Epigenetics for the layperson

I realize most of the parents researching information on leukemia, diabetes, obesity, and other cancers, have probably never heard of epigenetics.  However, I would suggest doing at least some research on this relatively new science, as it will help establish a new belief system which you will be able to share with your child.

Epigenetics: The study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself. In laymen’s terms it literally means, “control above genetics.”  (Pray 2004; Silverman 2004, Biology of Belief, Bruce H. Lipton, PhD.)

In the last decade, epigenetic research has established that DNA blueprints passed down through genes are not set in concrete at birth.  Genes are not destiny! Environmental influences, including nutrition, stress, and emotions, can modify those genes without changing their basic blueprint. (Biology of Belief, Bruce H. Lipton, PhD.)

Definition for the layperson:  As I myself am not a biologist, I will attempt to surmise what I have learned from studying the science of epigenetics. For the past 100 years, science has been focused on genes, heredity and the common picture most of us have seen regarding DNA called the double helix. When we look at the multiple diseases out there, we have been educated to believe that most are hereditary and we don’t have much power over our lot in life.  However, over the past couple decades, albeit somewhat quietly, epigeneticists have learned otherwise.  In short, with the 50 trillion or so cells in our bodies, they have found that each cell individually corresponds with its environment. Ie: the food you feed your body both physically with our meals and mentally through our thoughts and emotions.

Why it matters:  Just as many cultures have intuitively known for thousands of years, epigenetics is giving us sound science to help the western world change our belief system. This science is helping us understand that we in fact can and do influence the health of our bodies from our external environment and our thoughts. Just as society had to re-learn the fact that the earth is round and not flat, we will have to re-learn the biology of the body as science answers questions to new mysteries.

How Just Imagine If helps:  Our animation videos are written and designed to help your children think creatively.  We are attempting, through a fun, adventurous and non-invasive manner, to show them how utilizing their imaginations and visualizing themselves healthy, may have a positive impact on their lives and the science of epigenetics helps instill those beliefs.