Have you ever wondered why some people look much younger than their age, while some look much older than their age? Until recently, people thought that aging gracefully was only for those with “good genes”. It turns out that aging is dependent on not only on our genes, but also our gene expression. Genes cannot be altered because they are a fixed genetic code. The way our genes express themselves, however, is an entirely different story.
The completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 gave scientists a better understanding of how specific genes affect specific functions of the body. A 2010 article in TIME magazine, titled “Why Your DNA Isn’t Your Destiny” explains how the new field of epigenetics goes beyond our DNA and looks at how our environment and diet choices can affect the way our genes express themselves.
Epigenetics is the study of how our genes change expression as we age. The change of expression does not mean the DNA sequence is altered. Unlike changes to the DNA that affect the genotype, changes to the gene expression affect only the phenotype, or the observable, outward appearance of specific traits. “Epi” comes from a Greek work meaning “on top of, over” thus epigenetics is the study of factors on top of, or in addition to, basic genetics.
In the book titled “The Aging Myth,” Dr. Joseph Chang discusses the clusters of genes that control certain aspects of aging. He refers to them as “Youth Gene Clusters” (YGCs). Scientists then looked at these groups of genes and found natural ingredients in plants, herbs, botanicals, etc. that “reset” the gene expression. Think of this like reprogramming your computer. Although your computer may be a few years old, you can update it or make simple changes to make it run more efficiently. Just as you did not alter the actual components of the computer itself, applying these natural products does not alter our genes. It just helps them to perform like they did when they were younger- more efficiently.
Currently, Pharmanex has introduced a few different products that implement this epigenetic research under the “ageLOC” brand. Included in this brand are anti-aging facial and body sculpting skincare products, a natural energy-boosting supplement that helps to repair mitochondrial function, and most recently, a weight management system that works to reset the gene expression of those genes involved with fat storage, metabolism, and lean muscle mass.
These scientific discoveries and products are exciting to me because the way we age is no longer completely predetermined! Diet, exercise habits, lifestyle choices, and high-quality, anti-aging products now give us the ability to live youthfully, longer. I hope this article inspires you to utilize the tools available so that you, too, can add more life to your years.
Sarah Bolton 