5. Amylase Gene Copy Number
Diet has a powerful influence on human evolution, and one striking example is the amylase gene, which helps us digest starch. Populations with historically starch-rich diets—such as agricultural societies—have evolved to carry more copies of this gene, enhancing their ability to break down complex carbohydrates.
As global diets shift and processed foods become more common, the number of amylase gene copies continues to evolve in different populations. This ongoing adaptation demonstrates how our bodies respond to changing nutritional landscapes. ScienceDirect article