What’s it all about?
We have all heard that we are what we eat. If you eat processed sugar and high fat foods, your risk for heart diseases and many cancers skyrockets. On the other hand, grab a kale salad instead of a chocolate bar, and your whole body is nourished.
But did you know that your daily lifestyle choices actually shape your genetic make-up? And even more, these changes are passed on through our genes! All of this is thanks to epigenetic modifications, which change DNA structure in response to changes in the environment.
Even more, scientific research is now discovering how emotions and even beliefs modify our genes. So, how did your grandparents shape your DNA? And what can you do to pass on the best genes to your children and grandchildren?
What will we cover?
In this beginner’s class, we will uncover the basis of epigenetics and DNA modifications. Using evidence-based, scientific information we’ll learn how we can tailor our genes through our daily lifestyle choices.
- How do life style choices, such as diet and exercise, change the structure and function of genes in the DNA?
- How are epigenetic DNA modifications passed on through generations?
- How can certain emotions affect your DNA?
- What can we do in our daily lives to sharpen the performance of our genes?
Who will be teaching?
Pam is a self confessed foodie and veggie lover. She completed her PhD in Biomedical Engineering in Queensland before moving to Melbourne. She is a strong advocate for promoting science in schools, and for scientists to translate their work for the lay public in a fun, easy and approachable way.