Page 225 - Flaunt 171 - Summer of Our Discontent - PS

ters finish sending signals between brain cells. People with a form of the gene that produces less COMT have a janitor who can’t clean the brain very well. These people also tend to be more cre- ative, so as an artist, you’re more likely to fall into this category. Add lifestyle factors to this, like those accus- tomed to performance and applause, with a particular nutrient set, and you have circumstances quite unique.
I began my career as
an engineer for Fortune
500 consulting companies, but quickly switched gears when a close friend died of cancer at the age of 28. Grief inspired action and in re- searching ways to help peo- ple live healthier and longer lives, I came across the work of Dr. Roger J. Williams. He developed the concept of biochemical individuality
in 1956, and challenged the notion that our health and nutrition systems should be built for the “average” per- son (who simply doesn’t ex- ist). Over 60 years later, I was shocked to learn that no one had taken any action based on this research, so I went on a mission to show people how to use their individual- ity in genetics and lifestyle to help, rather than hinder, their overall health—and my company Gini Health was born.
Anecdotally, most of our
artist friends and customers
fit into this “worrier gene”
DNA profile. In addition,
most of the artists we have
worked with are deficient in
Vitamin D, which can lead to
immune system and mental
health issues. So, how about
COVID related lifestyle
variables, and corresponding
nutrient health? Here are some COURTESY KRÖLLER-MÜLLER MUSEUM, OTTERLO, NETHERLANDS. general rules of thumb, much
of which is combinational and
warranting of consultation like we do at Gini Health.
Performance: those accustomed to performance and applause are lacking this in-person social validation, which can cause serious problems with mood and stress. Until it’s time for that again, B vita- mins and iron are important for energy; Rhodiola helps in reducing exhaustion or fatigue; Vitamin D has been shown to reduce depres- sive symptoms.
Movement: more sedentary lifestyles mean less circulation, which prevents proper nutrient absorption. Research has shown that calcium absorption and utilization are affected by exercise. Find ways to move, whatever they are.
Diet: more packaged, “convenience” foods mean less of some nutrients and more of others. This also affects gut health includ-
ing digestive issues, weight fluctuations, skin problems and mood swings. Not to mention, fiber and water-soluble nutrients like folate, B vitamins and vitamin C get lost during this “convenience” pro- cessing. So limit the quarantine snacks! You may be tired of seeing your friends’ bread baking on Instagram, but I would bet some of those loaves are nutrient rich!
VINCENT VAN GOGH. “SORROWING OLD MAN (AT ETERNITY’S GATE)” (1890). OIL ON CANVAS. 31.5” X 21.2”.
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I envision a future where not only are we able to experience performance and art in person again, but where the wellness indus- try gives people only what they need, rather than making something and then telling them that they need it. The psychological effects COVID is having on artists is making this mission more important than ever before, because none of us are exactly alike, and no per- formance is ever the same.