Give any one example of how diet may influence the outcome of a set of inherited traits or a genetic condition


Studies that look at how a gene's (DNA that encodes for a trait) expression may be controlled by the environment. DNA can have methyl groups attached to the molecule which make it more difficult for RNA and then protein to be made from that gene. This would result in a reduced level of gene expression. Certain vitamins such as folate may play a role in reducing gene expression by increasing the level of methylation of DNA. If a gene for cell division (growth) is more heavily methylated, the gene will not be expressed and cell growth will be reduced. This may help reduce the risk for abnormal cell growth that is seen in cancer formation. People are encouraged to eat more fruits and vegetables that contain folate as well as other nutrients. Many more studies are needed establish this link between folate intake and cancer risk reduction.

Nutritional Science

You might also like to view...

The RDA for riboflavin for adults aged 19 years and older is 1.3 mg/day for men and

A. 6 mg/day for women. B. 2.5 mg/day for women. C. .5 mg/day for women. D. 1.1 mg/day for women.

Nutritional Science

An excellent choice of food rich in calcium is:

A) low-fat milk. B) lean meats. C) vegetables. D) fruits.

Nutritional Science

Phytochemicals are found in both plant and animal foods

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Nutritional Science

With the exception of a few high-risk groups, the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans

recommends consuming how many mg of sodium per day? A) less than 2,300 B) less than 1,500 C) less than 3,000 D) less than 1,000

Nutritional Science