What Is a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism?
A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism, or SNPs (pronounced “snips”), is a tiny variation in DNA. It occurs when a single building block of DNA—A, T, C or G—changes at one location. These changes are common and help explain why people respond differently to food, stress, or toxins.
Why SNPs Matter in Nutrition
Some SNPs affect how we absorb, process, or use nutrients. For example, a variation might reduce your ability to activate B vitamins, produce antioxidants, or detoxify efficiently. Although these changes are subtle, they can have a significant impact on health over time.
Understanding SNPs is a central part of nutrigenetics, which explores how our genes influence our nutritional needs. By adjusting your diet, you can often work around these variations and better support your body.
How Sourdough Supports Genetic Pathways
At The Sourdough School, we design bread that complements genetic health. Our Proven Bread Subscription is one example. The loaves are made using botanical blend flours and long fermentation. This approach enhances nutrient availability and supports pathways affected by SNPs.
For instance, slow fermentation can increase B vitamin levels and reduce gluten content. These benefits are especially helpful for individuals with SNPs that impact methylation or detoxification. You can read more about these links in our article on How Proven Bread Supports Detox Pathways.
Learning More About Your SNPs
Understanding your SNPs helps personalise your diet and improve your health outcomes. Our consultations and genetic testing help identify these variations and match them with practical food solutions, including specific breads or dietary adjustments.
These concepts are explored in our 3-Day BALM Workshops and retreats, where we combine sourdough baking with advanced nutritional science.
For more on this topic, see nutrigenomics, the gut microbiome, and our glossary of related terms at The Sourdough School.
Nutrigenetics