Perhaps due to the growing popularity and media coverage of DNA testing, health professionals are beginning to notice a more frequent response from clients that receive a diagnosis of a common health challenge such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. The retort, “Oh, that’s genetic. It runs in my family,” is frequently accompanied by a sense of defeat based on an outdated concept that nothing can be done about the body and genetic makeup we are born with.

While it is true that we cannot change our genes and family history, it is now known that we can overcome our genetic predisposition with the right supplements, lifestyle habits and environment. Research such as that being conducted by The Resilience Project (ResilienceProject.com) aims to discover why some people are more able than others to override genetic markers and overcome challenges to their health, escaping diseases. Scientists anticipate that finding and studying resilient individuals could pave the way to new insights about health, better disease prevention strategies and new treatments.

Research into the understanding of the cell’s information processing systems by Dr. Bruce Lipton, Ph.D., a stem cell biologist and bestselling author of The Biology of Belief, led to the science of epigenetics and his discovery that we are not victims of our genetics, but rather the masters. Lipton frequently reminds his audience in his Gaia.com series, “Inner Evolution: Empowered Genetics” that genes are not self-actualizing, meaning that they aren’t capable of controlling their own activity. In this groundbreaking series, he explains that we are not our genes and that our genetic expression is directly determined by our environment and more importantly, our perception of that environment.

Locally, Michelle Trias, Ph.D., a naturopathic consultant and owner of My Naturo Wellness, in Bonita Springs, offers an example. “I may have a history of diabetes in my family on both my mother and father’s side. My genes ‘may’ predispose me to improper sugar handling, but that is not the end of it. The PEMT [phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase] gene is an overlooked player in fat and glucose metabolism. Specific genetic variants correlate with obesity and diabetes, but they also have a positive side with regard to metabolic health. PEMT produces phosphatidylcholine and choline, which are essential for fat metabolism. High PEMT activity protects the liver, but plays a role in obesity and insulin resistance,” says the graduate of New Eden School of Natural Health & Herbal Studies, in South Bend, Indiana.

“Understanding your genes can unlock the necessary information for you to make decisions that improve your health. Your genes do not have to be the end of your story. You get to write it by making positive choices and working with your body to maximize your health. Armed with information through DNA testing, we can understand the key expression of our genetic traits and the best way via lifestyle and diet that disease can be avoided,” advises Trias, who uses DNA testing to help her clients.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 239-579-3846 or visit MyNaturoWellness.com.