Super Genes    by Deepak Chopra & Rudolph E. Tanzi Order:  USA  Can Harmony, 2015 (2015) Hardcover, CD, e-Book      Reviewed by Hilary Williamson Here's a very encouraging read for anyone worried about aspects of their genetic heritage - Super Genes: Unlock the Astonishing Power of Your DNA for Optimum Health and Well-Being by Deepak Chopra, M.D. and Rudolph E. Tanzi, Ph.D., also co-authors of Super Brain. The authors tell us that, rather than being immutable, our 'genes are fluid, dynamic, and responsive' to our thoughts and actions. A switching mechanism in every strand of DNA allows its effects to be modified 'the way a dimmer switch turns the lights up and down.' Also, we co-evolved with trillions of gut microbes whose genes also affect us in very many ways. They call this trio the super genome and address its components in the book, along with advice on lifestyle changes that might activate 'an enormous amount of untapped potential.' The book is organized into three parts - The Science of Transformation (information on the genetics revolution); Lifestyle Choices for Radical Well-Being (a path for change organized into menus of Easy, Harder and Experimental lifestyle choices relating to Diet, Stress, Exercise, Meditation, Sleep and Emotions); and Guiding Your Own Evolution (by making it mindful). We learn about exciting new research on the epigenome, 'the sheath of proteins and chemicals that cushion and modify each strand of DNA', which 'allows for genes to react to experience.' And the authors tell us that it's up to us to master the controls, and speculate that the resulting adaptations might be an evolutionary driving force on their own - 'Adapt First, Mutate Later'. Heady stuff, but I found the section - and the possibilities - on the gut microbiome just as engrossing. We're warned that 'Reducing the diversity of the gut's ecology could be steadily ruining our health' and research is discussed that shows strong relationships between gut contents and illnesses such as Crohn's disease and C. difficile, as well as obesity. 'Your microbiome is, in essence, your second genome.' Though many of the authors' conclusions might be controversial, it is clear that new territory is being explored and very exciting possibilities investigated in the research areas discussed in the book, which I highly recommend to you. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews