Epigenetics and Brain Health: Inheriting Habits, Not Just Genes

When it comes to brain health, the focus often falls on genetics—whether a parent’s diagnosis of a neurodegenerative disease will impact an individual’s future. Yet, as psychogeriatrician Dr. Juan Melendez points out, “We tend to inherit our parents’ bad habits rather than their diseases.” This perspective highlights the concept of epigenetics, where lifestyle choices and environmental factors play a crucial role in gene expression, shaping brain health in ways that transcend genetic predispositions.

Epigenetics: Beyond Genes

Dr. Melendez explains that while genes like APOE4 can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, they are not the whole story. Epigenetics—literally meaning “above the genes”—refers to how behaviors and environmental factors can either activate or suppress gene expression. “By incorporating healthy lifestyle habits, by stopping smoking, by controlling your amount of alcohol, by sleeping well, you may be putting a layer of chemical modifications over the genes that could repress harmful expressions,” he says.

This understanding empowers individuals to take proactive steps to mitigate genetic risks. Even for those carrying high-risk genes, actions like maintaining a healthy diet, reducing stress, and fostering emotional connections can significantly delay or reduce the impact of neurological disorders.

Motivation and Individual Choice

Despite the potential for lifestyle changes to positively influence brain health, not everyone is motivated to act. Dr. Melendez highlights studies showing that individuals who know their genetic risk often respond in contrasting ways. “People who know their APOE4 status tend to be more motivated to introduce lifestyle changes, while those without the gene may be more relaxed,” he notes. This disparity underscores the complexity of human behavior and the role of motivation in driving change.

Licet Valois, a social worker specializing in dementia prevention, emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches to engagement. “Could a multidisciplinary team be the key to fostering greater engagement in individuals to practice brain health care?” she asks. Valois argues that education must go beyond simply listing risks; it should also highlight the benefits of proactive brain care, offering individuals a sense of control and purpose in their health journey.

Social Influence and Stress Management

The role of social influence cannot be underestimated. Valois observes that individuals are more likely to make lasting changes when supported by peers or family. However, she also cautions that these changes require commitment and effort, which can deter some. “We encounter individuals who come ready to engage in brain health recommendations but realize it takes a lot of compromise,” she explains. Providing ongoing support and celebrating small successes can help individuals sustain their motivation.

Education as the First Step

Both Dr. Melendez and Valois agree that education is foundational to promoting brain health. However, Dr. Melendez cautions against expecting immediate results. “Sometimes people are not ready. What they just need is education, information, and time to think about it,” he says. Providing accessible, clear information allows individuals to make informed decisions when they are ready to act.

Valois adds that the way information is delivered matters as much as the content itself. “It has to do with who’s delivering the message and how it’s being delivered,” she notes. A multidisciplinary approach—incorporating perspectives from medicine, psychology, and social work—can make brain health education more comprehensive and impactful.

Inheriting a Better Future

While genetics may predispose us to certain risks, our choices and environments determine how those risks manifest. Epigenetics offers hope and empowerment, showing that individuals are not bound by their DNA but can actively shape their brain health through their actions.

As Dr. Melendez puts it, “Genes are important, but they are not the whole story.” By educating individuals, fostering supportive communities, and emphasizing the benefits of proactive brain care, we can help people inherit not just their parents’ genes but their healthiest habits, too.

To learn more about how lifestyle habits influence brain health, watch our conversation with Dr. Juan Melendez and Licet Valois in the video above.

By Alicia J. Barber, PhD