DNA Dimensions
Today we're going into the deep. I want to get super nerdy and dive into the benefits of cleansing on your DNA. This is thrilling territory.
We know DNA instructs our cells on how to replicate and perform their functions. It's the blueprint of life. But let's break DNA down into more specifics.
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a double-helix weave of nitrogen molecules bonded by hydrogen, on a backbone of sugar-phosphate rails. (see image above)
If you've ever studied DNA—even casually—you might know these nitrogen molecules as A (adenine), T (thymine), C (cytosine), and G (guanine). These molecules pair up along the double helix, and their unique sequences form what we call genes. Genes are the building instructions for all organic life.
For instance, a small section of a gene might look like this: 5'-ATGCTACG-3' and direct the protein assembly for brown eyes. Meanwhile, a sequence like 3'-TACGATGC-5' might encode for green eyes.
These examples are hypothetical, of course. The actual OCA2 gene, which influences eye color, contains about 345,000 base pairs—far too long to include here. The sequence also varies due to genetic differences and mutations. My intention is to demystify DNA, breaking it into its components so we can understand our the mechanisms and miracles of our biological system.
Humans have approximately 20,000–25,000 genes, with each gene containing anywhere from a few hundred to over 2 million nitrogenous base pairs (ATGC). These billions of nucleotides are packed into 23 pairs of chromosomes within the nucleus of every cell in your body—about 37.2 trillion cells in total. When we calculate the total number of genes in the body, the result is 7.4e+22—a number so stunningly vast it's impossible to comprehend. This is the exquisite, chemical, essential building blocks of your being.
Even more stupefyingly wonderful is that DNA isn't merely a protein-creation process.
Genes also have what's known as expression. This term describes whether a gene is active or inactive and also refers to its electrical field. Genes are surrounded by morphogenetic fields—electromagnetic broadcasts that guide the form of our beings. Genes tell the cellular ribosomes to create protein, but they don't instruct the protein what shape to take. This is the domain of the gene's electrical field. This is what we might call, the “intelligence” of the gene
Even from a scientific perspective, this is a wild, extraordinary, gorgeous, and functional reality. And it's worth grasping at even the most beginner level as it informs how we care for ourselves.
Cells are designed to thrive, adapt, and renew, but they face constant challenges: environmental toxins, oxidative stress, poor nutrition, and emotional strain. These stressors can damage DNA, slowing cellular repair and disrupting vital functions.
If left unchecked, this damage accumulates, leading to dysfunction, aging, and disease—not to mention disruptions in the morphogenetic field. Fortunately, the body has mechanisms to repair DNA, using enzymes that recognize and mend breaks or mismatches in the genetic code. But these mechanisms require a clean, well-nourished environment to function optimally.
One of the most accessible and effective therapies is food cleansing. Cleansing creates space for the body to naturally detoxify and repair. Expertly designed cleanses also flood the body with gene-repairing foods, helping the system remember its inherent integrity.
Some examples of powerful DNA repairing foods include:
Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries): Packed with anthocyanins and vitamin C, they combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
Dark Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard): High in lutein, zeaxanthin, and folate, which are essential for DNA synthesis and repair.
Green Tea: Contains catechins like EGCG, which protect against DNA strand breaks and enhance cellular detoxification.
Pumpkin Seeds: High in zinc, which stabilizes DNA strands and supports immune function.
Brazil Nuts: One of the richest sources of selenium, which reduces oxidative stress and protects DNA from damage.
Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Grapefruit): Abundant in vitamin C, which neutralizes free radicals and supports collagen formation for cellular structure.
Nuts and Seeds (Almonds, Sunflower Seeds): Rich in vitamin E, which protects lipid membranes and DNA from oxidative stress.
And so much more.
In fact, all organically grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers support DNA repair and protection in some way. A comprehensive list would be endless.
Here at Team Harmanjot, food as medicine is one of our favorite areas of study and practice. We love that healing can be tasty, exquisite, and artful—and still incredibly effective and science-based.
With over the past 15 years experience building cleanses for Erewhon, Cafe Gratitude, M Cafe, all of Harmanjot’s cleanses are designed with these principles in mind. There's always a reason to defer something that takes you slightly out of your comfort zone. But we hope that at some time, you find a moment to cleanse with Harmanjot and journey into multidimensional health.