06/17/2026
Most people think of DNA as a fixed blueprint that determines their health.
But your genes are listening.
One of the biggest influences on gene expression is your microbiome—the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms living primarily in your gut.
These microbes produce compounds that communicate with your immune system, hormones, metabolism, brain, and even your DNA.
This means your daily choices matter.
The foods you eat.
Your stress levels.
Your sleep habits.
Your environment.
All of these can influence the microbiome and, in turn, the signals being sent throughout your body.
This is one reason functional medicine focuses so heavily on gut health: when we improve the environment, we often improve how the body functions as a whole.
💬 Have you ever been told that a health condition "runs in your family"? What was it?