Epigenetics is new medical discipline studying and treating medical conditions that are caused by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors.
Every cell in our bodies has the potential for expressing any of the 20,000+ genes in our DNA. The production of gene proteins or "gene expression" can be switched on or off (gene silencing or "bookmarking").
Environmental factors such as radiation, temperature, dietary choices, toxic metals, viruses, stressful life events can all contribute to genetic expression. For this reason, the majority of chronic medical and mental illnesses are epigenetic disorders.
By studying identical twins, researchers find evidence of environmental impact on gene expression. For example, autism and bipolar disorder have been reported in one twin while the other twin remains unaffected. How do we explain these differences given that the DNA is the same in these children? Though they share the same womb, identical twins can experience different stresses during pregnancy and birth. Exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy or early infancy may also affect autism risk.
The science provides a road map for nutrient therapies that have potential for overcoming mental and behavioral disorders and eventual elimination of the need for psychiatric medications.
The latest research and advances in the epigenetic field has made it possible that even the most severe inherited mental disorders will be reversible. Cutting-edge nutrient therapies have already resulted in thousands of reports of recovery in persons diagnosed with violent behavior, AD(H)D, autism, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.
