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Certain mutations in specific genes can lead to increased risk for Breast Cancer

Certain mutations in specific genes can lead to increased risk for Breast Cancer

There have been specific genes identified which can increase the risk of high estrogen levels which could ultimately lead to a higher risk factor for certain cancers. Two specific genes which have been identified as genetic risk factors that can cause high estrogen levels are the CYP1B1 and the CYP1A1 genes. In essence, the genetic problem we get is that the CYP1B1 gene works too fast and the CYP1A1 gene works too slow and high estrogen levels equals a high risk of cancer.

Asking yourself what this means and how can we reduce the risk factors?

Let’s start with what is estrogen and why it can be a problem.

There are two major female sex hormones and estrogen is one of them. Usually, estrogen is considered a female hormone and while females may produce more, men also produce estrogen, just in much smaller amounts. While women mainly produce estrogen in the ovaries and fatty tissue, men tend to produce small amounts in the adrenal glands and testes, and it has been found that lifestyle factors and genetics can affect the amount of estrogen made.

There are various forms of natural estrogen which is produced, each with their own form of importance concerning hormone-related cancer risks as well as synthetic estrogen which is usually found in birth control medicines, some herbicides, and even some personal hygiene products.

There are even some dietary sources of estrogen that are generally plant-derived, also known as phytoestrogens. These phytoestrogens can actually prevent and imitate normal estrogen activity. Some foods which are rich in phytoestrogens are oats, barley, flax and sesame seeds, lentils, hops, and even soy.

So why can estrogen be such a problem?

Because too much estrogen can have negative health risks! One of which is a higher risk of developing breast cancer over a lifetime. This is where the CYP1B1 and CYP1A1 genes are important as the genetic problem we get is that the CYP1B1 gene is too fast and the CYP1A1 gene works too slow causing a genetic risk where we have higher than normal estrogen levels which in turn increases the risk for cancer. These two genes need to be kept at a normal activity level.

How do we keep these genes at a normal activity level?

If these genetic mutations are found a bioactive metabolite called 3,3 -Diindolylmethane, also known as DIM, is a key nutrient that has been shown to decrease the activity level of CYP1B1 and increase the activity level of CYP1A1 – which is exactly what we want to normalize estrogen levels. It basically reduces bad oestrogens and increases good oestrogens. DIM is usually found in cruciferous vegetables specifically broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. Few diets contain the appropriate amount of cruciferous vegetables which is needed to synthesize enough DIM to protect the body and with certain gene mutations, the body cannot synthesize DIM even if there were enough cruciferous vegetables available in the diet. Therefore, an oral DIM supplement is needed in order to protect the body against certain types of cancer such as breast, prostate, ovarian, colon, and even PMS.

How can you find out if you have these genetic mutations?

A genetic DNA test can test for genetic variations that are or could affect your future health. By taking a DNA test, you can reduce the susceptibility to the risks by being proactive and implementing the science-based strategies which are recommended to you. These strategies could vary from modest changes in your environment to your diet, physical activity, or even just the nutritional supplements and medications you take.

With a genetic DNA test not only can you find out about the genetic mutations which can indicate higher risks for cancer, but you can also find out other risk factors providing you with the necessary information and tools to approach your health with precision.

Find out more about how the Gene-Well DNA test can help you safeguard your future by visiting www.geneway.co.za or discuss with a Geneway practitioner near you https://geneway.co.za/find-practitioner/

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