Did you know that a family history of conditions such as cancer or dementia doesn’t automatically dictate your health future? The concept that our genes determine our health is outdated, thanks to advancements in the field of epigenetics. This promising area of study demonstrates how our behaviors and environment can profoundly impact gene activity.
I was just looking at a candy dish that was my maternal grandmother’s. A grandmother I never knew because she died of breast cancer in her early forties. In the 1950s science didn’t even know about the BRAC 1 and 2 genes. But just because my grandmother had this type of cancer does not mean I will. Genes can turn on and off based on your lifestyle.
That’s right, your everyday choices have a crucial impact on gene expression. Adopting and maintaining healthy habits can activate or suppress your genes. Understanding this can help prevent diseases like dementia and cancer and even decelerate the aging process.
Power of Lifestyle Choices
Your diet, how much you move, and your exposure to environmental toxins play significant roles in determining if certain genes are activated or silenced. Making deliberate, health-conscious decisions can dramatically affect your genetic health and stave off the onset of disease-related genes.
By weaving a knowledge of genetics into your everyday health routines, you wield considerable influence over your health outcomes. Empower yourself by making informed lifestyle choices that can alter your genetic activity. It’s about more than just extending your lifespan—it’s about enhancing the quality of life as you age.
By doing a simple 23 and Me test, I discovered what diseases I was genetically predisposed to. It cost $100, and I only needed a cheek swab. Guess what, I do not carry the BRACA 1 or 2 breast cancer gene. However, I carry one APOe4 gene, which is the Alzheimer’s gene. So, I need to do everything possible to not turn on this gene.
Dementia and other debilitating conditions affect millions and are influenced by a blend of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors. Understanding this can empower us to take preventive steps towards maintaining health as we age. In my book, 12 Ways to Age Gracefully, I delve into how gene expression and lifestyle choices are pivotal in the battle against cognitive decline and chronic diseases. I’ve devoted a chapter to brain health and included a list of risk factors for dementia. Here is a quote from that chapter:
“If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling) with Alzheimer’s, you are also more likely to develop the disease. Diseases that run in families have more than just hereditary factors; they also share environmental and lifestyle upbringings and habits. But individuals can modify their unhealthy living habits and change their environment. Today’s choices can preserve a healthy future.”
Listed below are a few things we can do to enhance a positive gene expression.
Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet
What we eat plays a crucial role in influencing our genes, particularly those linked to cognitive function. Diets rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and low in processed sugars can help reduce inflammation and combat the effects of harmful toxins.
Increase Physical Activity
Regular physical exercise isn’t just good for the heart; it’s also essential for brain health. Physical activity can enhance gene expression linked to better memory and cognition by improving blood flow to the brain and reducing inflammation. Activities such as brisk walking, cycling, or Christian yoga can be beneficial in keeping your mind sharp and potentially reducing the risk of cognitive disorders.
Minimize Exposure to Environmental Toxins
Toxins from our environment can adversely affect how our genes function. Reducing exposure to pollutants and harmful chemicals by buying organic foods, using natural cleaning products, and avoiding tobacco smoke can significantly decrease the likelihood of activating genes related to dementia. By consciously altering our surroundings, we can influence our genetic health and reduce our risk of cognitive decline.
Genetic Destiny is Flexible
Your genes are not static; they respond to your life’s choices. This dynamic nature means that positive changes in your lifestyle can lead to substantial improvements in your health, showing that your genetic destiny is not immutable.
In 12 Ways to Age Gracefully, I highlight that while our genetic makeup is fixed, we can influence how these genes express themselves through our choices. Through smart lifestyle changes, it’s possible to enhance our quality of life and keep our minds agile as we age.
About the Author
Susan Neal, an RN with an MBA and masters in health science, combines her passion for health
and her faith to guide others toward wellness. She is a certified Christian Health & Wellness
Coach. As an acclaimed author, of nine books including the bestseller 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar
and Carbohydrates she inspires others to improve their health. Her 2024 publication, 12 Ways to
Age Gracefully: How to Look and Feel Younger, uplifts the health of the senior Christian
community. Her children’s book, Eat God’s Food, further extends her mission. Visit
SusanUNeal.com for her insights and coaching.