Epigenetics refers to how things like diet, physical activity, and stress levels can change not only our own health, but that of our children, grandchildren, and other descendants.
Genes are sections of DNA that code for things like what we look like, what illnesses we’re more likely to have, and whether we are born male or female. Epigenetic changes affect what genes are turned on and off. Epigenetic changes don’t change the DNA code, just what genes are turned on and off. These changes can be passed down in families.
Researchers are looking at epigenetic changes and how they affect someone’s own health and that of their descendants.
For example, epigenetic changes:
| Can Happen Because of: | Leading to: |
| physical activity | a lower risk of some types of cancer |
| long-lasting emotional stress | mood problems later in life |
| not getting enough to eat early in life | obesity later in life |
| being overweight or having diabetes during pregnancy | having a baby who is overweight or more likely to get diabetes later in life |
| exposure to chemicals used in some pesticides, plastics, flame retardants, and cosmetics | an increased risk of cancer |
| smoking | an increased risk of asthma and lung cancer |
All these epigenetic changes and their health effects may be passed to future generations.
As they learn more, researchers have started developing medicines that can target some epigenetic changes. They’re also finding changes linked to illnesses. Someday, health care providers might be able to do tests to look for these changes to diagnose the conditions.
Epigenetics shows that how we take care of our bodies affects not only us, but our descendants too. To give your children, grandchildren, and generations beyond a gift toward their health, eat a balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, manage your stress, and don’t smoke.
Reviewed by: Amy W. Anzilotti, MD
Date Reviewed: Feb 2, 2022
