The Genetic Scapegoat

Genes frequently bear the blame for various health issues and conditions. I have often heard statements like, "I have bad genes," particularly when problems arise. This belief can further extend to fatalistic views such as, "My mother had breast cancer, so I'm likely to as well," or even more deterministic predictions regarding diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), often perpetuated by family history.

At 13, I was told that I was destined for MS due to my family background, which left a lasting negative impact on my outlook and sense of control over my life. Despite the troubling statistics — the hereditary nature of MS, the higher prevalence among women, and environmental influences like childhood exposure to cold climates — I was consumed with fear and anxiety, convinced of my inevitable fate.

Fear can lead individuals down two paths: 1. It can inspire positive change. 2. It can trap them in a victim mentality.

Unfortunately, many succumb to the latter. The narrative of "bad genes" has become a convenient excuse for evading personal responsibility regarding health.

Dr. Joe Dispenza suggests that the majority of individuals seeking healthcare do so for stress-related issues, with only a small percentage born with actual genetic disorders. This indicates that our lifestyle choices impact how our genes express themselves, often detrimentally.

Our choices matter every single day.

Understanding Our Biological Makeup

The human body comprises trillions of cells containing DNA, with genes being segments of that DNA. However, astonishingly, our bodies harbor ten times more bacterial cells than human cells, constituting a diverse microbiome with significantly more genes than human genes.

Research estimates around 1,000 bacterial species in the gut, each with approximately 2,000 genes, leading to a staggering total of about 2 million bacterial genes compared to the 20,000 human genes.

This information is crucial for two reasons: 1. It suggests we may be more microbe than human, prompting a more objective perspective on our health. 2. Increasing research highlights the genuine mind-gut connection, where our gut microbiome influences our behavior, thereby reinforcing the role of epigenetics.

This understanding is empowering. I long ago stopped believing MS was my fate. Nevertheless, I remained stuck in a victim mindset for years, leading to various emotional and physical challenges. This entrapment could easily have exacerbated my fears, linking back to the very condition I sought to escape.

So, how do we escape victimhood and initiate positive transformations that can impact our health?

Genes Remain Constant, But Expression Changes

Our bodies function as protein factories, with genes in nearly every cell capable of producing proteins. However, for a gene to synthesize a protein, it requires regulation or signaling, which is where epigenetics comes into play. Our behaviors and environments influence gene activity, determining their expression.

Gene expression refers to the frequency and timing of protein production from our genes. While genetic alterations can change which proteins are produced, epigenetic modifications can turn genes on or off.

Epigenetics studies how behaviors and environmental factors can create changes that affect gene functioning.

—CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention)

The external environment plays a crucial role in instructing and selecting gene activity. A poor state of being can downregulate gene expression, resulting in suboptimal protein production.

This means we have the power to influence our genetic destiny by shifting our mental and physical states.

The Connection Between Gut and Brain

The brain and gut are interconnected through a vast network of neurons and a constant flow of chemicals and hormones that relay information about hunger, stress, and the presence of harmful microbes. This communication system, known as the brain-gut axis, continually updates us on the state of both organs.

For example, the anxiety from financial worries can create that sinking feeling in our stomachs, illustrating the brain-gut connection. Recent studies indicate that not only does the brain influence gut health, but the gut can also impact brain health.

The gut's neuron network rivals that of the spinal cord, suggesting that this "second brain" plays a role in processing signals from the trillions of microbes residing within it.

Historically, it was believed that mental health issues like anxiety and depression contributed to gastrointestinal disorders. However, emerging evidence suggests the opposite: disturbances in the gut can trigger mood changes.

A shift in gut microbiota composition can significantly influence: - Mood - Pain tolerance - Cognitive performance - Behavior - Mental health

This implies that a poor diet may lead to increased negative emotions over time.

So, how can we leverage this knowledge to enhance our well-being?

1. Nutrition
2. Movement

When I faced significant challenges in my life, these were the first two areas I focused on, as they were the most straightforward to address. I recognized that improving my emotional and mental health would take time, so I sought immediate actions to enhance my well-being.

Nutrition

We are all unique in our biological makeup. Consequently, what works for one person may not work for another. Despite the abundance of diet and superfood information available, little emphasis is placed on bio-individuality, which involves understanding our unique microbiota.

An effective way to discover what suits us is through an elimination diet, which helps pinpoint foods that may be causing adverse reactions. The elimination process involves cutting out common allergens for at least three weeks to allow the body to reset.

After this period, reintroduce one food group weekly while monitoring your body's reactions. This process may seem daunting, but it is temporary, and your body will ultimately benefit.

Identifying nourishing versus harmful foods can lead to improved energy, skin, digestion, and overall quality of life. Although this process may span several months, its long-term benefits are invaluable.

Here are seven tips for success: 1. Focus on inclusion, not elimination – Shift your mindset from what you can't eat to what you can. 2. Meal prep – Prepare meals in advance to avoid unhealthy snacking. 3. Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water helps maintain satiety. 4. Establish a routine – Regular meal times help your body adjust. 5. Eat sufficient food – Ensure you consume enough calories and nutrients. 6. Prioritize sleep – Adequate rest aids in recovery. 7. Look beyond food – Consider the overall health benefits of this journey.

The initial days of this process can be challenging, as withdrawal symptoms from previously consumed foods may arise. My own experience with caffeine withdrawal showcased how deeply our bodies can be affected by dietary changes.

If you experience discomfort during this transition, remain calm. Such symptoms should improve as your body adjusts. Should they persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is advisable.

Following the elimination phase, many chronic issues should improve as the immune system is relieved, allowing for healing.

A quicker, albeit pricier, approach to identifying food sensitivities is through Viome Intelligence tests, which also suggest personalized superfoods. My experience with their comprehensive health assessment yielded useful insights and improvements in my well-being.

Movement

Regular physical activity is indispensable. The benefits of exercise are extensive, including: - Enhanced mood - Improved digestion - Increased energy - Better sleep quality - A more active sex life - Weight management - Disease prevention

Finding an enjoyable form of exercise is crucial. If you haven't yet discovered a sport or activity you love, consider reading my previous article, “How To Find a Workout That Will Work for You.”

Knowledge Empowers Change

Understanding our bodies fosters healthier and happier lives. Despite facing trauma since being told about my MS fate, I have undertaken the necessary work to learn, listen, and evolve. Thirty years later, I remain free of MS.

Our genes do not dictate our destinies; we do. Our everyday choices have profound implications on our health and happiness.

I believe our autonomic nervous system is a powerful healer, capable of extraordinary self-repair. Thus, I continue to learn about my mind and body, striving to be a healthier, happier version of myself as I navigate life's journey.

Stay tuned for my next article on how “Our Emotions Affect Our Gene Expression.”

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[1]: “Current understanding of the human microbiome” in National Library of Medicine — National Center for Biotechnology Information [2]: Genes and Chromosomes by Quasar S. Padiath, MBBS, PhD, University of Pittsburgh [3]: Richard Losick, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Professor, the Maria Moors Cabot Professor of Biology, and a Harvard College Professor. [4]: Gut Feelings–the “Second Brain” in Our Gastrointestinal Systems [Excerpt] by Justin Sonnenburg & Erica Sonnenburg [5]: The Brain-Gut Connection by Dr. Atsushi Kamiya [6]: Borre, Y. et al. (2014). Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. PubMed.gov. [7]: Foster, J. et al. (2016). International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology. PubMed Central.