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. 2019 Mar 18:10:200.
doi: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00200. eCollection 2019.

A Conceptual Framework for Studying and Investing in Precision Nutrition

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A Conceptual Framework for Studying and Investing in Precision Nutrition

Steven H Zeisel. Front Genet. .

Abstract

Nutrients and food-derived bioactive molecules must transit complex metabolic pathways, and these pathways vary between people. Metabolic heterogeneity is caused by genetic variation, epigenetic variation, differences in microbiome composition and function, lifestyle differences and by variation in environmental exposures. This review discusses a number of these sources of metabolic heterogeneity and presents some of the research investments that will be needed to make applications of precision nutrition practical.

Keywords: epigenetics; genetic polymorphism; metabolic heterogeneity; microbiome; precision nutrition.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Sources of metabolic heterogeneity. Precision Nutrition is based on understanding the underlying sources of metabolic variation. These include genetic, epigenetic, microbiome, life-style and exposure-based differences among people. Some of these variations create inefficiencies (bottlenecks) in metabolism that are associated with adverse health outcomes in people who are challenged by their diets. Computational and mathematical modeling of the underlying complex biological systems that are involved, and the use of these models to develop individualized interventions are the bases for the practice of precision nutrition.

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