Our bodies, and hence our genes, have interacted with our environment since humankind’s beginning. It is no wonder that molecules in our foods directly interact with our genes, either turning on or off DNA sequences that directly affect the way we feel. With over 2 million new scientific articles published every year, the mechanisms of each of these interactions is well mapped out. One example is the nrf2 gene sequence, which, when stimulated by curcumin (turmeric), sulforophane (broccoli) or alpha lipoic acid (spinach, yams), turns on the Antioxidant Response Element gene sequence present in every cell. The result of this genetic switch turns up the body’s natural ability to detoxify and dampens inflammation, oxidative stress, and cancer.

While we can benefit from these well-researched pathways by using food as medicine, so too can we supercharge these natural health-promoting pathways by taking isolated molecules in the form of supplements. The amount of sulforophane found in just one vitamin, for example, would require your eating 2 cups of broccoli per day. Not just vitamins, these natural molecules can be thought of as potent and broader-in-scope than many pharmaceuticals, hence their adopted term, “nutraceuticals.” Most importantly, these natural medicines have no side effects and thus offer a more sustainable and safer way to treat disease.

Dr. Rogoff has studied functional nutrition for over 15 years and has expertise in hundreds of natural molecules, understanding the strength of the science behind each and so too where the claims may prove weak or false. Whether you are new to vitamins or you already take a handful every morning but are unsure if they are the right ones for you, Dr. Rogoff can help augment your body’s natural healing abilities as well as prioritize which choices are best for your unique genetics, health-state, and goals. Additionally, with a solid footing in Western Medicine, he will also inform you of when natural therapies may be inferior to pharmaceuticals and empower you with the counseling and knowledge you need to choose for yourself.