Glossary

Key terms in nutrigenomics, epigenetics, and functional health — explained simply.

A

Aromatase

An enzyme responsible for converting Testosterone into Estrogen.

B

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

A protein that acts like 'fertilizer' for the brain, promoting the growth of new neurons, neuroplasticity, and protection against cognitive decline.

C

COMT (Catechol-O-Methyltransferase)

COMT is an enzyme that breaks down stress hormones and neurotransmitters like dopamine and adrenaline. Your genetic variant determines whether you're a 'Warrior' (slow COMT) or a 'Worrier' (fast COMT).

COMT Gene

The gene that codes for the Catechol-O-Methyltransferase enzyme, responsible for breaking down stress neurotransmitters like dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.

E

Epigenetics

Epigenetics is the study of how your behaviour and environment can change the way your genes work — without altering the DNA sequence itself.

Estrobolome

A collection of bacteria in the gut capable of metabolizing and modulating the body's circulating estrogen.

G

Ghrelin

Known as the 'Hunger Hormone,' Ghrelin is produced in the stomach to signal the brain that the body needs food.

Glutathione

The body's 'Master Antioxidant,' produced in the liver to neutralize free radicals and escort heavy metals and toxins out of the body.

H

HLA-DR Gene

A family of genes that helps the immune system recognize and eliminate biotoxins. Specific variants prevent the body from 'tagging' mould toxins for removal.

HOMA-IR

'Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance.' A calculated score using Fasting Insulin and Fasting Glucose to detect early-stage metabolic dysfunction.

Homocysteine

An inflammatory amino acid that, when elevated, damages blood vessel linings and increases the risk of heart disease and cognitive decline.

L

Leptin Resistance

A condition where the brain becomes desensitized to Leptin (the satiety hormone), causing persistent hunger and metabolic slowdown despite adequate fat stores.

M

Methylation

A biochemical process occurring billions of times per second that repairs DNA, regulates inflammation, controls detoxification, and produces neurotransmitters.

MTHFR Gene

The MTHFR gene produces the enzyme needed to convert folate (Vitamin B9) into its active form (methylfolate), essential for DNA repair and detoxification.

N

Nutrigenomics

The scientific study of the interaction between nutrition and genes, specifically how individual genetic variations affect the body's response to nutrients.

O

OXTR Gene (Oxytocin Receptor)

The gene regulating the receptor sensitivity for Oxytocin, the neurochemical responsible for bonding, trust, and the feeling of satisfaction.

P

Phase II Detoxification

The 'Conjugation' phase of liver detoxification where toxins are packaged with a carrier molecule so they can be safely excreted from the body.

R

Reverse T3

An inactive form of thyroid hormone that blocks cell receptors, slowing down metabolism during times of stress, illness, or caloric restriction.

S

SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism)

A SNP is a tiny variation in a single letter of your DNA code that can significantly influence how your body functions — from how you metabolise caffeine to how you handle stress.

T

TCF7L2 Gene

The 'Hunter vs. Farmer' gene that regulates insulin secretion and sensitivity, determining whether a person metabolizes fats or carbohydrates more efficiently.

The Hibernation Response

A metabolic survival state where the body suppresses thyroid function and slows metabolism to conserve energy in response to perceived threats like starvation, stress, or trauma.

V

VDR Gene (Vitamin D Receptor)

The gene that dictates the sensitivity of your cells to Vitamin D. It determines how much Vitamin D you actually absorb and utilize, regardless of your blood levels.

X

Xenoestrogens

Synthetic industrial chemicals (found in plastics, pesticides, and personal care products) that mimic the structure of estrogen and disrupt the body's hormonal balance.