Research and development
Nutrigenomics does not modify genes, but allows the horse to completely use its existing genetic potential to optimise health and performances: antioxidant ability, elimination, skeletal growth, etc. Nutrition as the ability to alter gene expression. Ingredients with proven efficiency have been added to the Hi Form natural therapy products and Johnson Natural Feedformulas. These ingredients include powerful natural antioxidants and organic herb extracts to assist with Phase 1 & 2 Detox and Oxidative Stresss, these natural ingredients carry the trademarked name NutraGenomix™. These added natural ingredients allow the horse’s own genetic potential to be enhanced. This new and exciting science allows us to design nutrition approaches which aid in disease prevention and health promotion. It can also determine the relationships between food, nutrition science, and health outcomes which have been intensively analysed over the past century. Genomic variation among individuals and populations is a new factor that enriches and challenges our understanding of these complex relationships.
Nutrigenomics Research, but what exactly is Nutrigenomics?
There are over 5000 published papers and articles involving Nutrigenomics. Nutrition is the key to unlocking each individual’s genetic potential, it dictates health, maintains immune function, assists in fighting disease and many other advantages, knowing a specific genotype gives us the opportunity to put preventative measures in place
Nutrigenomics is a science that is based on the latest discoveries in nutrition and genetics. Individuals possess DNA, their genetic heritage that functions as a set of directions for the body defining the function of each of our cells. DNA is located in the cell nucleus and it determines which proteins the cell must produce.
The following method has been taught in schools for over 50 years: the DNA helix is located in the cell nucleus and is replicated in the messenger RNA (m-RNA) that is used as assembly instructions to manufacture a protein in the cell cytoplasm.
From DNA to protein synthesis
Nutrigenomics goes a step further by studying ways to optimise protein synthesis through nutrition. It is based on the following discovery:
The existence of certain nutrients in food directly influences the level of proteins produced by a cell.
In the example below, the presence of a specific nutrient (selenomethionine) increases the production of the protein that reduces exercise-induced oxydative stress (Glutathione peroxydase). The presence of the nutrient does not change the quality of the protein, but it enables the cell to produce more of it. The presence of this nutrient increases the horse’s antioxidant capacity and therefore its resistance during exercise. Antioxidants play a huge role in preventing Oxidative Stress, Phase 1 and Phase 2 Detox and inflammation.
Nutrigenomics Mechanism
How can the influence of a nutrient be measured?
Nutrigenomic innovations have been made possible by the development of computer technology. Researchers use DNA chips to precisely quantify the reactions of genes to specific nutrients which then report to identify individuals who are at risk for single-gene and complex disorders that have nutritional implications. We also understand how genetic variants interact with nutritional factors to affect disease risk and progression
What is the advantage of Nutrigenomics research?
When applied to equine medicine, Nutrigenomics allows us to go further in health and allows us to achieve a high health status and unlock the genetic potential of horses.
For further information on Nutrigenomics please contact Antoinette Foster at Hi Form
Phone 1300HIFORM or email enq@hiform.com.au
Antoinette Foster 2011©
