Two years ago, I applied for a new life insurance plan. As expected, I had to complete an extensive questionnaire and undergo a series of medical tests with a visiting nurse. It wasn’t a big deal. I was told I’d hear back in a couple of weeks.

Sure enough, two weeks later, my financial advisor called:

“John Paul, I hate to say this, but the insurance company did not approve your application. Due to a family history of colon cancer, they require a colonoscopy before making a final decision.”

I had a colonoscopy in my early thirties. It had been ten years since then, so I agreed to have another one.

The procedure went smoothly. The physician confirmed I was clean as a whistle, and my life insurance application was approved.

So why am I sharing this story?

Well, I have two strikes against me when it comes to colon cancer risk…

Strike 1:

My father passed away from colon cancer at just 41 years old. This is one disease where inheriting a mutated gene from an affected parent is quite common.

Strike 2:

Research suggests that a high consumption of red meat is linked to an increased risk of colon cancer—and I eat a lot of red meat!

But here’s the key: genetics isn’t destiny.

I believe the reason I haven’t struck out is due to a concept known as epigenetics. You can read more about it here, but here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Your genes are like a gun.
• Your lifestyle is the trigger.

I may carry the gene for colon cancer, but my lifestyle keeps the safety on that gun.

And contrary to popular belief, the red meat I eat almost daily is part of the healthy lifestyle that keeps that gun from being fired. Most research on red meat and colon cancer involves “garbage” meats—processed, grain-fed meats full of toxins, hormones, and chemicals. It makes sense that consuming those regularly could increase cancer risk.

But I don’t eat those meats. I eat grass-fed meat from healthy, pasture-raised animals.

If you have a genetic predisposition for cancer or any other disease, here’s my advice:

Live a healthy lifestyle and don’t pull the trigger!