member’s article)
Is buying organic worth the extra cost? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to that question. Pesticides that are sprayed on conventionally grown foods affect people differently. Some people carry genetic variants that decrease their ability to detoxify specific pesticides, others may be more resilient. This is Part Two in a multipart series on pesticide detoxification.
Allergies are usually due to a mix of genetic susceptibility and being exposed to certain triggering molecules. Several different gene variants have ties to an increased risk of grass pollen allergies.