Episode 143: Nutrigenomics with Dr. Yael Joffe
Our genes influence not just the color of our eyes or our height, but also how we respond to things in our world: how we respond to the food we eat, the exercise we do, how we process trauma and stress. Understanding your genetics can equate to better self-knowledge because understanding your own blueprint gives you insight about who you are—and how you exist in the world.
On this episode of the Funk’tional Nutrition Podcast, Erin sits down for a fascinating conversation with Yael Joffe, PhD, RD, FACN and dives deep into the facets of nutrigenomics, epigenetics, genetic testing and how we can apply this data to not only understand ourselves better, but also to better our health. Whether you’re looking for insight into an autoimmune condition, weight loss or to gain a more complete understanding of your own gene expression, nutrigenomics is an increasingly viable option for those looking to optimize their health.
In the rapidly-evolving discipline of nutrigenomics, Dr. Yael Joffe is globally acknowledged as a leading expert in the field. She is a highly sought-after speaker, has co-authored two books, ‘It’s Not Just Your Genes’ and ‘Genes To Plate’, and has been published in multiple peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Yael is at the forefront of nutrigenomic education and has helped develop and supervise nutrigenomics courses around the world, including her own Manuka courses, which have trained hundreds of healthcare practitioners globally. She is currently an Adjunct Professor, teaching Nutrigenomics at Rutgers University and MUIH. She is co-founder and Chief Science Officer of 3X4 Genetics.
In this episode:
An introduction to genetics [6:14]
WTF is the MTHFR gene variant [10:35]
“MTHFR Syndrome,” and what it means for the field of genetics [12:45]
The argument against making diet/lifestyle recommendations based off one gene [16:17]
Epigenetics: how environmental & lifestyle factors influence our gene expression [18:23]
Using nutrition as an epigenetic mechanism to improve health [22:50]
Nutrigenetics vs Nutrigenomics: Insight vs Action [25:14]
Translational nutrigenomics and why there’s no one diet that suits everyone [26:00]
Applying genetic testing data to personalized nutrition recommendations [27:38]
The 3 ways genes influence how we respond to hunger, satiety and exercise differently [35:04]
How genetic testing helps us to reduce shame and be seen for who we are [38:00]
Other insights genetic testing can tell us about our core processes [40:46]
The best way to go about genetic testing [44:05]
Debunking the misconception surrounding your inherited genes [46:34]
Resources mentioned:
BioKult Boosted probiotic supplement (3/9/21: NEW CODE! Save 15% off your entire order with code FUNK15!)
Organifi supplement powder (Enter code FUNK for 20% off your order!)
3X4 Genetics, Nutrigenetic testing
Learn more about Dr. Yael Joffe
Watch: Brain Health Workshop - The Genomics of Brain Health by Yael Joffe PhD RD FACN
Learn More About Functional Nutrition
