Commentary - Journal of Nutrition and Human Health (2025) Volume 9, Issue 1
Nutrigenomics and Dietary Strategies in the Prevention and Management of Chronic Diseases
Yuk Tan*Department of Nutritional Science, University of Tokyo, Japan
- *Corresponding Author:
- Yuk Tan
Department of Nutritional Science
University of Tokyo, Japan
E-mail: yuk@tan.jp
Received: 01-Mar-2025, Manuscript No. AAJNHH-25-169895; Editor assigned: 03-Mar-2025, PreQC No. AAJNHH-25-169895(PQ); Reviewed: 16-Mar-2025, QC No. AAJNHH-25-169895; Revised: 22-Mar-2025, Manuscript No. AAJNHH-25-169895(R); Published: 25-Mar-2024,DOI:10.35841/aajnhh-9.1.251
Citation: Tan Y. Nutrigenomics and dietary strategies in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. J Nutr Hum Health. 2025;9(1):251
Introduction
Diet plays a central role in human health, influencing the risk, progression, and management of chronic diseases. Conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers are strongly linked to dietary patterns and nutrient intake. As global rates of chronic diseases continue to rise, there is growing interest in precision nutrition approaches, where diet is tailored to an individual’s genetic makeup. This emerging field, known as nutrigenomics, offers new opportunities to optimize dietary strategies for disease prevention and management at both individual and population levels [1].
Nutrigenomics focuses on the interaction between nutrients and genes, studying how specific nutrients influence gene expression and how genetic variations affect nutrient metabolism. By understanding these interactions, researchers can develop targeted dietary recommendations to improve health outcomes and reduce disease risk. For example, individuals with genetic variants affecting lipid metabolism may benefit from a diet low in saturated fats, while others with different variants may respond better to higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids [2].
The link between diet and chronic disease is well-established, with evidence showing that poor nutrition is a leading contributor to global morbidity and mortality. Diets high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium, combined with low intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic imbalances. Nutrigenomics adds an extra layer to this understanding, allowing dietary interventions to be customized to a person’s unique genetic blueprint, thereby maximizing the protective effects of nutrition.
Cardiovascular health is one of the most well-researched areas in nutrigenomics. Genetic factors influence cholesterol metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and inflammatory pathways, all of which play a role in heart disease development. Tailored dietary approaches such as the Mediterranean diet or DASH diet—can be refined using genetic information to improve lipid profiles, lower blood pressure, and reduce cardiovascular risk more effectively than generalized dietary advice [3].
Type 2 diabetes is another condition where nutrigenomics shows promise. Variations in genes related to insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and fat storage can influence an individual’s response to different macronutrient ratios. For instance, some individuals may better control blood sugar levels on a low-carbohydrate diet, while others respond more favorably to high-fiber, plant-based diets. Personalized nutrition can thus play a key role in diabetes prevention and management.
Cancer prevention and management also benefit from a nutrigenomics approach. Certain genetic variants can affect the metabolism of bioactive food compounds, such as antioxidants and phytochemicals, which influence DNA repair, cell growth, and apoptosis. Identifying these genetic differences allows for dietary strategies that may help reduce cancer risk or improve treatment outcomes, emphasizing the potential of diet as a complementary tool in oncology care [4].
While nutrigenomics holds great promise, it also faces challenges in its application. The complexity of gene–nutrient interactions, the influence of environmental and lifestyle factors, and the need for robust clinical evidence make implementation a gradual process. Furthermore, ethical considerations, including genetic privacy and accessibility of personalized nutrition services, must be addressed to ensure equitable benefits for all populations.
Continued research in nutrigenomics will help refine dietary guidelines, shifting from a “one-size-fits-all” model to an individualized approach that considers genetic makeup, lifestyle, and cultural factors. This transformation has the potential to significantly reduce the global burden of chronic diseases, improve quality of life, and enhance the effectiveness of public health nutrition strategies [5].
Conclusion
Nutrigenomics bridges the gap between genetics and nutrition, offering a more precise way to prevent and manage chronic diseases through diet. By understanding how genes and nutrients interact, health professionals can design personalized dietary plans that align with an individual’s unique biology, optimizing health outcomes and reducing disease risk. As scientific understanding deepens and accessibility improves, nutrigenomics may become a cornerstone of future healthcare, leading to a new era of personalized nutrition and chronic disease prevention.
References
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