We're born with a genetic blueprint, including some variations we may have acquired along the way. These variations, called SNPs (short for Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms), influence certain characteristics of our DNA blueprint to change gene expression. What we now know is that diet can have effects on gene expression  leading to powerful effects on our health.And what better clinician to lead us through how to master your genes using food, than Dr Denise Furness.Strap in and have the rewind button handy. This is an information-packed podcast!Moreover, Denise has generously organised a 20% discount for the first 60 people to purchase her upcoming 28 Day WholeFood Challenge course beginning in January 2024: Use the code: NatMedPodcast20ReferencesMCM6 - lactoseMCM6 is located upstream from the LCT gene, which produces the enzyme lactase required to digest lactose. MCM6 influences LCT and lactase expression.PMID: 11788828, PMID: 12915462, PMID: 15114531HLA-DQ haplotypes - Gluten Human leukocyte antigen (HLA system) encodes the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC). These genes code for antigens (proteins) that help cells recognise self versus non-self. Genetic variations within HLA-DQA1 & HLA-DQB1 are linked to coeliac disease and other autoimmune conditions.PMID: 30763397, PMID: 29244800MTHFR FolateMTHFR converts 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate (5,10 methyleneTHF) to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). 5-MTHF is needed to convert homocysteine to methionine, therefore MTHFR supports methylation (making SAM) reactions throughout the body.MTHFR 677 T allele and increased risk for lower folate and higher homocysteine levels PMID: 25788000, 24091066, 7647779,  9545395 APO-E Alzheimer's, LipidsAPOE’s main phenotypes are caused by the combination of two SNPs that combine to form the genotypes/isoforms of ε2, ε3 and ε4 or E2, E3, E4. The E4 allele is associated with higher LDL levels and cardiovascular and neurological complications. PMID: 25328986, PMID: 11882522SLC30A8 - zinc transporterSpecific to pancreatic islets and mainly expressed in β-cells that transport zinc from the cytoplasm into insulin secretory vesicles. Allelic variants have been associated with glucose and pro-insulin levels and confer susceptibility to insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus (T2DM). PMID: 28218639, 17463249, 30936916.FTO and MC4R - weight and obesityFat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO)Melanocortin-4-receptor (MC4R) PMID: 31954858, 19079261, 26888713