So, I have a confession. For a long time, I felt like a fraud. I teach my clients how to eat clean, sleep well, have more energy, and even turn around and avoid disease. And, guess what? Even though they have been thrilled with their new lives, filled with energy and vitality…I’m quite the opposite. Each day is filled with pain and fatigue. But I’m on a journey, and I want to share what I’ve found so far. My cardiologist opened the door with a test he did to see if I’m at a high risk for heart disease. It uncovered a MTHFR genetic mutation that around 50% of the population has. (My doctor wrote a great blog post on it!) Not only that, but I inherited it from both my mother and my father, which means I am “homozygous.” Only a very small percent of the population is homozygous…around 14%. What this means is that I am in fact at a high risk for early heart disease and cancer. In a nutshell, my body cannot process toxins like others can, and also doesn’t retain certain nutrients. One doctor, who also has it, described it as running a race with one leg. But here’s the cool part…I’m learning what to do about it! Our genes can be turned off or on by diet and lifestyle, but sometimes it takes more advanced methods to head them off at the pass.
Here’s what you can do…
First, I’m not saying that you should run out get your genetics tested now. The first steps involve living a healthy lifestyle. (See steps 1-4 so far.) Give it time. Cleaning up what you put in your body and on your body will help keep new toxins out. Increasing your water consumption will help flush toxins out. Exercising regularly will help release toxins. Proper sleep habits will support detoxification through your liver, kidneys, brain, etc. Stress management will ensure that you’re making the right decisions about your health. If after 6 months you are not feeling your best, it might be time to consider the next steps. If you’ve already looked into adrenal and thyroid issues, you’re on the right track. If these tests have come up normal, genetic testing is a good option.
After my initial test results came in from my cardiologist, I decided to drill down further to get specifics. I used 23andMe.
The next step is to have your results read. I used a couple different companies, but here is a great run down on your options.
The next step is to work with a practitioner who understands genetic SNPs, and how to work with them.
Knowing your genetic profile gives you an advantage to overcome pain, fatigue, and head off disease.
So why have I told you about my own issues? I have the belief that God uses whatever we go through for the purpose of helping others. If I hadn’t looked into my genes further, I wouldn’t have the answers I have today. I would have also continued to feel confused and like an imposter as a health coach. In light of what I know now, I realize that He saved my life. If I hadn’t become a health coach, and hadn’t been practicing what I teach, you probably wouldn’t be reading this blog today. There wouldn’t be a Holistic Christian Life, a My Beautiful Lent, or The Holistic Christian Woman. I just wouldn’t have had the energy or clarity of mind. Thanks be to God in all things…in sickness and in health!
Next week…Hormones!