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المورثات الخارقة : فتح طاقة حمضك النووي المذهلة من أجل صحة وعافية أمثل
"في هذا الكتاب يُناقش المؤلفان على نحو مُقنع فكرة أنَّ تغيير نمط حياة الانسان من شأنه أن يزيد قدرتنا الكامنة على تجاوز الاستعداد الموروث، ويُقدّم شرحاً سهل الفهم للآلية التي يتحكّم من خلالها كلّ من الوعي والبيئة بنشاطنا على مستوى المورثات، ويُقدم دليلاً جديداً على أنَّ مورثاتنا ليست سيدة علينا، وأنَّها تستجيب بدرجة كبيرة إلى خياراتنا وسلوكنا.
يشرح المؤلفان وبتفصيل مُثير كيف تقوم حميتنا الغذائية، نمط حياتنا، أفكارنا، بل حتى البكتيريا في الأمعاء أو الكائنات الدقيقة بـ""مخاطبة"" مورثاتنا، من أجل إعادة ضبط ما قامت بتشغيله أو إيقافه، ممّا يترك أثراً على كلّ جانب من جوانب صحتنا.
هذا الكتاب يُشكّل بعدة طرق تكملة لكتاب ""الدماغ الخارق""، لأنَّه يُمعن النظر في أعماق أعماقنا، ومعنى كوننا بشراً، ويفتح العين على الاكتشافات الحديثة في مجالين جديدين هما ""ما فوق الوراثة""، ""الميكروبات المفيدة""، مدموجين مع رؤى عملية من أجل جعل صحتنا وعمرنا أقرب ما يكونان إلى الكمال.
يأخذك هذا الكتاب في رحلة اكتشاف مُثيرة عبر الطرق التي يُمكن من خلالها تعديل نظام الموروثات عبر تغييرات بسيطة في نمط الحياة، وحتى من خلال كيفية استخدامنا لتفكيرنا. عندما نأكل جيداً، ونتحرّك أكثر، ونقلق أقلّ، ونُحبّ أكثر، فإنَّ أجسادنا غالباً ما تتمتع ببراعة استثنائية في التحوّل والشفاء."
يشرح المؤلفان وبتفصيل مُثير كيف تقوم حميتنا الغذائية، نمط حياتنا، أفكارنا، بل حتى البكتيريا في الأمعاء أو الكائنات الدقيقة بـ""مخاطبة"" مورثاتنا، من أجل إعادة ضبط ما قامت بتشغيله أو إيقافه، ممّا يترك أثراً على كلّ جانب من جوانب صحتنا.
هذا الكتاب يُشكّل بعدة طرق تكملة لكتاب ""الدماغ الخارق""، لأنَّه يُمعن النظر في أعماق أعماقنا، ومعنى كوننا بشراً، ويفتح العين على الاكتشافات الحديثة في مجالين جديدين هما ""ما فوق الوراثة""، ""الميكروبات المفيدة""، مدموجين مع رؤى عملية من أجل جعل صحتنا وعمرنا أقرب ما يكونان إلى الكمال.
يأخذك هذا الكتاب في رحلة اكتشاف مُثيرة عبر الطرق التي يُمكن من خلالها تعديل نظام الموروثات عبر تغييرات بسيطة في نمط الحياة، وحتى من خلال كيفية استخدامنا لتفكيرنا. عندما نأكل جيداً، ونتحرّك أكثر، ونقلق أقلّ، ونُحبّ أكثر، فإنَّ أجسادنا غالباً ما تتمتع ببراعة استثنائية في التحوّل والشفاء."
368 pages, Paperback
First published November 5, 2015
456 people are currently reading
3096 people want to read
About the author
Deepak Chopra
690 books19.1k followersDeepak Chopra, MD serves as the Founder and Chairman of The Chopra Foundation, and Co-Founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing.
As a global leader and pioneer in the field of mind-body medicine, Chopra transforms the way the world views physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Known as a prolific author of eighty books books with twenty-two New York Times best sellers in both fiction and non-fiction, his works have been published in more than forty-three languages.
Chopra’s medical training is in internal medicine and endocrinology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Dr. Chopra serves as Co-Founder and Chairman of The Chopra Center for Wellbeing, Founder of The Chopra Well on YouTube, Adjunct Professor of Executive Programs at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Adjunct Professor at Columbia Business School, Columbia University, Assistant Clinical Professor, in the Family and Preventive Medicine Department at the University of California, San Diego, Health Sciences, Faculty at Walt Disney Imagineering, and Senior Scientist with The Gallup Organization.
GlobeIn acknowledges Chopra as "one of top ten most influential spiritual leaders around the world." TIME magazine has described Dr. Chopra as "one of the top 100 heroes and icons of the century and credits him as "the poet-prophet of alternative medicine."
As a global leader and pioneer in the field of mind-body medicine, Chopra transforms the way the world views physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Known as a prolific author of eighty books books with twenty-two New York Times best sellers in both fiction and non-fiction, his works have been published in more than forty-three languages.
Chopra’s medical training is in internal medicine and endocrinology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Dr. Chopra serves as Co-Founder and Chairman of The Chopra Center for Wellbeing, Founder of The Chopra Well on YouTube, Adjunct Professor of Executive Programs at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Adjunct Professor at Columbia Business School, Columbia University, Assistant Clinical Professor, in the Family and Preventive Medicine Department at the University of California, San Diego, Health Sciences, Faculty at Walt Disney Imagineering, and Senior Scientist with The Gallup Organization.
GlobeIn acknowledges Chopra as "one of top ten most influential spiritual leaders around the world." TIME magazine has described Dr. Chopra as "one of the top 100 heroes and icons of the century and credits him as "the poet-prophet of alternative medicine."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
November 14, 2015
"Super Genes" is a self-help book. The underlying belief system is that evolution is certain and that Vedic and Ayurveda traditions are correct. The authors interpreted various studies and experiences in a way that conformed to their belief system. This is a natural thing to do, but much of Part 1 and Part 3 was speculative. If you don't share their base assumptions, these sections may hold little interest for you.
Part 1. Scientists have gathered a lot of data on epigenetics, but epigenetics is so complex that they're only beginning to understand how it might work. Basically, having a 'breast cancer' gene doesn't necessarily mean you will get that disease. Factors like nutrition, exercise, and stress can determine whether a gene is "switched on" or "switched off."
The rest was confusing, but apparently adaptation can happen through epigenetic markers on our DNA which can be rapidly changed as outside stressors change. These markers can be passed on to offspring but also changed back by those offspring. I suspect most of this section will become outdated as we learn more. They also discussed the microbiome and how the bacteria living in our gut and elsewhere affect our bodies through the compounds they produce.
In Part 2, they discussed some basic changes you can make relating to diet, stress, exercise, meditation, sleep, happiness and fulfillment which will improve your health. I've heard much of this advice before. The authors understood that people resist change, so they gave advice on how to make lasting changes. They also presented their proposed changes in terms of small, easy steps. You make one easy change each week.
In Part 3, the authors proposed a new mechanism for evolution that isn't based on random chance but on "mindful evolution." They made it clear they don't believe in Intelligent Design (which suggests an outside intelligence source), but rather the organism helps to guide its own evolution. They don't explain how adaptation based on epigenetic markers somehow resulted in useful, new DNA (especially considering how complex DNA expression is turning out to be). But their main point seems to be a hope that someday we'll be able to purposefully direct our own evolution.
Frankly, I think the book would have been better as two separate books: one on their speculative ideas from Part 1 & 3 and one with their practical advice from Part 2.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
Part 1. Scientists have gathered a lot of data on epigenetics, but epigenetics is so complex that they're only beginning to understand how it might work. Basically, having a 'breast cancer' gene doesn't necessarily mean you will get that disease. Factors like nutrition, exercise, and stress can determine whether a gene is "switched on" or "switched off."
The rest was confusing, but apparently adaptation can happen through epigenetic markers on our DNA which can be rapidly changed as outside stressors change. These markers can be passed on to offspring but also changed back by those offspring. I suspect most of this section will become outdated as we learn more. They also discussed the microbiome and how the bacteria living in our gut and elsewhere affect our bodies through the compounds they produce.
In Part 2, they discussed some basic changes you can make relating to diet, stress, exercise, meditation, sleep, happiness and fulfillment which will improve your health. I've heard much of this advice before. The authors understood that people resist change, so they gave advice on how to make lasting changes. They also presented their proposed changes in terms of small, easy steps. You make one easy change each week.
In Part 3, the authors proposed a new mechanism for evolution that isn't based on random chance but on "mindful evolution." They made it clear they don't believe in Intelligent Design (which suggests an outside intelligence source), but rather the organism helps to guide its own evolution. They don't explain how adaptation based on epigenetic markers somehow resulted in useful, new DNA (especially considering how complex DNA expression is turning out to be). But their main point seems to be a hope that someday we'll be able to purposefully direct our own evolution.
Frankly, I think the book would have been better as two separate books: one on their speculative ideas from Part 1 & 3 and one with their practical advice from Part 2.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
December 14, 2015
I need only one word to describe Super Genes. Here it is: FASCINATING!
Read
November 22, 2015Chopra brings a complex subject into better focus!!!
The relationship between mind and body is of tremendous interest. Now, Dr. Chopra focuses on an additional source of influence, the environment ( internal and external) , and how health is influences at the level of our tremendously complex genetic material. This tome is focused and scientific yet easy to read and understand. It highlights many aspects in our daily lives which can improve our lives and potentially increase longevity.
The relationship between mind and body is of tremendous interest. Now, Dr. Chopra focuses on an additional source of influence, the environment ( internal and external) , and how health is influences at the level of our tremendously complex genetic material. This tome is focused and scientific yet easy to read and understand. It highlights many aspects in our daily lives which can improve our lives and potentially increase longevity.
October 1, 2016
Listened to on CD. Reminded me a little of one of Bruce Lipton's books, lot of overlap. Excellent book on explaining the new field of epigenetics and how you CAN modify your DNA. I'm not talking about some sort of expensive gene therapy administered by a Dr. but meaningful things you can do to modify your genes.
Well worth checking out. What you think you know about your genome is probably mistaken.
Well worth checking out. What you think you know about your genome is probably mistaken.
March 30, 2021
Das beste Take-Away: selbst bei Stress eine Aufgabe nach der anderen bearbeiten.
#blinkist
#blinkist
June 8, 2020
Following the blockbuster success of their earlier book 'Super Brains', Deepak Chopra and Rudolph Tanzi are back again and this time with an even more ambitious venture. Turning on its head one of the most frequently adages, "you are what your genes make you out to be", this spiritualist-medical practitioner duo throw interesting insights on the revolutionary advances in the field of epigenetics which postulate that the genes within us may be altered to mirror our lifestyle pattern, dietary choices, fitness regimen and stress coping mechanism. In other words a potent combination of both nature and nurture will have a significant impact on the genetic behaviour within us and hence such a behaviour may be made more suitable and favorable for the radical well being of man by consciously inculcating healthy habits and practicing spiritual therapy.
The initial part of the book is quite dense with an in-depth analysis of the gene theory in general and the advances in the field of epigenetics in particular. The reader is faced with the unenviable task of ploughing through the marvelous workings of the chromosomes, the binding properties of proteins and the chemicals and hormones that are responsible for inducing pleasure and inciting pain. Even though some concepts such as the Fecal Microbiota Transplant ("FMT") pique the curiosity of the unknowing even if the revolutionary process is to put it mildly, repulsive, most of this section is more of a medical practitioner's delight rather than a layman's guide to a better life.
The second part of the book is the most interesting and inspiring aspect of “Super Genes”. This Section provides broad guidelines on traversing the path to leading a radical life. Divided into five segments, each segment proposes three kinds of choices, namely easy; hard and experimental - in a key sphere of everyday life – to be practiced rigorously and diligently. The five key spheres identified are:
• Diet;
• Health;
• Stress;
• Exercise; and
• Mind Stimulation
Super Genes concludes with yet another quasi-technical/spiritual section on mind stimulation and fulfillment. The book has typical shades of Deepak Chopra and his inimitable imprint may be easily discerned in the second half of the book. Although novel in its objective and outlook, “Super Genes” could have been much more enjoyable if the technical content and jargons were to have been kept down to a minimum and basic level. Nonetheless this book definitely serves a purpose that is altruistic and an objective that is holistic.
The initial part of the book is quite dense with an in-depth analysis of the gene theory in general and the advances in the field of epigenetics in particular. The reader is faced with the unenviable task of ploughing through the marvelous workings of the chromosomes, the binding properties of proteins and the chemicals and hormones that are responsible for inducing pleasure and inciting pain. Even though some concepts such as the Fecal Microbiota Transplant ("FMT") pique the curiosity of the unknowing even if the revolutionary process is to put it mildly, repulsive, most of this section is more of a medical practitioner's delight rather than a layman's guide to a better life.
The second part of the book is the most interesting and inspiring aspect of “Super Genes”. This Section provides broad guidelines on traversing the path to leading a radical life. Divided into five segments, each segment proposes three kinds of choices, namely easy; hard and experimental - in a key sphere of everyday life – to be practiced rigorously and diligently. The five key spheres identified are:
• Diet;
• Health;
• Stress;
• Exercise; and
• Mind Stimulation
Super Genes concludes with yet another quasi-technical/spiritual section on mind stimulation and fulfillment. The book has typical shades of Deepak Chopra and his inimitable imprint may be easily discerned in the second half of the book. Although novel in its objective and outlook, “Super Genes” could have been much more enjoyable if the technical content and jargons were to have been kept down to a minimum and basic level. Nonetheless this book definitely serves a purpose that is altruistic and an objective that is holistic.
November 22, 2020
Disregarding entirely my thoughts on the actual content & thesis of this book - I did not enjoy this. I had too many problems with it. For one, the content is all over the place. It goes from science based, to self help, back to science based, then finally inspirational. It’s not organized in a way that makes sense. Additionally, I do not think the authors effectively linked these two different themes of science and self-improvement. The science did not much support the reasoning for the advice they offered (not to say the advice is bad, but, there was nothing new). Finally, I am a scientist by training, and there was one thing I cannot get over. NO CITATIONS?! I understand this is supposed to be a book for the layperson, but claims should still be supported. There are ways to cite or reference credible sources without drawing away from content or turning away the layperson. I will not simply trust the authors’ words because they have degrees. Everyone should provide sources.
That all being said, I gave this book two stars instead of one because of its science communication. Explaining scientific concepts to someone without the training can be difficult, especially difficult if you want to explain without making the listener feel dumb. The authors did a good job of communicating the science behind this book in an approachable way. The layperson would be able to read and comprehend this book. That is hard to do, and I commend the authors for that.
That all being said, I gave this book two stars instead of one because of its science communication. Explaining scientific concepts to someone without the training can be difficult, especially difficult if you want to explain without making the listener feel dumb. The authors did a good job of communicating the science behind this book in an approachable way. The layperson would be able to read and comprehend this book. That is hard to do, and I commend the authors for that.
March 8, 2019
Sometimes you read a book at just the right time.
I've had this book for about 2 years now, and I did start it at one time before, but couldn't continue on.
I did get a lot from this book, and I know that I'll go back to it in the future.
It's a great reminder that everything we do in life, has an impact on our life, on our body.
I've had this book for about 2 years now, and I did start it at one time before, but couldn't continue on.
I did get a lot from this book, and I know that I'll go back to it in the future.
It's a great reminder that everything we do in life, has an impact on our life, on our body.
July 4, 2017
Very insightful and illustrating. This is a book written by man successful man of science convinced by the inner power of mindfulness and meditation.
Takeaways
"Human subtlety will never devise an invention more beautiful, more simple or more direct than does nature because in her inventions nothing is lacking, and nothing is superfluous."
Leonardo da Vinci
In essence, nature is all about feedback loops.
Triangle?
1-Darwinian evolution finds intelligence suspicious and/or unnecessary, including intelligent design
2-Faith finds Darwinian evolution unreal but might accept intelligent design
3-Intelligent design bridges human evolution with the influence of a higher power
Epigenerics: the study of genetically in/off switches
Epigeniric marks
The main evolution triumph is not the brain or the body. It is memory. Memory allows a mother to pass tools to deal with the entire history of human diseases to her offspring through antibodies.
Six factors that have the most impact in one's epigenome:
1. Diet
2. Exercise
3. Meditation
4. Stress
5. Sleep
6. Emotions
Inputs for BENEFICIAL Gene Activity (12)
1. Meditation
2. Love and Affection
3. Satisfying work
4. Creative Outlets
5. Hobbies
6. Success
7. Being Appreciated
8. Being of Service
9. Healthy Food, Water
10. Having Long Range Goals
11. Physical Fitness
12. Regular Routine, Free of Stress
Inputs for DETRIMENTAL Gene Activity (14)
1. Stress
2. Toxic Relationships
3. Boring Work
4. Being Ignored and Taken for Granted
5. Constant Distraction During the Day
6. Sedentary Habits
7. Negative Believes, Pessimism
8. Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco
9. Eating When Full
10. Processed Food/Fast Food
11. Physical Illness
12. Anxiety and Worry
13. Depression
14. Unhappy Friends
Takeaways
"Human subtlety will never devise an invention more beautiful, more simple or more direct than does nature because in her inventions nothing is lacking, and nothing is superfluous."
Leonardo da Vinci
In essence, nature is all about feedback loops.
Triangle?
1-Darwinian evolution finds intelligence suspicious and/or unnecessary, including intelligent design
2-Faith finds Darwinian evolution unreal but might accept intelligent design
3-Intelligent design bridges human evolution with the influence of a higher power
Epigenerics: the study of genetically in/off switches
Epigeniric marks
The main evolution triumph is not the brain or the body. It is memory. Memory allows a mother to pass tools to deal with the entire history of human diseases to her offspring through antibodies.
Six factors that have the most impact in one's epigenome:
1. Diet
2. Exercise
3. Meditation
4. Stress
5. Sleep
6. Emotions
Inputs for BENEFICIAL Gene Activity (12)
1. Meditation
2. Love and Affection
3. Satisfying work
4. Creative Outlets
5. Hobbies
6. Success
7. Being Appreciated
8. Being of Service
9. Healthy Food, Water
10. Having Long Range Goals
11. Physical Fitness
12. Regular Routine, Free of Stress
Inputs for DETRIMENTAL Gene Activity (14)
1. Stress
2. Toxic Relationships
3. Boring Work
4. Being Ignored and Taken for Granted
5. Constant Distraction During the Day
6. Sedentary Habits
7. Negative Believes, Pessimism
8. Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco
9. Eating When Full
10. Processed Food/Fast Food
11. Physical Illness
12. Anxiety and Worry
13. Depression
14. Unhappy Friends
September 24, 2017
There is a valuable message in this book about genes and how our health is not set in concrete, but it is ruined by unethical and unscientific (and vile) experiments on animals. Pretty much what I expect from the 'spiritual' Deepak Chopra.
June 18, 2018
I learned so much about myself through reading this book. I highly recommend reading prior to any diet.
April 4, 2017
This book contains a great a deal of really interesting information. The book is broken down into 3 parts and each part is then broken down into individual chapters. Part 1 is titled The Science of Transformation and gives the reader an introduction to what the book is about and basic information about DNA and genetics. Part 2 is titles Lifestyle Choice for Radical Well-Being and includes chapters on diet, stress, exercise, meditations, sleep and emotions. Part 3 is titled Guiding Your Own Evolution and gives the reader more steps towards well-being, as well as information on cells. I personally liked Part 2, the section on how to make positive changes in your life. A lot of the information provided are things I already do, such as eating a vegetarian diet and exercising. I also like how these chapters are broken down because they are really reader friendly. For example, the chapter on diet has a section on how to reduce inflammation. There are then 3 lists of things you can do to reduce inflammation labeled, Easy Choices, Harder Choices and Experimental Choices. A lot of books like this tend to be very strict and don't give the reader any options regarding making healthy changes to their lifestyle. I really liked this book because it gives you the opportunity to look through this list and pick one or two things if you aren't ready to make a huge change yet. There is a great deal of information about diet and exercise, as well as being emotional healthy.
Although this book does incorporate information about genetics, DNA and cells, it also gives the reader a great deal of information and ideas to start changing their lifestyle towards a healthy one. I really enjoyed the author's approach, as I stated in the last chapter and found this to be a very interesting and helpful book. Thank you to the publishers for sending me a review copy of this book.
Although this book does incorporate information about genetics, DNA and cells, it also gives the reader a great deal of information and ideas to start changing their lifestyle towards a healthy one. I really enjoyed the author's approach, as I stated in the last chapter and found this to be a very interesting and helpful book. Thank you to the publishers for sending me a review copy of this book.
November 8, 2021
A brilliant book by Deepak Chopra and Rudolph Tanzi in adopting a holistic approach towards well being - both the mind and the body. I found this book to be a very practical and helpful guide in implementing a clean living lifestyle, especially with the pyramid approach of implementing changes gradually over time and sticking to them for life!
I also found the overall message of the book to be very positive and uplifting - we may have been born with a set of genes... however, within each of us lies the ability to control our epigenetics i.e., the expression of our genes. And we can take control in a more intentional manner at any age, at anytime - its for us to just realize and implement changes! This is the best self help book that I have ever read in my life and I highly recommend it!!
I also found the overall message of the book to be very positive and uplifting - we may have been born with a set of genes... however, within each of us lies the ability to control our epigenetics i.e., the expression of our genes. And we can take control in a more intentional manner at any age, at anytime - its for us to just realize and implement changes! This is the best self help book that I have ever read in my life and I highly recommend it!!
May 18, 2022
DNF.. Interesting premise but lost interest.
April 6, 2022
Impresionante como se puede vender humo a este nivel. Los capítulos con influencia de Tanzi son los que rescato. Lo demás es Chopra hablando por hablar sin mucho sustento. Este no es un libro para los que crean en la ciencia y la evidencia.
July 10, 2019
This book is just perfect!
April 7, 2018
This book claims to reveal a pathway to “drastic wellbeing,” which allows individuals to control our gene activities and achieve much better health and quality of life. However, the book fails to deliver this promise.
The book has three parts. In the first part, the science of epigenetics and micro-organisms are discussed. The second part outlines lifestyle changes we should make according to such science. The third part pounders the question of whether Darwin’s evolution theory needs to be modified in light of the new knowledge of epigenetics.
The first part is pretty interesting. A lot of evidence was presented, which shows that gene activities are modulated by “epigenome,” which is the substance in the cell but not in the DNA sequences. The epigenome is influenced by environment and lifestyle. It can be passed on to off-springs. Furthermore, microorganisms in the digestive tract have a profound impact on all kinds of health issues, including mental health. These are not news. But it is nice to learn the researches that support such findings.
The second part is not earth-shattering. The advice on lifestyle is common sense, such as eat more omega 3 (found in organic meat and dairy products) and fiber, control stress, meditate, have a good sleep, etc. Supposedly these behaviors promote “good” epigenomes and “good” microorganisms. But there are no specific links revealed by research, and there is no explanation why “good habits” in common sense also happen to good in this framework.
The third part states that genome mutations are not random, but influenced by environment. This is more of a philosophical discussion. Interesting, but not much practical implications.
As I said before, the book failed its promise of “drastic wellbeing.” However, it is still an interesting read. As a health book, it does not try to sell anything. Instead, it is written from a science point of view. More importantly, the book is careful about what has been proven, what are speculations, and what are controversial. It is helpful for our general understanding of epigenetics.
The book has three parts. In the first part, the science of epigenetics and micro-organisms are discussed. The second part outlines lifestyle changes we should make according to such science. The third part pounders the question of whether Darwin’s evolution theory needs to be modified in light of the new knowledge of epigenetics.
The first part is pretty interesting. A lot of evidence was presented, which shows that gene activities are modulated by “epigenome,” which is the substance in the cell but not in the DNA sequences. The epigenome is influenced by environment and lifestyle. It can be passed on to off-springs. Furthermore, microorganisms in the digestive tract have a profound impact on all kinds of health issues, including mental health. These are not news. But it is nice to learn the researches that support such findings.
The second part is not earth-shattering. The advice on lifestyle is common sense, such as eat more omega 3 (found in organic meat and dairy products) and fiber, control stress, meditate, have a good sleep, etc. Supposedly these behaviors promote “good” epigenomes and “good” microorganisms. But there are no specific links revealed by research, and there is no explanation why “good habits” in common sense also happen to good in this framework.
The third part states that genome mutations are not random, but influenced by environment. This is more of a philosophical discussion. Interesting, but not much practical implications.
As I said before, the book failed its promise of “drastic wellbeing.” However, it is still an interesting read. As a health book, it does not try to sell anything. Instead, it is written from a science point of view. More importantly, the book is careful about what has been proven, what are speculations, and what are controversial. It is helpful for our general understanding of epigenetics.
March 14, 2017
I rarely finish a book like this, but Super Genes gave me invaluable insight into living a healthier and more mindful life. I highly recommend it if you're looking to make incremental changes without being overwhelmed.
January 1, 2018
This book is a mix of science and speculation about genetics.
The first part introduces the latest findings around genetics, mostly about the microbiome--all the bacteria that our body hosts and needs, and their genes--and epigenetics, which taught us that the use of our genes is somewhat regulated by a host of factors, from environment to food to our mindset etc.
The second part was probably the best and the most practical, offering a list of simple habits to form in six different aspects of our life (sleep, diet, exercise, meditation...) to improve our health. There was nothing new in there but it was a good sum up of all the latest recommendations regarding health.
The third part seemed frankly out there. Their theory is that we could direct the expression of our genes by way of epigenetics, and take control of the human genetic evolution. It just sounded like science-fiction with a bad eugenic twist. It didn't seem realistic, nor desirable, nor backed up by much science.
The first part introduces the latest findings around genetics, mostly about the microbiome--all the bacteria that our body hosts and needs, and their genes--and epigenetics, which taught us that the use of our genes is somewhat regulated by a host of factors, from environment to food to our mindset etc.
The second part was probably the best and the most practical, offering a list of simple habits to form in six different aspects of our life (sleep, diet, exercise, meditation...) to improve our health. There was nothing new in there but it was a good sum up of all the latest recommendations regarding health.
The third part seemed frankly out there. Their theory is that we could direct the expression of our genes by way of epigenetics, and take control of the human genetic evolution. It just sounded like science-fiction with a bad eugenic twist. It didn't seem realistic, nor desirable, nor backed up by much science.
January 29, 2016
A New Look at Nature, Nurture, Evolution and Your Health
Super Genes tackles some of the biggest questions in life and health. For years there has been an on-going controversy on whether our development is more a product of our genes (nature) or our environment (nurture). This book discusses new genetic research and shows how advances in understanding epigenetics brings the two together. We are a product of our genes, but many factors are involved in their expression. This discussion is the focus of Part One. I thought it was excellent.
Part Two discusses life style adaptations you can make to improve your health. While the suggestions are good, if you follow current nutrition and health advice, this part doesn't present as much new information as Parts One and Three.
Part Three moves from the science of Part One to how consciousness and the mind are involved in the expression of genetic characteristics. This part contains a very interesting discussion of evolution, relating to the specificity of mutations and how they change genes to bring about new characteristics. It moves away from the traditional Darwinian theory of random mutation. I thought this discussion was excellent.
I highly recommend this book if you are interested in health and new research relating to how our health is affected by the life style choices we make.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
Super Genes tackles some of the biggest questions in life and health. For years there has been an on-going controversy on whether our development is more a product of our genes (nature) or our environment (nurture). This book discusses new genetic research and shows how advances in understanding epigenetics brings the two together. We are a product of our genes, but many factors are involved in their expression. This discussion is the focus of Part One. I thought it was excellent.
Part Two discusses life style adaptations you can make to improve your health. While the suggestions are good, if you follow current nutrition and health advice, this part doesn't present as much new information as Parts One and Three.
Part Three moves from the science of Part One to how consciousness and the mind are involved in the expression of genetic characteristics. This part contains a very interesting discussion of evolution, relating to the specificity of mutations and how they change genes to bring about new characteristics. It moves away from the traditional Darwinian theory of random mutation. I thought this discussion was excellent.
I highly recommend this book if you are interested in health and new research relating to how our health is affected by the life style choices we make.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
January 1, 2016
I'd like to thank the author for a copy of the book and the chance to review it through the GoodReads First Reads program.
Being a nerdy kinda girl, I really like these types of books. I'm not in the medical field, so I read this purely for my own curiosity. I found it to be informative and interesting. It was easy to read and didn't get bogged down with overly-technical dialogue. While you don't need a M.D. or a P.h.D. to read/understand this book, you do need at least some knowledge of science. Bio 101 and Anatomy/physiology 101 would suffice.
The title 'Unlock the Astonishing Power of Your DNA for Optimum Health and Well-Being' made it sound like you could turn yourself into a real X-Men simply by reading this book and willing it into being. If your expecting some new information on how to change yourself into a super human, you looking in the wrong place. Most of the stuff in this book isn't a 'new' theory. It's just genetics explained really well. Not everyone has access to this much info, and the authors are sharing it in 'common language' for the everyday person to read.
Being a nerdy kinda girl, I really like these types of books. I'm not in the medical field, so I read this purely for my own curiosity. I found it to be informative and interesting. It was easy to read and didn't get bogged down with overly-technical dialogue. While you don't need a M.D. or a P.h.D. to read/understand this book, you do need at least some knowledge of science. Bio 101 and Anatomy/physiology 101 would suffice.
The title 'Unlock the Astonishing Power of Your DNA for Optimum Health and Well-Being' made it sound like you could turn yourself into a real X-Men simply by reading this book and willing it into being. If your expecting some new information on how to change yourself into a super human, you looking in the wrong place. Most of the stuff in this book isn't a 'new' theory. It's just genetics explained really well. Not everyone has access to this much info, and the authors are sharing it in 'common language' for the everyday person to read.
December 19, 2016
1.5 stars. When I read the synopsis about this book I was very interested. The whole idea is great, but the execution was not for me. The book is divided into three parts, and I only read through about 1/2 of the the first part because I was tired of hearing about evolution. It seems the authors were trying to see how many times the word evolution could be used on one page. Now the second part of the book was the best part. It got down to the nitty gritty of what we can actually do to change our lives/ genes for the better. Then the third part went dull again and I skimmed a lot of it. I had never read anything by these authors before and I don't plan on doing so again.
December 23, 2016
Un libro que inicia explicando cómo uno puede transformarse, luego vienen unos test para uno poder tener claridad de cómo se encuentra y luego el libro está dividido en:
- Alimentación
- Estrés
- Ejercicio
- Meditación
- Sueño
- Emociones
En cada uno de estos espacios te decisiones fáciles, difíciles y experimentales todo con el fin de restaurar tu microbioma.
Interesante ver el soporte científico del debate de que podemos cambiar y buscar tener una muy buena salud y que somos responsables de las generaciones a nacer.
El libro le puse un tres porque me fue cansando. Quería terminarlo.
- Alimentación
- Estrés
- Ejercicio
- Meditación
- Sueño
- Emociones
En cada uno de estos espacios te decisiones fáciles, difíciles y experimentales todo con el fin de restaurar tu microbioma.
Interesante ver el soporte científico del debate de que podemos cambiar y buscar tener una muy buena salud y que somos responsables de las generaciones a nacer.
El libro le puse un tres porque me fue cansando. Quería terminarlo.
May 6, 2017
كتاب جيد يحتوي على توجيهات جيدة لأسلوب حياة أنسب بإتباع بعض الممارسات الصحية والتي لا اتفق معها كلها لكن معضمها مفيد طبياً، لمسة ديباك شوبرا واضحة في توجيهاته بإتباع بعض الأساليب الهندية القديمة للوصول الى انسحام اكثر مع الروح والجسد مثلما توضح اكثر من مناسبة في فصول كتابه، الكتاب في فصله الثاني مان يدعوا القارئ لإتباع خطوات رتيبة للوصول الى توازن جسدي وذهني مع جسمه، شخصياً رأيته ممل في بعض الفصول، والمعلومات التي يدعوا لها تفتقر الى الاثبات العلمي والطبي في بعض الأحيان ولكنها تظل اطروحات من الممكن اثباتها مستقبلا بأبحاث أدق. قد يناسب هذا الكتاب بعض القراء ولكنه لا يناسبني
June 21, 2016
topics too wide
August 10, 2016
Mind blowing info!!
August 28, 2023
Super Genes
Unlock the Astonishing Power of Your DNA for Optimum Health and Well-Being
By Deepak Chopra, M.D. & Rudolph E. Tanzi, PhD
Summary:
A self-help book disguised as a sciency book.
You would never know that this book was about how to build better habits by the title alone, but that’s its main theme. The authors first establish that everyone’s given the same genes and these genes can either by expressed or not expressed depending on the individual. They then make the point that our genes are heavily controlled by how we think, act, and feel everyday. For instance, some genes that govern a geriatric disease 30 years down the road might turn on in relation to chronic stress, and some genes that govern atherosclerotic build up that leads to heart disease might turn off in relation to a healthy diet. Who’s to know exactly, but what the field of research does know is that one’s epigenome is a thing and it is responsive to our conscious selves.
The authors prescribe the most sensible approach to changing one’s health and lifestyle that I’ve read from a self-help book. It’s akin to James Clear’s “Atomic Habits” where small changes in one’s life can add up to monumental change after X time passes. They frame one’s changes as a pyramid, choosing 1 habit to change each week from among 5 core categories: eating habits, fitness, stress management, sleep, and meditation. One should choose changes that are really easy to achieve first and foremost. Once a foundation of easy changes have been laid for one’s pyramid, then changes that looked hard early on may become easier to choose over time.
The Good:
o Authors take into account many perspectives, both religious and evolutionary, and vouch for a semblance of both in one’s life.
o Although not specifically mentioned, “the Alexander Technique” would be a perfect match to one’s meditative practices representing the key focus of one’s total healthful lifestyle, as the authors assert.
The Meh:
o Doesn’t mention non-exercise activity time (NEAT) as making up part of one’s total physical fitness.
o Doesn’t mention the benefits of prayer, though that may have been assumed to be included in the meditative section.
o Overly focuses on OJ and highly processed protein oriented vegan food when promoting a vegetarian or vegan diet.
o Gets kind of weird toward the end, where the authors liken humans to being part of the Earth itself, that we’re all part of each other too when it comes to our cells, etc. Not sure the term here but it’ll be a weird one.
Conclusion:
I really enjoyed this book even though it wasn’t what I expected. I’m well read on Habit books so I was pleasantly surprised to read how and why I should take better care of my cells, and tangible ways I can go about it.
4.5 ⭐️
Unlock the Astonishing Power of Your DNA for Optimum Health and Well-Being
By Deepak Chopra, M.D. & Rudolph E. Tanzi, PhD
Summary:
A self-help book disguised as a sciency book.
You would never know that this book was about how to build better habits by the title alone, but that’s its main theme. The authors first establish that everyone’s given the same genes and these genes can either by expressed or not expressed depending on the individual. They then make the point that our genes are heavily controlled by how we think, act, and feel everyday. For instance, some genes that govern a geriatric disease 30 years down the road might turn on in relation to chronic stress, and some genes that govern atherosclerotic build up that leads to heart disease might turn off in relation to a healthy diet. Who’s to know exactly, but what the field of research does know is that one’s epigenome is a thing and it is responsive to our conscious selves.
The authors prescribe the most sensible approach to changing one’s health and lifestyle that I’ve read from a self-help book. It’s akin to James Clear’s “Atomic Habits” where small changes in one’s life can add up to monumental change after X time passes. They frame one’s changes as a pyramid, choosing 1 habit to change each week from among 5 core categories: eating habits, fitness, stress management, sleep, and meditation. One should choose changes that are really easy to achieve first and foremost. Once a foundation of easy changes have been laid for one’s pyramid, then changes that looked hard early on may become easier to choose over time.
The Good:
o Authors take into account many perspectives, both religious and evolutionary, and vouch for a semblance of both in one’s life.
o Although not specifically mentioned, “the Alexander Technique” would be a perfect match to one’s meditative practices representing the key focus of one’s total healthful lifestyle, as the authors assert.
The Meh:
o Doesn’t mention non-exercise activity time (NEAT) as making up part of one’s total physical fitness.
o Doesn’t mention the benefits of prayer, though that may have been assumed to be included in the meditative section.
o Overly focuses on OJ and highly processed protein oriented vegan food when promoting a vegetarian or vegan diet.
o Gets kind of weird toward the end, where the authors liken humans to being part of the Earth itself, that we’re all part of each other too when it comes to our cells, etc. Not sure the term here but it’ll be a weird one.
Conclusion:
I really enjoyed this book even though it wasn’t what I expected. I’m well read on Habit books so I was pleasantly surprised to read how and why I should take better care of my cells, and tangible ways I can go about it.
4.5 ⭐️
March 27, 2020
Super Genes is an interesting book in which Chopra brings a complex and fascinating subject into better understanding for us. He explains how the new field of epigenetics and people can modify our DNA in a meaningful way. He explains how the environment (internal and external) and health influence our genetics. He postulates how the genes within us may be altered into our lifestyle through dietary choices, fitness regimens and stress coping mechanisms. It is through nature and nurture that a significant impact on our genetic behavior will occur.
This book is broken down into 3 parts. The first part, “Science of Transformation” introduces the science of DNA and genetics. Evidence shows that gene activities are modulated by “epigenomes”-the substance in the cell but not the DNA sequence. It is influence by environment and lifestyle. It can be passed on to offspring. The microbiome in the digestive tract has a huge impact on health issues. Part 2 titled, “Lifestyle Choices for Radical Well-being” includes chapters on diet, stress, exercise, meditation, sleep and emotions. It describes ways to change your life either by a few changes, moderate or major changes of lifestyle. Part 3, titles “Guiding Your Own Evolution” explains the steps towards well-being and information on cells. You can learn about how to reduce inflammation and other illnesses. This section states that genome mutations are not random but influenced greatly by environment.
I found this to be a very interesting book about nature, nurture, genetics and our health and how they interact. It gives a good understanding of how new genetic research and advances in understanding epigenetics brings the two together. You will like this book if you are interested in health and new genetic research and how our health is affected by the lifestyle choices we make.
This book is broken down into 3 parts. The first part, “Science of Transformation” introduces the science of DNA and genetics. Evidence shows that gene activities are modulated by “epigenomes”-the substance in the cell but not the DNA sequence. It is influence by environment and lifestyle. It can be passed on to offspring. The microbiome in the digestive tract has a huge impact on health issues. Part 2 titled, “Lifestyle Choices for Radical Well-being” includes chapters on diet, stress, exercise, meditation, sleep and emotions. It describes ways to change your life either by a few changes, moderate or major changes of lifestyle. Part 3, titles “Guiding Your Own Evolution” explains the steps towards well-being and information on cells. You can learn about how to reduce inflammation and other illnesses. This section states that genome mutations are not random but influenced greatly by environment.
I found this to be a very interesting book about nature, nurture, genetics and our health and how they interact. It gives a good understanding of how new genetic research and advances in understanding epigenetics brings the two together. You will like this book if you are interested in health and new genetic research and how our health is affected by the lifestyle choices we make.
January 10, 2021
Ce que j'avais ressenti en lisant du chopra c'est qu'il écrivait de la médecine romancée, une médecine spirituelle sur mesure imprégnée de traditions indiennes de vedas et d'ayurveda essayant de l'englober sur tout un chacun ..
Du développement personnel a l'allure scientifique mais qui reste néanmoins un développement personnel.
Il pose des centaines de questions et en contournant a chaque fois une réponse claire précise et approuvée en bredouillant des dizaines de page puis a la fin on a ni la réponse ni la compréhension ni la question.
Détourner la réponse en écrivant des dizaines de pages invraisemblables en promouvant le deepak center ça et la entre les lignes n'est pas une science. Elle l'est encore mois puisqu'elle ne peut guérir le panel de maladies mondiales qu'on a.. Les maladies de tout les tissus confondus y compris les mentales. En montrant a chaque fois que la médecine actuelle est rudimentaire traditionnelle voire inefficace devant les avancées spirituelles anciennes.
Je ne pense pas vouloir lire du chopra encore
Du développement personnel a l'allure scientifique mais qui reste néanmoins un développement personnel.
Il pose des centaines de questions et en contournant a chaque fois une réponse claire précise et approuvée en bredouillant des dizaines de page puis a la fin on a ni la réponse ni la compréhension ni la question.
Détourner la réponse en écrivant des dizaines de pages invraisemblables en promouvant le deepak center ça et la entre les lignes n'est pas une science. Elle l'est encore mois puisqu'elle ne peut guérir le panel de maladies mondiales qu'on a.. Les maladies de tout les tissus confondus y compris les mentales. En montrant a chaque fois que la médecine actuelle est rudimentaire traditionnelle voire inefficace devant les avancées spirituelles anciennes.
Je ne pense pas vouloir lire du chopra encore
June 8, 2018
Basically, this is a self-help book with a lot of information about genetics. As usual, Deepak Chopra comes from a place of positivty with the overarching message that your fate, specifically the fate of your health, is not predetermined by your genes. He and his coauthor use the latest in scientific research to demonstrate that lifestyle changes can essentially turn on and off the genes that can lead to things like cancer and dementia. It's a very well reasoned and practical guide to healthier living. It also ends with a more abstract, but still well-written, argument that living a healthy lifestyle won't just benefit you, but your family, the human race, and the planet. Gotta give to Deepak, he's going for nothing short than the betterment of all mankind.
I love this sort of positive approach to well-being, and I was looking for a nice push toward healthier living, so I enjoyed this book. But if you aren't interested in that...
I love this sort of positive approach to well-being, and I was looking for a nice push toward healthier living, so I enjoyed this book. But if you aren't interested in that...
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