Genes & the Inheritance of Memories Across Generations | Dr. Oded Rechavi

In this episode, my guest is Oded Rechavi, Ph.D., professor of neurobiology at Tel Aviv University and expert in how genes are inherited, how experiences shape genes and remarkably, how some memories of experiences can be passed via genes to offspring. We discuss his research challenging long-held tenets of genetic inheritance and the relevance of those findings to understanding key biological and psychological processes including metabolism, stress and trauma. He describes the history of the scientific exploration of the “heritability of acquired traits” and how epigenetics and RNA biology can account for some of the passage of certain experience-based memories. He discusses the importance of model organisms in scientific research and describes his work on how stressors and memories can be passed through small RNA molecules to multiple generations of offspring in ways that meaningfully affect their behavior. Nature vs. nurture is a commonly debated theme; Dr. Rechavi’s work represents a fundamental shift in our understanding of that debate, as well as genetic inheritance, brain function and evolution. For the full show notes, visit hubermanlab.com.

Actionable Insights

1. Optimize Hydration & Electrolytes

Ensure proper hydration and adequate electrolytes (sodium, magnesium, potassium) by dissolving one packet of Element in 16-32 ounces of water first thing in the morning and during physical exercise. This is critical for optimal brain and body function, as even slight dehydration diminishes cognitive and physical performance.

2. Support Gut Microbiota Health

Consume probiotics, such as those found in Athletic Greens, for optimal gut and microbiotic health. Gut microbiota communicate with the brain, immune system, and other biological systems, strongly impacting immediate and long-term health.

3. Meet Foundational Nutrition

Ensure all foundational nutritional needs are met by consuming adaptogens, vitamins, and minerals, like those in Athletic Greens, to support overall health. This helps ensure all biological systems function optimally.

4. Supplement Vitamin D3 & K2

Supplement with Vitamin D3 and K2, as these are important for foundational nutritional needs and overall health. Athletic Greens provides a year’s supply of these vitamins with a purchase.

5. Avoid Overeating for Longevity

Avoid overeating, as it is known to shorten lifespan. While caloric restriction is debated, it is clear that overeating has negative health consequences.

6. Exercise for Generational Health

Engage in regular exercise, as rodent studies suggest it can correct aberrant inheritance issues in offspring that arise from parental overfeeding. This indicates a potential positive impact on future generations’ health.

7. Enhance Memory with Cold

Use acute cold exposure after learning lessons or information, as this practice, historically used in medieval times, can act as a memory-instilling event. This effect is thought to be mediated by the release of adrenaline in the body.

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Sign up for the free Huberman Lab ‘Neural Network Newsletter’ at hubermanlab.com to receive monthly podcast summaries and toolkits. These toolkits cover topics such as sleep, focus, dopamine control, and deliberate cold exposure.

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