Genetics

Your genes set the framework, but your daily choices fill in the story. Research from twin studies suggests that genetics account for about 15–30% of lifespan, while the rest is shaped by environment—including diet, exercise, social connections, and stress. Changing habits—like adding regular exercise, eating a Mediterranean-style diet, and managing chronic stress—can add a decade or more to your healthy years, even in people with genetic risk.

Yes, research has identified genes such as FOXO3, IGF1R, and CETP that are linked to longer life and healthy aging. Having certain FOXO3 variants, for example, is associated with reaching advanced ages and resisting some age-related diseases. IGF1R is linked to more resilient cells, and CETP affects cholesterol and heart health. These gene variants give a modest advantage, but don’t guarantee longevity—healthy living still matters most.

Genetic reports like those from 23andMe can highlight risk factors for diseases such as Alzheimer’s, certain cancers, and heart disease. For example, finding out you carry APOE4 or BRCA variants can prompt tailored prevention—like earlier screening or preventive medications. While some info is educational, these reports can empower you to make smarter lifestyle decisions and inform discussions with your healthcare team.

Yes—knowing your risk lets you take targeted steps. For Alzheimer’s, research supports regular exercise, a Mediterranean diet, good blood pressure and cholesterol control, social engagement, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol—even for APOE4 carriers.

For BRCA mutations, options include earlier and more frequent screening, risk-reducing medications, and preventive surgery. Lifestyle improvements help lower risk for everyone, no matter their genes.

Variants in genes like TCF7L2 and MTNR1B boost diabetes risk, but healthy eating, physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can halve or even eliminate much of that risk.

The Diabetes Prevention Program found that lifestyle changes cut diabetes risk by 58%—even for people with high genetic risk—so you really can overcome genetic odds.

Definitely. Daily routines can “switch on” protective genes through epigenetics, which refers to changes in gene activity without altering DNA itself. Regular physical activity, fiber-rich diets, restorative sleep, and stress management all favourably influence gene expression and the markers of cellular aging.

You can’t change your genes, but you can change their behaviour.

Telomeres are the protective tips at the ends of chromosomes; longer telomeres are linked to slower aging. While genes such as TERT help regulate telomere length, lifestyle has major influence: regular aerobic activity, eating more plants and less processed food, not smoking, and staying socially and mentally engaged all help preserve telomeres.

We plug your 23&Me report into Genetic Lifehacks - a program that analyzes your raw data and gives a lengthy report on your unique health.

These reports analyze hundreds of DNA variants related to health pathways—covering aging, heart, metabolism, cognition, vitamins, and detox. You get specific data about the gene variants you carry, their impact, and practical tips, often linked to science.

Recommendations made my Genetic Lifehacks are generally referenced to scientific research—even showing direct links to databases and published studies. Foundational tips (eg, for BRCA, MTHFR, APOE4) are evidence-backed; others (like caffeine metabolism or vitamin needs) may have more limited data but still useful suggestions. Always pair with guidance from healthcare professionals.

Yes—your data might suggest more folate for MTHFR, omega-3s for APOE4, different responses to exercise or substances, or earlier screening for conditions like cancer. 

Lifestyle changes can meaningfully reduce most common disease risks—even with “risky” genes. Diet, movement, stress management, and proactive screening are your best levers.