Cells are the smallest structural and functional unit of an organism, typically microscopic and consisting of cytoplasm and a nucleus enclosed in a membrane.  Within each cell are the instructions required to direct their activities, contained within the chemical deoxyribonucleic acid, also known as DNA. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), is a self-replicating material present in nearly all living organisms as the main constituent of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information.  DNA in humans is made up of approximately 3 billion nucleotide bases, which reside in the 23 pairs of chromosomes within the nucleus of all our cells. There are four fundamental types of bases that comprise DNA – Adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G) and cytosine (C).  Within the 3 billion bases, there approx. 20,000-25,000 genes. Genes are specific sequences of bases that provide instructions on how to make important proteins – complex molecules that trigger various biological actions to carry out the functions of life  Epigenetics is defined as the study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.

Epigenetics Controls Genes. Environmental circumstances in life can cause genes to be silenced (turned off/dormant) or expressed (turned on/active).  Diet, sleep patterns, lifestyle,  who you interact with, exercise and aging are just a few of the epigenetic triggers that can eventually cause chemical modifications around the genes. In certain diseases such as cancer, this is a fundamental issue that is being studied all over the world in an effort to treat people's individual needs, with greater success.

Epigenetic changes can be affected and reversed. With 20,000+ genes, the possibilities are immense! Research and studies are in the works to eventually map every single cause and effect of the different combinations.  The implications of this are amazing.  Picture a world where we could reverse the gene’s state to reinforce the positive genes while silencing the negative - we could theoretically cure cancer, slow aging, end obesity, and ultimately reverse genetic mutations that cause diseases, such as PJS!

In the course of life, aging processes, environmental and lifestyle factors such as smoking and diet induce biochemical alterations to the DNA, leading to DNA methylation.

In speaking with many physicians, we asked questions regarding any foods that could help assist with our objectives. Their common responses were that eating healthier supports better quality of life and there are currently many studies and activities pertaining to understanding more. Some even went as far as to say that if a person eats better and exercises regularly, they will feel better which then helps with their mood, decision making and lowering of stress levels, all of which contributes to a better overall environment. Important vitamins, minerals and nutrients

• Carotenoids:  Carotenoids are precursors to vitamin A.  Carotenoids are the reason behind the vibrant color in plants and plant foods including beta-carotene (found in orange foods) and lycopene (found in red foods). Science has shown that carotenoids stimulate the repair of DNA that may be responsible for disease and aging. Carotenoids are also antioxidants which means they could help fight cancer, especially lung and prostate cancer. Some scientists believe the carotenoids are most beneficial when used proactively before cancer forms. 
• B Vitamins – Vitamins B3 (niacin), B9 (folate) and B12 (methyl cobalamin):  These vitamins have been shown in some studies to be important in building DNA. People who take B9 are reported to have lower levels of colon and breast cancer. B12 is involved in nearly all cellular activity in the body including preventing gene mutations that can lead to cancer and keeping cells healthy through the aging process. Studies have found a connection between breast cancer and lower levels of B12. 
• Vitamin D:  Studies have pointed to a connection between vitamin D and reduced risk of certain cancers, especially colorectal cancer. A study out of Australia also suggests Vitamin D may prevent damage to DNA from the sun—damage that’s responsible for many cases of skin cancer. Scientists say there is reason to believe vitamin D is able to stabilize the structure of DNA so that it is not damaged by free radicals, which is what leads to aging and cancer-causing mutations. 
• Vitamin E:  Vitamin E has been shown in scientific studies to be especially potent in stopping the development of liver cancer. Studies in China found people who consumed vitamin E supplements or foods high in vitamin E such as wheat germ oil, nuts, seeds and leafy greens, had lower levels of liver damage and liver cancer.   According to researchers, the antioxidant is able to prevent DNA damage and even repair it in some instances. Along with this, the vitamin boosts the immune system and stops cancer cells from forming. 
• Zinc:  Zinc is an essential trace element required for maintaining both optimal human health and genomic stability. Zinc plays a critical role in the regulation of DNA repair mechanisms, cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis involving the action of various transcriptional factors and DNA or RNA polymerases. Zinc is an essential cofactor or structural component for important antioxidant defense proteins and DNA repair enzymes and may also affect activities of enzymes involved in methylation reactions in the folate-methionine cycle.