The kinds of diseases we now see have drastically changed to inflammatory – and thus largely preventable – conditions.”
~Ted Schettler, MD,MPH
Belief that environmental factors – including everything from exposure to pollutants and toxins, to diet, exercise and social connections – are looking to be more important than genetics in determining risk of certain diseases.
“Disease patterns over the last century have expectedly evolved as people live longer.” ~Ted Schettler
Alzheimer’s Disease Genes may increase risk, but the actual processes leading to these conditions can be highly influenced by environmental factors. A study done of the ApoE4 gene in Nigeria shows a picture of a group of people born with the gene who would be thought to have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s. The group lives on a low-calorie, plant-based diet – the findings – there was no significant association between Alzheimer’s and the ApoE4 gene. A Swedish study concludes by showing ApoE4 alone to modestly increase risk, but when combined with our western diet, tobacco smoking and alcohol, the risk of Alzheimer’s increased.
The studies show how difficult it is to separate genetic and environmental influences. We can look, listen, and continue to learn through studies being done. The tools we have to employ are the ones within our control – Make informed dietary choices, limit pollutant and toxin exposure and stay physically and mentally active.
Parkinson’s Disease A 1990 study revealed those suffering from early onset Parkinson’s – before age 50 – were dealing with a hereditary condition. Research began to suspect pesticides as catalysts for Parkinson’s. Links between rural living and drinking well water – between agricultural work and the disease.
There are many cases that lie on the spectrum between the two groups, and are likely caused by a mix of both genetic and environmental factors. “Inflammation and excessive oxidative stress play critical roles in the developement and progression of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s” -Dr. Schettler reports. In the case of Parkinson’s, this oxidative stress cause abnormalities in the production of dopamine causing the onset of symptoms. Reasearch associates risks with exposure to PCBs, heavy metals – manganese, iron and lead, carbon monoxide, and air pollution. Parkinson’s risk may be linked with a dairy-rich diet and obesity.
Environmental factors are strong determinants to health. Steps we can take to reduce risk…
- DIETARY MODIFICATIONS Reduce risks of Diabetes, Obesity, Hypertension, and Metabolic Syndrome. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet, and pay special attention to the fatty acid composition of you foods: Boosting omega-3s, and limiting omega-6s.
- LIMIT POLLUTANT AND TOXIN EXPOSURES Insecticides and weed-killers used around the house and in the garden may be toxic. Air pollution is a cause of oxidative stress. Garden and eat Organically.
- STAY MENTALLY ACTIVE AND PHYSICALLY FIT Exercise is key to staying healthy, and is an opportunity to stay engaged with the world around you. Challenge your brain – keep up with change!
ENVIRONMENT, noun. Refers to biological, physical and social elements. An environment is the whole of surrounding things. The physical and biological factors along with their chemical interactions that affect an organism.