In this episode, we challenge the dangerous myth that everyone should follow the same wellness advice. Dr. J Dunn explains why your genetic blueprint determines whether popular supplements help or harm you, and how understanding your biochemistry can solve health problems that conventional approaches miss.
You can also listen to the audio here. Also available on Spotify and Apple
Prefer reading? Get the episode transcript here:
Topics Covered
- Why genetic testing focused on biochemical pathways differs from ancestry or drug compatibility testing
- What genetic variants are, and how they affect enzyme function at the cellular level
- The critical difference between genes and enzymes, and why this distinction matters
- Why popular supplements like turmeric can actually worsen symptoms for some people based on their genetic makeup
- The truth about the MTHFR gene and why methylfolate isn’t the universal solution many claim it to be
- How genetic variants influence sleep patterns, entrepreneurial tendencies, empathy, and relationship dynamics
- The difference between methylation patterns (which can change) and genetic variants (which don’t)
- Case examples: resolving ALS-like symptoms, depression, allergies, and autoimmune conditions through genetically-based interventions
Critical Takeaways
There is no one-size-fits-all supplement or diet. What helps one person can harm another based on genetic variants that control enzyme function.
Genetic variants don’t create “fast” enzymes. You inherit either 100% enzyme function or reduced function (30%, 70%, etc.), never increased function.
Genes code for enzymes, not outcomes. The focus isn’t on turning genes on or off, it’s on providing the right cofactors (vitamins and minerals) to help slow enzymes work more efficiently.
The MTHFR obsession is oversimplified. Looking at one gene in isolation ignores the complex interplay of biochemical pathways. Methylfolate can trigger rapid detoxification that overwhelms the body.
Food reactions may be delayed. If you notice irritability, brain fog, or depression, look at what you ate yesterday. Metabolites take time to build up and create symptoms.
Genetic testing can reveal why conventional treatments fail. Issues like chronic depression, chemical sensitivities, or difficulty losing weight often have biochemical roots that standard approaches miss.
Understanding your genes removes self-blame. When you discover your brain can’t make neurotransmitters efficiently or your body holds onto fat due to inherited variants, it’s not a personal failing. It’s biochemistry that can be addressed.
What You Can Do
- Keep a food diary and track how you feel 24–48 hours after eating specific foods to identify genetic mismatches
- Question popular wellness trends. Just because something is widely recommended doesn’t mean it’s right for your body
- If you’re taking supplements without understanding your genetic variants, you may be working against your biochemistry
- Consider genetic testing that focuses on biochemical pathways such as detox, methylation, neurotransmitters, and energy production, rather than just ancestry or drug interactions
About Dr. J Dunn
Dr. J Dunn is the founder of MyHappyGenes® and Wholistic Methylation. After years of battling lifelong depression and finding no answers through conventional or natural approaches, Dr. J discovered the power of genetic testing focused on biochemical pathways.
Her work helps people understand how their unique genetic variants affect detoxification, neurotransmitter production, energy creation, and overall health.
Learn More
MyHappyGenes® Test Kit and Reports
Learn more about the MyHappyGenes® test and view sample reports.
Watch weekly Q&A videos addressing questions about genetics, wellness myths, and science-backed health information on YouTube.
Bottom Line
Your genes aren’t a life sentence. They’re an instruction manual.
Understanding your unique genetic blueprint allows you to work with your body instead of against it. Stop blindly following trends and start testing, not guessing.
About the Host
I, Greg Cox, have been working in the wellness space for 20+ years and was a chef for 25 before that, often creating health meals for restaurants and as a private chef. I created the Rebellious Wellness Lifestyle Podcast to empower women to challenge the limitations society places on them as they age.
I believe in science without outsourcing intuition. In prevention over treatment. And in the radical act of remaining visible, engaged, and fully expressed at every age.
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Keep the Rebellion Going
Sometimes the most rebellious thing you can do is stop accepting limits that were never yours to begin with. Your future self will thank you for refusing to settle for “this is just how it is.”
If you’re ready to take your health to the next level and want support that actually fits your body and life, book a free discovery call and let’s talk it through.
Have a question, a topic you want explored, or a belief about aging you’re ready to challenge? Email Greg at gregory@rebelliouswellnesslifestyle.com
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This episode is part of the Rebellious Wellness Lifestyle movement about questioning conventional wisdom and refusing to live by limitations that don’t actually have to exist.
For more paradigm-shifting conversations, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and explore past episodes at RebelliousWellnessOver50.com/podcast
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.