Is your workout helping you heal - or keeping you stuck in a cycle of inflammation?

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily - his "Frenchie"

Discover why some bodies bounce back from a hard workout within a day, while others stay sore, swollen, or sidelined for a week - and how a handful of genes tied to inflammation and bone strength may be the reason. Dr. Sam breaks down how exercise-induced micro-damage is actually the first step toward getting stronger, what happens when the body never gets the chance to fully repair, and how to tell whether your training style matches your genetic recovery capacity

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Inflammation 101: Why exercise micro-damage happens - and how it turns chronic when repair fails, leading to fluid retention and lost muscle tone.
• VDR1 & VDR2: How Vitamin D Receptor gene variations raise bone fracture risk and drive stronger inflammatory responses.
• IL-6 & TNF-alpha ("Hub Genes"): Why cytokine hub variations prolong the repair response, causing chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and soreness.
• Movement vs. Exercise: Why reframing "exercise" as "movement" and "training" improves consistency for those triggered by the word "exercise."
• Recovery Is Not Optional: Why sleep, anti-inflammatory nutrition, saunas, cold exposure, and light swimming matter as much as the workout.
• Smarter HIIT: Capping HIIT at 2-3 sessions per week with 45-60 sec bursts of deep muscle burn and keeping total session time under 30 minutes.
• The Pedometer Advantage: Why step counters are one of the most effective tools for building consistent, low-inflammation movement.

Loved learning what your genes reveal about injury and recovery? Don't leave your training to guesswork - subscribe and drop us a review to help others decode their DNA

Connect with Dr. Sam:
• IG: @fitgenesusa
• Web: FitgenesUSA.com

Health practitioners: Head to FitgenesUSA.com to become a certified practitioner and access advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

TIME STAMPS:
00:00 - Intro & Overview
00:48 - Host Introductions
01:14 - Exercise-Induced Inflammation Genetics
02:08 - Case Study: Over-Exercising & Fluid Retention
04:17 - Scaffolding Analogy of Inflammation
07:03 - Reversing Hyper-Inflammation
08:06 - Hyper-Inflamers & The Muffin Test
11:42 - Key Inflammatory Genes (IL-6, TNF-Alpha, VDR)
13:28 - DNA Decoded Program
15:32 - VDR Genes & Bone Micro-Fractures
18:21 - TNF-Alpha: Inflammatory Smoke Alarm
19:24 - Personalizing Workout Frequency
22:15 - Effective Recovery Strategies
23:00 - Movement vs. Training vs. Recovery
32:00 - Strains, Sprains & Injury Anatomy
36:40 - Fit Genes USA Practitioner Info
37:54 - Safe Training for High-Risk Genotypes
40:08 - 45-to-60-Second HIIT Protocol
44:26 - Tracking Recovery & Lactate Threshold
49:14 - Modifying Overtraining in CrossFit
51:02 - Outro & Resources

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

References:

• Genetic variation and exercise-induced muscle damage
• Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms and injuries
• Vitamin D receptor protein and IL-6 in skeletal muscle
• Exercise-induced VDR and AR mediate inhibition of IL-6
• VDR gene polymorphisms and fracture healing

Are you training against your genetics without even knowing it?

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily-his "Frenchie".

Discover how a single gene (called ACTN3)-nicknamed the "speed gene"-can reveal whether your body is naturally wired for explosive power, endurance, or a mix of both. Dr. Sam breaks down muscle fiber types, evolutionary history, and injury prevention strategies.

Key topics covered in this episode:
• ACTN3 Genotypes: RR (power), XX (endurance), and RX (blended) profiles.
• Sprint vs. Endurance Genetics: Fast-twitch explosive power vs. slow-twitch aerobic performance.
• Evolutionary History: How migration, foraging, and cold survival shaped genetic variants.
• Injury Prevention: Training and recovery strategies based on your genetic profile.
• Beyond Genetics: The roles of diet, hormones, and mindset in performance.

Loved learning the code behind your muscle fibers? Subscribe and drop us a review to help others decode their DNA!

Connect with Dr. Sam:
IG: @fitgenesusa
W: fitgenesusa.com

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your clients' genetics?

Elevate your practice today at FitgenesUSA.com to become a certified practitioner.

DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

References:

• Baltazar-Martins G, Gutiérrez-Hellín J, Aguilar-Navarro M, et al. Effect of ACTN3 Genotype on Sports Performance, Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage, and Injury Epidemiology. Sports (Basel). 2020;8(7):99. Published 2020 Jul 13. doi:10.3390/sports8070099.

• Eynon N, Hanson ED, Lucia A, et al. Genes for elite power and sprint performance: ACTN3 leads the way. Sports Med. 2013;43(9):803-817. doi:10.1007/s40279-013-0059-4.
• Yang N, MacArthur DG, Gulbin JP, et al. ACTN3 genotype is associated with human elite athletic performance. Am J Hum Genet. 2003;73(3):627-631. doi:10.1086/377590.

Alpha-actinin-3
• Alpha-actinin is an actin-binding protein with multiple roles in different cell types. This gene expression is limited to skeletal muscle. It is localized to the Z-disc and analogous dense bodies, where it helps to anchor the myofibrillar actin filaments.[7]
• Fast versus slow twitch muscle fibers

• Skeletal muscle is composed of long cylindrical cells called muscle fibers. There are two types of muscle fibers, slow twitch or muscle contraction (type I) and fast twitch (type II). Slow twitch fibers are more efficient in using oxygen to generate energy, while fast twitch fibers are less efficient. However, fast twitch fibers fire more rapidly, allowing them to generate more power than slow twitch (type I) fibers. Fast twitch fibers and slow twitch fibers are also called white muscle fibers and red muscles fibers, respectively. The alpha-actinin-3 protein is found in type II muscle fibers.

• It has been speculated that variations in this gene evolved to accommodate the energy expenditure requirements of people in various parts of the world. 8]: 155–156  Over 75% of the persons have one or two copies of ACTN3 577R and have alpha-actinin-3. Homozygous individuals (ACTN3 577XX) have no alpha-actinin-3 (16%-20% of the population), [11][12 but they have a high level of alpha-actinin-2.

Ever feel like your "healthy" diet is making you feel worse?

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily - his "Frenchie".

In this episode, we dive into the genetics behind histamine metabolism - specifically looking at the AOC1 gene (which codes for the DAO enzyme) and the HNMT gene - and break down what your genetic risk results actually mean for your health. Dr. Sam shares personal experiences and real-life case studies to illustrate how histamine issues manifest, why the histamine load is additive, and how to navigate the frustrating overlap between superfoods and high-histamine triggers.

Key topics covered in this episode:
• The Genetic Blueprint: How DAO and HNMT genes dictate your body's ability to clear histamine.
• The "Healthy Food" Paradox: Why wellness shots, fermented foods (miso, natto, ACV), and aged products can spark unexpected reactions.
• Canned vs. Dry Beans: The surprising science behind storage liquids, processing times, and histamine-producing bacteria.
• Navigating Dairy & Aged Cheeses: How to manage low-lactose foods that are simultaneously high in histamine.
• Flavor Without the Flare-Ups: Practical tips and substitutions for cooking with high-histamine spices like cinnamon, cayenne, and curry powders.
• Roadblocks & Protocols: Actionable strategies, nutrigenomic insights, and how practitioners can avoid costly diagnostic pitfalls.

If you found this episode eye-opening, don't forget to subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave us a 5-star review to help more people decode their DNA!

Connect with Dr. Sam
IG: @fitgenesusa/
W: fitgenesusa

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?

Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

References:

• Ayuso, P., García-Martín, E., Martínez, C., & Agúndez, J. A. (2007). Genetic variability of human diamine oxidase: occurrence of three nonsynonymous polymorphisms and study of their effect on serum enzyme activity. Pharmacogenetics and genomics, 17(9), 687-693. Click Here

• García-Martín, E. et al. (2015). Diamine oxidase rs10156191 and rs2052129 variants are associated with the risk for migraine. Headache, 55(2), 276-286. Click Here

• Meza-Velázquez, R. et al. (2017). Association of diamine oxidase and histamine N-methyltransferase polymorphisms with presence of migraine in a group of Mexican mothers of children with allergies. Neurologia, 32(8), 500-507. Click Here

• Maintz, L. et al. (2011). Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the diamine oxidase gene with diamine oxidase serum activities. Allergy, 66(7), 893-902. Click Here

• Stevenson, J. et al. (2010). The role of histamine degradation gene polymorphisms in moderating the effects of food additives on children's ADHD symptoms. The American journal of psychiatry, 167(9), 1108-1115. Click Here

Discover how your genes (LCT and MCM6) impact lactose intolerance, lactase persistence, and dairy sensitivities. Uncover the crucial differences between sugar intolerances and protein allergies, plus practical strategies for managing dairy in your diet.

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily - his "Frenchie".

In this episode, we dive deep into the science and evolutionary history surrounding dairy digestion. We explore how your DNA dictates your ability to produce the lactase enzyme into adulthood, break down the vital distinctions between non-immune enzyme deficiencies and immune-driven protein allergies, and share actionable tips - from low-lactose swaps to navigating social meals - so you can optimize your gut health with confidence.

• The Genetic Switch for Dairy: How variations in the LCT gene and MCM6 control switch (RS4988235) determine lactase persistence, and why "yellow dot" (heterozygous) results still allow for normal lactose digestion.
• Evolutionary Context: Why the ability to digest milk evolved as a survival advantage in early pastoral communities, offering a rich source of nutrients during food scarcity.
• Lactose Intolerance vs. Dairy Allergy: Clearing up confusion between an enzyme deficiency (lacking the "scissors" to split lactose sugars) and an immune-mediated response (IgE or IgG) to dairy proteins like casein and whey.
• Hidden Dairy Symptoms: Why you might genetically process lactose just fine, but still experience bloating, acne, fatigue, or constipation due to dairy protein sensitivities.
• Enzymes, Ghee, and Smart Swaps: Practical diet hacks, including utilizing lactase enzyme supplements, choosing naturally low-lactose hard cheeses, and opting for pure-fat options like ghee.
• Navigating Social Situations: How to politely handle dining out or hosted meals with gratitude while keeping your digestion protected.

If you found this episode eye-opening, don't forget to subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave us a 5-star review to help more people decode their DNA!

Connect with Dr. Sam
IG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/
W: www.fitgenesusa.com

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?

Elevate your practice by heading over to https://FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

TIME STAMPS
• 0:00 - Welcome
• 1:13 - Why Discuss Lactose Intolerance Genetically?
• 3:11 - Decoding LCT Gene & MCM6 Switch
• 6:24 - Evolutionary Context
• 11:05 - Green vs. Yellow Dots in LCT
• 14:15 - Intolerance vs. Allergy
• 17:11 - IgE vs. IgG Responses
• 24:01 - What Causes Bloating, Gas, & Diarrhea?
• 25:32 - Comparing Lactose Levels in Foods
• 29:02 - Non-Dairy Alternatives
• 33:16 - History of Dairy Industry
• 37:54 - Practical Summary
• 39:17 - How to Decline Dairy Offers
• 41:40 - Final Thoughts

DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

Discover how your genes (HLA DQ genes) impact gluten intolerance, celiac disease risk, and autoimmunity like Hashimoto's. Uncover hidden gluten sources and practical health tips.

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie".

In this episode, we dive deep into the science and culture surrounding gluten intolerance. We explore how your DNA dictates your risk for celiac disease and autoimmunity, break down the crucial differences between allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances, and expose the hidden sources of gluten sneaking into everyday foods—so you can make informed choices and protect your health long term.

• The Power of Genetic Testing: Why understanding your unique DNA offers a lifelong health roadmap to prevent chronic illness before symptoms start.
• Allergy vs. Intolerance vs. Sensitivity: Clearing up confusion between IgE/IgG immune-driven reactions and digestive enzyme deficiencies.
• Celiac Disease & Autoimmunity: How genetic variations in the HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 genes interact with leaky gut to trigger autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
• Modern Wheat & Glyphosate: How industrial farming practices, dwarf wheat breeding, and heavy pesticide/glyphosate use contribute to non-celiac gluten sensitivity in the U.S.
• The "BROWS" Framework: Identifying core gluten-containing grains—Barley, Rye, Oats (via contamination), Wheat, and Spelt.
• Hidden Gluten & Cross-Reactivity: Exposing sneaky sources of gluten in everyday items (soy sauce, imitation crab, salad dressings) and non-gluten foods that can mimic gluten reactions in the body (dairy, rice, yeast).

If you found this episode eye-opening, make sure to hit the Follow button here on Spotify, share it with a friend, and leave us a 5-star rating to help more people decode their DNA!

Connect with Dr. Sam
• IG: @fitgenesusa
• W: www.fitgenesusa.com

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?
Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

TIME STAMPS
• 00:00 - Welcome & Today's Topic
• 02:24 - Allergy, Sensitivity & Intolerance Explained
• 07:06 - Undetected Celiac Disease & Autoimmunity
• 09:40 - Glyphosate & Modern Wheat's Impact
• 18:22 - Decoding Genetics (SNPs & HLA Genes)
• 26:18 - 3 Components of Autoimmune Disease
• 30:57 - Foods with Gluten & The B.R.O.W.S. Rule
• 37:13 - Cross-Reactive Foods & Hidden Gluten
• 45:54 - Managing Intolerance & Leaky Gut
• 50:10 - Gluten, Thyroid Attacks & Inflammation
• 54:02 - Gut Testing & Healing Strategies

DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

References:
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3945755/

Discover how genetics (ADH1B & ALDH2 genes) impact alcohol metabolism, toxicity, and addiction risk. Learn CDC drinking limits, social impacts, and strategies for conscious drinking.

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie".

In this episode, we explore how your genes shape toxicity and addiction risk, unpack social pressures around drinking, and share practical strategies—from CDC guidelines to non-alcoholic alternatives—so you can make informed health choices.

• Genetics of Alcohol Intolerance & Toxicity: How ADH1B & ALDH2 variations determine acetaldehyde conversion—and why lack of flushing isn't low risk.
• The "Unholy Trifecta" of Addiction Risk: How combining alcohol-processing genes with sweet/bitter taste preferences elevates consumption risk.
• Social Pressures & Sober Curious Movement: Alcohol as a social lubricant, regional drinking cultures, and navigating events alcohol-free.
• CDC Frameworks: Defining binge vs. heavy drinking and assessing dependency through health/relational impact rather than volume alone.
• Practical Strategies for Change: Needing vs. wanting help, professional interventions, and using non-alcoholic alternatives effectively.

If you found this episode eye-opening, please subscribe and share it with someone who loves deep dives into health and wellness!

Connect with Dr. Sam
IG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/
W: www.fitgenesusa.com

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics?
Elevate your practice at https://FitgenesUSA.com to become a certified practitioner and access advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

TIME STAMPS
0:00 - Introduction & Podcast Overview
0:51 - Why Study Alcohol Intolerance & Genetics?
2:34 - Consumption Trends & Sober Curious
4:52 - Dr. Sam Shay’s Personal History
8:14 - Social Lubricant vs. Digital Isolation
13:08 - Quitting Alcohol & Changing Friendships
20:34 - Understanding Genetic Reports
23:49 - Key Genes: ALDH2, ADH1B & Acetaldehyde
33:05 - Binge Drinking, Heavy Drinking & Addiction
38:26 - Need Help vs. Want Help in Addiction
42:37 - Warning Signs & Historical Context
48:36 - Alcohol’s Effects on Sleep & Snoring
49:30 - Mocktails & Social Strategies
52:18 - Liver Support & Helpful Nutrients
54:19 - Alcoholism Risk & The "Unholy Trifecta"
59:48 - Current Science & Closing Thoughts

DISCLAIMER
This podcast is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before altering your health routine. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and CarbChoice Advanced.

References
• Jorgenson, E., et al. (2017). Genetic contributors to variation in alcohol consumption. Mol Psychiatry, 22(9), 1359-1367. https://doi.org/10.1038/mp.2017.101
• Edenberg, H. J. (2007). The genetics of alcohol metabolism. Alcohol Res Health, 30(1), 5-13.
• Bierut, L. J., et al. (2012). ADH1B is associated with alcohol dependence. Mol Psychiatry, 17(4), 445-450. https://doi.org/10.1038/mp.2011.124

Ever feel like you’re doing everything right - eating clean, grinding through high-intensity workouts - and yet the scale won't budge or you wake up feeling "puffy"? You might not be dealing with excess fat or calories. Instead, you could be experiencing inflammatory water weight.

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily - his "Frenchie" (who is busy enjoying a studio spa day).

In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating interplay between your DNA, systemic inflammation, and body weight. We break down why the traditional "calories in, calories out" model falls short and how your genes dictate how your body responds to stress, food, and exercise.

In this episode, we cover:

• The 3 Genetic Categories of Weight Weight: Discover why calorie intake is actually the least common driver of excess weight - and how hormonal toxicity and inflammatory water weight dominate.
• The "Bee Sting" Analogy: Understand how your immune system retains fluid to dilute toxins, leading to sudden, unexplainable weight fluctuations.
• The Exercise Paradox: Why over-exercising can backfire in genetically vulnerable individuals, triggering systemic inflammation and weight gain instead of fat loss.
• The "Muffin Test": A simple, real-world metric to help you distinguish between true fat gain and a rapid, hyperinflammatory response.
• Key Genes Driving Your Symptoms: How variations in CRP, Interleukin (IL-6/IL-10), Vitamin D receptors, and liver detox genes (GSTP1) control your body's alarm systems.
• Histamine & Salt Vulnerabilities: Why healthy foods like avocados or fermented items might be triggering a histamine response via DAO and HMNT genes, plus how salt-sensitivity genes (ACE, AGTR1) compound fluid retention.
• Actionable Management Strategies: Practical tips on shifting from stressful "exercise" to gentle movement, customizing your diet using an 80/20 approach, and leveraging targeted supplements like EPA/DHA, sulforaphane, and quercetin.

If you learned something new today, hit subscribe, leave us a 5-star review, and remember: next time you wake up puffy, don't blame the scale - blame your genes throwing a histamine party!

Connect with Dr. Sam
IG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/
W: www.fitgenesusa.com

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?

Elevate your practice by heading over to https://FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:00 - Intro & The 3 Genetic Types of Weight Gain
• 03:32 - The "Bee Sting" Analogy: Size vs. Calories
• 05:47 - Exercise-Induced Obesity & Overworking
• 08:35 - The "Muffin Test" & Inflammatory Water Weight
• 14:38 - Real-Life Case Study: Dropping 4 lbs in 24 Hours
• 18:20 - Decoding High-Inflamer Genes (CRP, IL-6, VDR, GSTP1)
• 24:48 - Exercise vs. Gentle Movement for High-Inflamers
• 28:03 - Salt-Sensitivity Genes & Water Retention
• 31:56 - Histamines, DAO/HMNT Genes & Swollen Weight
• 41:08 - Practical Action Steps & The "Top 10" Elimination Strategy
• 44:28 - Targeted Anti-Inflammatory Supplements & Swaps

DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

Do you feel stiff, achy, or completely wiped out by minor daily stressors, poor sleep, or a single less-than-perfect meal?

It’s not just a sign of getting older: it’s an evolutionary mismatch hardcoded into your DNA.

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily, his "Frenchie" (who is busy enjoying a studio spa day).

In this episode, we break down why being a "hyper-inflamer" was once a literal lifesaver for hunter-gatherers but has become a modern-day recipe for chronic illness. We explore how a core cluster of 16 genes dictates how your body reacts to the modern "inflammatory soup" of processing foods, pollution, and doom scrolling.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Hunter-Gatherer Superpower: Why a hyper-inflammatory response was essential for surviving prehistoric animal wounds, but why that same genetic trait leaves you defenseless against modern environmental insults.
• The Three Phases of the Fire: How your specific genes control the spark (Initiation via IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-alpha), the bonfire (Propagation via IL-8, IL-18, and COX), and whether you have a fire truck or a squirt gun to put it out (Extinguishing via IL-10).
• The Inflammatory Weight Loop: Why highly inflammatory genetic profiles cause people to rapidly balloon with inflammatory water weight from eating half a muffin, and the silver lining of how to drop it just as fast.
• Nutritional vs. Nutrigenomic Dosing: Why standard supplement guidelines fail to move the needle, and how hitting higher therapeutic thresholds (like over 2 grams of combined EPA/DHA fish oil) actually rewrites your cellular machinery instead of just adding a patch.
• The Ultimate Anti-Inflammatory Levers: The incredible genetic power of Sulforaphane (broccoli sprout extract) and SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) inducers like zinc and curcumin to help douse chronic cellular flames.

Subscribe today and share this episode with anyone who feels like they have the joints of an 80-year-old. Every 5-star rating helps others find this show and unlock the power of their own genetic blueprint.

Connect with Dr. Sam:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/fitgenesusa/
• W: www.fitgenesusa.com

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?

Elevate your practice by heading over to https://FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

TIMESTAMPS:

• 0:00 - Intro: Decoding Your DNA
• 0:51 - Welcome & Genetics/Inflammation
• 1:20 - Inflammation: Genetic View
• 2:02 - Hunter-Gatherers vs Today
• 3:50 - Survival vs Chronic Illness
• 6:25 - Environmental Triggers
• 8:13 - What is Chronic Inflammation?
• 10:33 - Dr. Sam’s Story
• 11:38 - Brain & Gut-Brain Axis
• 13:54 - Top 15-16 Inflammatory Genes
• 18:24 - Red, Yellow, Green Dots
• 22:32 - The 3 Fire Stages
• 25:31 - Risk Profiles
• 29:05 - Blueprint Data to Action
• 33:40 - Targeted Interventions
• 35:38 - Nutrigenomic Dosing
• 38:51 - Key Compounds
• 43:01 - Water Weight & Lifestyle
• 47:09 - Summary & Advice

DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

Do you feel jittery, anxious, or completely wiped out after a single cup of coffee?

It’s not just in your head—it’s in your genes.

Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-hosts Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie."

We break down the "depression combo punch" of caffeine sensitivity. We explore how specific variations in your ADORA2A, CYP1A2, and COMT genes dictate whether coffee gives you a clean energy boost or traps your brain in a state of exhausting hyperarousal.

We’ll look at real-life case studies and provide actionable, nutritional workarounds to help you clear caffeine faster and reclaim your calm.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER:

• The "Sleepy Buttons": How the ADORA2A gene controls your adenosine receptors, and why caffeine jams those signals (leaving the "brakes" off your brain).
• The Liver's Cleanup Crew: Why the CYP1A2 gene determines if you are a "fast" or "slow" metabolizer—and why slow metabolizers stay wired for 8+ hours.
• The Stress Pileup: The role of the COMT gene in clearing out adrenaline and dopamine, and how a slow COMT creates the ultimate anxiety storm.
• Nutritional Hacks: How eating cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and Brussels sprouts) can speed up your body's caffeine clearance.
• Practical Q&A: Mikayla asks Dr. Sam how to regulate bowel motility and find pre-workout energy without relying on heavy stimulants.

If this episode made you rethink your relationship with coffee, hit subscribe and share it with your favorite caffeine addict. Your genes—and your friends—will thank you.

CONNECT WITH DR. SAM

• IG: @fitgenesusa
• W: FitgenesUSA

Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?

Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.

TIME STAMPS

• 0:00 - Intro
• 1:03 - The truth about caffeine sensitivity
• 5:16 - Caffeine-induced anxiety and depression
• 13:33 - Understanding genetics: The traffic light system
• 20:26 - ADORA2A: The brain's "sleepy buttons"
• 24:52 - CYP1A2: The liver's cleanup crew
• 26:41 - COMT: Adrenaline, dopamine, and the anxiety storm
• 32:27 - Managing coffee quality, timing, and volume
• 35:32 - Foods that speed up vs. slow down caffeine detox
• 43:00 - How Magnesium Threonate calms a slow COMT gene
• 47:44 - Coffee alternatives and Swiss Water decaf
• 57:08 - Q&A: Why coffee makes you poop and the "Poop Stack"
• 1:03:25 - Q&A: Getting pre-workout energy without stimulants
• 1:09:22 - Delaying morning coffee for better circadian rhythms

DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.

REFERENCES:

• World Population Review: Which Country Eats the Most Chocolate?
• Clinical Study: Association between ADORA2A polymorphisms and caffeine-induced anxiety
• Clinical Study: CYP1A2 polymorphism and caffeine metabolism adaptations
• Clinical Study: Impact of ADORA2A variations on depression and symptoms