nutrigenomika

Nutrigenomika, commonly called nutrigenomics, is the study of how genetic variation influences a person’s response to nutrients and, in turn, how diet can affect gene function. The field examines bidirectional interactions between the genome and nutrition, including how genes shape nutrient metabolism, requirements, and disease risk, and how nutrients can regulate gene expression and cellular pathways.

Approaches combine genomics with other omics technologies, such as transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and epigenomics, as well as microbiome analyses. Bioinformatics and systems biology are used to map networks linking diet, genes, and health outcomes. The aim is to develop more precise dietary recommendations and to understand mechanisms underlying diet-related diseases.

Applications include personalized nutrition strategies, risk assessment for metabolic and chronic diseases, and prevention through diet modification. Examples from research include associations between certain genetic variants and differential responses to caffeine, fat, and folate intake. However, findings are not universally consistent, and most results are not yet ready for routine clinical use. The field also faces challenges such as diverse populations, modest effect sizes, and the need for well-designed trials.

Ethical and practical considerations include data privacy, potential for discrimination based on genetic information, accuracy and interpretation of consumer tests, and ensuring that nutrigenomical insights are used to support health rather than oversell products.