Unlock Your Inner Superpowers (Hint: They’re in Your DNA).

Test, Don’t Guess!

I’m writing with a heart full of passion and purpose because this is something I feel deeply compelled to share. This blog is a longer one, so buckle up. 

The more I learn about genetics, the more I realize how empowering it is to understand our unique blueprint for health. In a world of generic advice and one-size-fits-all solutions, genetic testing stands out as a powerful tool. It allows us to tailor our health journeys to meet our individual needs, preventing potential challenges and enhancing our vitality. 

Genetic testing identifies specific markers that affect how our bodies: 

• Process nutrients 

• Respond to exercise 

• Produce hormones 

• Detoxify 

• Handle stress

  
  

With this knowledge, we move beyond guesswork, making informed decisions to support our health and longevity. But this isn’t just a concept to me, it’s personal.

When I was diagnosed with my ovarian cancer "dis-ease," it was a wake-up call. Instead of dwelling on “why me?” I focused on “why and how?” Why did this gene (PALB2) present itself? How did the switch get turned on? Then after going down the "could the Covid virus have caused this to present itself" rabbit hole(I never did get the jab but innately felt just having the virus this could have contributed.)I learned my paternal grandmother died of pancreatic cancer, so she likely carried a genetic risk we never knew about, since genetic testing in the 80s wasn’t what it is today. Pancreatic cancer is one of the three cancers this gene (PALB2)shows up in.  So I asked myself: “How can I influence my health moving forward?” I firmly believe that having a gene for a disease doesn’t mean you’re destined to experience it. Genes give us the potential, but it’s our environment, lifestyle, and ultimately our choices that really shape what happens.

Recently, I discovered that I carry two copies of a common variant in the MTHFR gene( Simply put, my body may process certain nutrients a little differently.) which plays a key role in the methylation process. This is our body’s way of managing detoxification, inflammation, hormone processing, and neurotransmitter production. This mutation puts me at higher risk for issues like heart disease, stroke, anxiety, depression, infertility, and even cancer. Since it causes problems with detoxification, that means my liver struggles to eliminate toxins like heavy metals and iron.

When I tested positive, it clicked: my family’s history of gallbladder surgeries, heart disease, mood disorders, terrible periods, inflammation, and cancer all started to make sense. I shared this with my family so they’d be aware, and three of them, who took an interest, decided to get tested. I tested my mom, given her genetic and heart health challenges, as well as her gallbladder removal, she also carries this mutation. My aunt, who was struggling with inflammation, high blood pressure, and iron issues (hemochromatosis), has it. My cousin, dealing with inflammation, high stress, terrible periods (like I did/infertillity) also has it.

Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if most of my family has at least one variation. They haven’t tested but I hope they do! It’s incredibly common, yet often overlooked by Western medicine in favor of our pharma driven "sick care system." Approximately 30% to 40% of Europeans carry at least one copy of the MTHFR gene mutation, which is common across different populations and that number is growing!

The MTHFR mutation creates a bottleneck in the body’s ability to convert folate into its active form, methyl folate, slowing this pathway. This conversion is CRITICAL for cellular health and when it slows down, toxins back up like traffic at a narrow pass, contributing to inflammation, detox struggles, mood imbalance, and associations with issues like anxiety, sleep disruption, infertility, arthritis, addiction, dementia, and cancer.

But here’s the best part, even without testing, there are small steps you can take to support your body:

• Avoid synthetic folic acid found in enriched grains and processed foods. Think, NO:gluten, processed sugars, and heavy metals.

• Choose methyl folate, the active form your body can use. Think: organic, grass-fed/finished foods, dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, chard), avocado, asparagus, legumes, liver, egg yolks to aid detoxification.

• Take the active form of B12 (methylcobalamin), carefully! Some people with certian gene variants (I do) can react negatively, so it's best to TEST NOT GUESS before supplemeting!

• Support your liver with nutrients like NAC (from the amino acid L-cysteine)  and reduced glutathione 

• Regularly check your homocysteine and B-levels (these are linked to cardiovascular issues) 

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Supporting detoxification is critical! Check out one of my previous blog posts where I explore my favorite personal hacks for detoxifying and exercise.

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Since making these changes, I’ve experienced PROFOUND improvements in my energy, mood, and overall well-being. My mom, aunt, and cousin have also noticed significant benefits from adopting these shifts, and they continue to remove inflammation and heal. Supporting our genetics through targeted nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle (environment/EXERCISE/detox) adjustments is genuinely life-changing.

I’m currently working with an incredible, ethical (they do not sell your DNA), supportive company for this specific lab for both myself and my clients. “The Works” goes far beyond just checking for the MTHFR.  Their simple mouth swab test is processed through a trustworthy, CLIA-certified lab, and the report is easy to understand. It’s become a staple in supporting overall wellness.

I wholeheartedly believe every child should have access to their genetic information from birth (I pray this is a thing for our children one day). Knowing our genes gives us powerful tools to make informed decisions for optimal wellness, based on our unique genetic blueprint. It’s all about gaining direct insight into YOU!

I’m sharing this because I want to empower you. Genetic testing isn’t about fear, it’s about freedom. It’s about understanding your body’s unique needs and giving it the tools to thrive. If this resonates with you, I encourage you to explore your own genetics. 

The lab report I use covers the following:

• MTHFR and OTHER methylation SNPs

• Stress and how your body responds (fight-or-flight)

• Antioxidant production and recycling in the body (Glutathione)

• Detoxification process for hormones, chemicals, and heavy metals

• Histamine Sensitivity

• Response to inflammation

• Genetic expression and the repair of your DNA

• Neurotransmitters and the balancing of brain chemistry

• Energy and overall production

• Oxidative Stress (Advanced)

• Fat & Carbohydrate Metabolism

• Eating Behaviors

• Vitamin Deficiencies

• Food Sensitivities (Genetic Tendency)

• Blood Sugar & Cardiovascular Markers

• Obesity & Weight Loss Markers

• Strength potential

• Endurance vs. sprinter

• VO2 Max

• Cardiovascular health

• Fat loss in response to exercise

The insights are invaluable, and the changes you can make can transform your health and your life. I am here for you always to help you on your journey to homeostasis! 

With love and unwavering passion,

P.S. Stay tuned for...My next Rabit Hole adventure is with TP53, the gene that acts like a cellular watchdog, keeping our cells healthy and stopping them from going rogue.