Everybody knows that our parents’ genetics play a huge role in shaping who we are. But did you know that certain things that come almost exclusively from your mother? Obviously, these traits are often still influenced by your dad’s genes and environmental factors, but your mom might play a larger role than you realize.
Here are some of the most interesting things that you mostly get from mom.
Mitochondrial DNA
Every single cell in your body carries a tiny powerhouse called mitochondria, and the DNA inside those mitochondria? That comes solely from your mother. Unlike nuclear DNA, which is a mix from both parents, mitochondrial DNA is passed down exclusively through the maternal line.
Scientists even use it to trace ancestry back for generations, making it a unique genetic fingerprint that connects you directly to your maternal ancestors.
Intelligence
You might have your dad’s sense of humor, but research suggests that a big part of intelligence is inherited from mom. The reason? The genes linked to intelligence are found on the X chromosome, and since women have two X chromosomes while men have only one, there’s a stronger chance that your brainpower is coming straight from your mother’s genetic makeup.
The Shape of Your Face
Certain facial features are influenced more by maternal genes. While you might inherit a mix of features from both parents, studies show that the shape of the face, particularly the structure of the cheeks, lips, and nose, leans heavily toward the maternal side. If people say you’re the spitting image of your mother, there’s some science behind it.
The Way You Age
Your skin’s ability to stay youthful has a lot to do with genetics, and those genes mostly come from your mom. If she has smooth, wrinkle-resistant skin well into her later years, there’s a good chance you’ll follow the same pattern.
The elasticity, texture, and aging speed of your skin are strongly linked to maternal genetics, which means your mother’s side of the family might hold the secret to how you’ll age.
Your Sleep Patterns
Ever wonder why you’re an early riser or why you struggle with insomnia? Your sleep habits could be inherited from your mother. Research has found that sleep disorders, like insomnia and even how long you stay in deep sleep, are often passed down from the maternal side.
Your Risk for Certain Diseases
Some health conditions are more likely to be passed down through the mother’s side of the family. Mitochondrial diseases, which affect energy production in cells, are only inherited from mom. Additionally, conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers have been linked more closely to maternal genes.
Hair Type and Texture
If you’ve ever wondered why your hair looks so much like your mother’s, there’s a scientific reason behind it. The genes that determine hair thickness, curl pattern, and even how early or late you go gray are more strongly influenced by the maternal side. While your dad’s genes play a role, your mother’s DNA tends to have the final say in how your hair turns out.
Your Ability to Handle Stress
How you react to stressful situations might be something you got from your mom. Research has found that the way a person processes emotions and deals with stress is often inherited from the maternal side. This is largely due to the influence of mitochondrial DNA on the brain and how it regulates neurotransmitters. If your mom is naturally calm or prone to anxiety, don’t be surprised if you experience emotions in a similar way.
The Strength of Your Bones
Bone density and strength are largely inherited, and studies suggest that maternal genetics have a major influence on how your bones develop. If your mother has a history of osteoporosis or brittle bones, it’s something you may need to be mindful of as well.
The Sound of Your Voice
The pitch, tone, and overall sound of your voice are more likely to resemble your mother’s than your father’s. While some voice traits are influenced by both parents, studies show that certain vocal characteristics – like speech patterns and even the way you naturally pronounce words – tend to be inherited from mom.
Your Sense of Smell
Believe it or not, your ability to detect and differentiate certain scents is influenced by maternal genetics. Some studies suggest that sensitivity to smells, particularly related to food and nature, is passed down through the mother’s side.
Your Metabolism
How easily you gain or lose weight is influenced by your genes, and your mother’s genetics play a big role in determining your metabolic rate. Some people naturally burn calories faster, while others have a slower metabolism that makes weight management more challenging.
Your Handedness
While being left- or right-handed is influenced by multiple genetic factors, some research suggests that maternal genetics have a stronger influence on which hand you naturally prefer. If your mom is left-handed, the chances of you being a lefty are higher. It’s not a guarantee, but the maternal side seems to have more sway when it comes to this trait.
Your Pain Tolerance
Ever wonder why some people have a higher threshold for pain than others? Studies suggest that the ability to tolerate pain may be passed down from the maternal side. Since pain perception is linked to neurological pathways influenced by mitochondrial DNA, your mother’s genetic contribution could determine whether you’re more sensitive to pain or able to tough it out in difficult situations.
The Risk of Migraines
Migraines can be hereditary, and they are more commonly passed down through the maternal line. If your mother suffers from frequent migraines, there’s a strong chance you may experience them too. Scientists believe this is due to how mitochondrial DNA affects brain function and blood flow regulation.
Your Personality Traits
While personality is shaped by both genetics and environment, certain traits – such as temperament, emotional responses, and social tendencies – are more strongly influenced by maternal inheritance. Studies suggest that qualities like empathy, nurturing behavior, and even introversion or extroversion have a higher likelihood of being passed down through the mother’s side.