There are many genetic traits that can be passed down from ancestors. Some of these traits are physical, such as eye and hair color. Others are more subtle, such as a predisposition for certain diseases. Knowing which traits you may have inherited can help you make informed decisions about your health. Keep reading to learn more about genetic inheritance.
Eye Diseases
Many eye diseases are passed down through families. If you have a family history of eye diseases, you may be more likely to develop one of these conditions yourself. Some of the most common eye diseases that are passed down through families include:
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
- Cataracts
Each of these diseases can cause vision loss if not treated early. If you have a family history of any of these diseases, it’s essential to see an ophthalmologist. Early detection and treatment are essential for preserving your vision. Consider searching online for an ophthalmologist in Torrance or wherever you’re located to find a licensed physician near you.
Athletic Ability
Athletic ability is a trait that many people value and admire. It can be defined as the ability to perform physical activity or exercise efficiently. This may be in part due to your genes. Your ancestors may have passed down this ability to you. For example, if you have Denisovan ancestry, you may have increased athletic ability.
“Denisovan ancestry?” you might be thinking. What in the world is that? Denisovan ancestry is an ancient lineage that was discovered in 2010. It’s estimated that Denisovans roamed the earth up to 50,000 years ago. They’re believed to be a sister group of the Neanderthals.
So, how does this relate to athletic ability? Interestingly, research suggests that Denisovan ancestry may be linked to increased athletic ability. A study published in 2014 looked at the genetics of Tibetans. The study found that Tibetans who had Denisovan ancestry had developed an adaptation to withstand higher altitudes.
So, what does this mean for you? If you have Denisovan ancestry, it’s possible that you may be more inclined to be an athletic individual. This doesn’t mean that you have to be a professional athlete, but it does suggest that you may have a higher natural ability to be physically active.
Height and Eye Color
Your height and eye color are largely determined by the genes you inherit from your ancestors. Height is affected by a number of genes, including ones that control the growth of bones and muscles. Eye color is determined by the amount and type of pigment in the iris.
The genes that control height and eye color are passed down from your parents to you. However, these genes are not the only factors that affect your height and eye color. Your environment and lifestyle also play a role. For example, if you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly, you will likely be taller than someone who does not. Similarly, if you live in a sunny climate, the sunlight may cause you to have a darker eye color than someone who lives in a cloudy climate.
There is no way to predict exactly how tall you will be or what color your eyes will be. However, you can get a general idea of how your height and eye color might turn out by looking at your ancestors.
Inheriting Genetic Traits
An individual’s genes play an important role in their overall health and well-being. While an individual cannot change their genes, they can take steps to manage their health based on the genetic traits they may have inherited from their ancestors. Some genetic traits may increase the risk of developing certain eye diseases, while others may increase your athletic ability. Still, others determine your height and eye color.
