The humbling part was, when the number of genes in human cells were counted and compared to other organisms, our genome was considerably smaller than that of many other species. For example, humans have about 25,000 genes in each cell, while the tiny water flea has over 30,000. Scientists had assumed that due to our advanced abilities and organ structure, we’d have over 100,000 genes. One way that we can influence gene activity is through the foods we eat. Food can be used as a genetic on and off switch to alter our weight, blood pressure, blood cholesterol, cancer growth, and even our chances of healthy aging.The impact of nutrition on our genes is often called nutrigenomics. To date, most of the elegant studies on nutrigenomics have been performed with a plant based, low-fat menu—specifically the Ornish Diet. Let’s look at some of these experiments: At 12 weeks, researchers found that 26 genes were exhibiting different activity in the Ornish group. After a year, 143 genes were doing the same. The genes that promoted inflammation and blood vessel injury were significantly reduced in activity. The control group showed no improvements as they maintained their standard diet during the year. A cutting-edge nutrition deep dive taught by 20+ top health & wellness experts
