Your Genes Aren’t Your Destiny: Take Back Control of Your Health

For years we’ve been told that our health is determined by our genetics — that we’re simply “born with” certain risks or outcomes. But here’s the good news: research shows genetics play only a minor role in our overall health.

That’s right — while our genes may load the gun, our environment (meaning our lifestyle) pulls the trigger. And since we have control over our lifestyle, that means the daily decisions you make can have a powerful impact on your well-being.

The Power of Lifestyle

Studies estimate that up to 95% of our health outcomes are influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. (The exact percentage varies depending on the study, but the message is clear: our choices matter far more than our DNA.)

For example, researchers at Oxford Population Health found that environmental and lifestyle factors explained about 17% of variation in premature death risk, while genetic predisposition explained less than 2% (Oxford Population Health, 2023). Similarly, Harvard Health notes that for many chronic diseases — like heart disease, arthritis, and lung conditions — lifestyle choices outweigh genetic inheritance in determining long-term health outcomes (Harvard Health Publishing, 2024).

That’s empowering — because it means there’s so much within your control. You can make changes today that support your body’s natural ability to heal, balance, and thrive.

The Four Pillars of a Healthy Lifestyle

When we look at health through a holistic lens, there are four main components that work together to support your body and mind:

1. Nutrition – What you eat fuels every cell in your body. Whole, nutrient-rich foods provide the foundation for energy, hormone balance, and mental clarity.

2. Stress Management – Chronic stress can affect everything from your digestion to your sleep and immune system. Learning how to slow down and regulate your nervous system is key.

3. Sleep Habits – Quality sleep is when your body repairs, detoxes, and resets. Without it, even the best diet and exercise plan won’t make you feel your best.

4. Exercise Routine – Movement keeps your body strong, your lymph system active, and your mind clear. But it doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym — walking, riding, or gardening all count.
   

Each of these areas plays a vital role in your health, but here’s the thing: not one of them can make a real difference on its own. You can eat well, but if your stress and sleep are out of balance, you’ll still struggle to feel your best. It’s all connected.

Where to Start

If this feels overwhelming, that’s okay — it’s not about perfection, it’s about awareness and small, consistent steps. The best place to begin is by identifying which area of your lifestyle could use the most attention right now.

Need help figuring that out? Book a discovery call today. Together, we can look at your daily habits, uncover what’s holding you back, and build a realistic plan that fits your life.

Takeaway

Your health story isn’t written in your genes — it’s written in your daily choices. And that’s the most empowering news of all.

References

• Oxford Population Health. “Lifestyle and Environmental Factors Affect Health and Ageing More Than Our Genes.” 2023.

• Harvard Health Publishing. “Do Genes or Lifestyle Determine Your Health?” 2024.