İlker Çağlayan’s Health Insights: “We Are Living Against Our Genetic Design”

Renowned health and nutrition expert İlker Çağlayan has shed light on the disconnect between our genetic heritage and the modern way of life. Emphasizing the importance of aligning our habits with our biological design, Çağlayan remarked, “The human body evolved to thrive in nature. However, today, with processed foods, sedentary lifestyles, and constant consumption habits, we are straying far from our genetic blueprint. This disconnection is driving a surge in health issues.”

“Our Lifestyles Contradict Our Genetic Makeup”

Çağlayan elaborated on how modern sedentary lifestyles starkly contrast with how humans are meant to live. “Our ancestors were hunter-gatherers. They moved for hours, climbed trees, and expended significant physical effort to find food. Today, all it takes to eat is pressing a button to order delivery. This level of inactivity is completely unnatural,” he explained.

The consequences of a sedentary lifestyle, he said, go far beyond weight gain. “Reduced physical activity weakens muscles, damages joint health, and leads to internal organ fat accumulation. Movement isn’t optional; it’s a fundamental part of who we are.”

Challenging the notion that fitness requires a gym, Çağlayan emphasized, “Natural movements, like climbing, squatting, or working outdoors, are embedded in our DNA. Yet, we’ve abandoned these essential activities. Even picking up a dropped item by bending naturally has been replaced with lazy shortcuts. This neglect is a major contributor to modern health issues.”

“Fat Isn’t the Enemy, Mismanagement Is”

Dispelling myths about body fat, Çağlayan explained, “Fat is not inherently bad; it’s an essential energy reserve. The problem lies in our inability to utilize this stored energy. Internal fat, especially visceral fat around organs, can pose serious health risks—even for those who appear slim. Understanding and managing fat is key to long-term health.”

“Gut Health Is the Core of Physical and Mental Wellness”

Highlighting the link between nutrition and mental health, Çağlayan pointed to the crucial role of gut health. “Our gut bacteria play a direct role in shaping our eating habits. Poor diets filled with sugar and processed foods encourage the growth of harmful bacteria, disrupting the natural balance in our gut. This doesn’t just cause physical issues—it also leads to psychological problems like anxiety and depression,” he stated.

He explained that harmful gut bacteria can send misleading hunger signals to the brain, making us crave unhealthy foods. “By consuming clean, unprocessed foods, we can restore the balance of beneficial gut bacteria. This not only improves physical health but also boosts mood and mental clarity. Regular exercise further supports gut health and helps us become more resilient and positive,” he added.

“Coffee and Fast Food: Hidden Addictions”

Çağlayan also addressed modern addictions like coffee and fast food. “Coffee doesn’t give you energy; it merely stimulates your adrenal system. If you feel you can’t function without it, that’s a sign of dependency. Similarly, fast food should be treated as an occasional indulgence, not a staple. Consuming it in moderation—no more than once a week—is key to maintaining balance,” he advised.

“Balance Is the Key to Everything”

For Çağlayan, the secret to a healthy life is balance. “It’s not just about what you eat, but also when and how you eat, combined with movement. The human body thrives on natural, whole foods and regular physical activity. Yet, modern conveniences are disrupting this harmony,” he emphasized.

“Embrace Movement and Nutrition to Preserve Your Genetics”

Concluding with a call to action, Çağlayan urged, “There’s no need to eliminate any food entirely, but we must limit addictive, highly processed products. Embrace movement, eat foods in their natural state, and listen to your body. Our genetic design has supported humanity for thousands of years. Respecting this design enables us to live not only longer but better.”

This in-depth perspective from İlker Çağlayan challenges us to reconsider our habits in light of our genetic heritage. Adopting a lifestyle aligned with our natural biology isn’t just essential for individual well-being but also a step toward a healthier society overall.

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