Two Truths About Genetics and Lifestyle

I want to share two truths that are important to understand when we talk about body composition. 

👉 The first truth: We all have different genetics, which is generally an accepted fact. 

👉 Second, we all make different lifestyle choices. This isn't to say certain choices are superior but simply that they are different.

And here's a third truth to consider: 

Even if you mirrored someone's exact choices—eating the same foods, doing the same workouts—your genetics would still influence your unique outcome. You would still look and feel different. 

However, I believe that if more people consistently made good lifestyle choices, they would be very pleased with how their genetics responded.

Let's break this down further.

Our Genetics

Regarding body composition, our genetics establish the potential ranges for leanness and fatness. They also determine how much muscle we can build and where it's distributed. Similarly, our body weight will fall within a certain range.

But these ranges are influenced by both our biology and behaviors. 

You have the ability to set goals for gaining muscle and losing body fat, and you can operate anywhere within your genetic range if you adjust your behavior. 

For example, two identical twins might set different body fat goals, and one might become significantly leaner by managing caloric intake. 

Our genetics are fixed, but by forming consistent habits, you can get to “the best version of yourself."

Our Lifestyles

A healthy lifestyle and consistent, sustainable habits can significantly influence your body, regardless of your exact genetic makeup.  

Factors like nutrition, strength training, staying active outside the gym, limiting alcohol, getting adequate rest and managing stress have positive effects on everyone. And these factors become even more important as we age. 

For best results, adopt a personalized approach that considers your genetics, hormones, environment and preferences. It’s not one size fits all, and it's worth noting that there's much to learn about obesity and weight loss, with ongoing research needed to fill the gaps.

I'm particularly interested in research on weight management for women during perimenopause and menopause, and I'm open to the idea that there's still much we don't understand about this transitional period.

What we do know is that consistently practicing healthy habits over several years can lead to improved health outcomes—for everyone. 

While we can't control our genetics or every aspect of our environment, we can make significant progress by creating positive daily habits. 

It's often surprising and encouraging for people to see how their genetics respond once they start proactively managing their choices!