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Abstract

Introduction: Epigenetics comprehends hereditary and reversible inheritance, without altering the sequence of nitrogenous bases in Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA). This occurs due to the interaction between humans and the environment, so that food corresponds to one of the main environmental factors in this area. Objective: to collect information about DNA methylation associated with the development of obesity, based on different types of diet, proposing interventions to improve the living conditions of affected patients. Methods: Integrative Review, with a search carried out in the PubMed database. The search terms “DNA Methylation”, “Obesity”, “Epigenetic and Diet” and “Food and Nutrition” were used and the filters were: free full text dated from 2020 to 2024, in English, Portuguese and Spanish, and the types study (books and documents, clinical study, clinical trial, randomized controlled trial and observational study). Results: Based on the previously stipulated inclusion criteria, 78 articles were identified, of which 12 were included in the review. Discussion and Conclusion: The studies revealed that different diets are related to the methylation of genes involved in the development of obesity, and that breastfeeding could induce epigenetic effects on genes related to obesity in one-year-old children, but a prenatal diet didn’t show evidence of methylation. It is essential to adopt balanced and appropriate diets for each individual, whether for preventive or therapeutic purposes.