Milk Quote by Barbara Kingsolver
““Geneticists have confirmed that milk-drinking adults are the exception to the norm, identifying a deviant gene on the second chromo-some that causes lactase persistence. (The gene is SNP C/T13910, if you care.)””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver, 1988
Adult humans normally lose lactase, but a genetic mutation lets some continue to digest milk into adulthood.
In simple terms: Some adults can still drink milk because of a gene.
Key Takeaway
Recognize genetic diversity in nutrition.
Themes
biology
genetics
nutrition
Mood
informative
curious
Type
scientific
educational
When to use this quote
- dietary counseling
- public health policy
- personalized nutrition
- evolutionary studies
Key Concepts
Lactase persistence
SNP C/T13910
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this gene affect cultural dairy consumption?
- What are the implications for lactose intolerance treatments?
A Different Perspective
Genetic variation is just one factor among many influencing diet.
