Overview

DNA methylation plays a central, potentially lasting, (and heritable) regulatory role in health and disease. Aberrant methylation patterns, resulting in regions of hyper- and hypomethylation, influence the course of most, if not all, chronic disease. In cancer, it is understood that epimutations outpace genetic mutations 10:1. It's also understood that lifestyle factors can profoundly influence epigenetic methylation expression. Integrative and Functional Medicine clinicians, in employing a systems approach to care, are arguably best suited to optimize their patient's genetic expression.

Learning Objectives

• Review DNA methylation and its importance to aging and healthspan
• Discuss the wide range of factors that influence methylation status
• Provide practical assessment and intervention tools to support balanced methylation, including supplements, diet, and lifestyle
• Learn what's next in assessing the methylome in clinical practice