Q: I come from a long line of “physically sickly” ancestors. Because of that, is it really going to make any difference at all if I make different decisions in my own lifestyle choices? Seems rather hopeless to me.

A: No doubt you have heard the old saying: “Prevention beats cure.” That can apply to almost every area of life. In my brain’s opinion, current research indicates that there is a huge amount of hope if you grab onto it. For example, Genetics (genes and chromosomes you inherit from your biological ancestors) is believed to have about a 30 percent impact on your health, wellness, and potential longevity. Epigenetics (everything that is not genetics including your own lifestyle choices) appears to have a 70 percent impact on your health, wellness, and longevity. Where is there any hopelessness in that?

Hopelessness begins with a choice to believe that there is nothing you can do that would help you to be healthier. There is always something that can be done to improve one’s health, wellness, and potential longevity. Mindset is critical because self-talk, choices, and behaviors follow what you think. If you think you can do something or think you cannot do something, either way you are correct. Because of this, estimates are that 70 percent of how well and how long you live is in your hands.
What do you want? If you keep on doing what your ancestors and you have always done, you will continue to get the same outcomes. Start with one aspect at a time and build healthier skills into your daily routine.

That is precisely the reason I wrote—with input from colleagues—the Longevity Lifestyle Matters Program. (Access information about it from my website at https://arlenetaylor.org/longevity-lifestyle-program.) You can follow the program in your own home, at your own pace, and implementing strategies that work for you and your brain.