Identical Twins Put Their Genetics To The Test After One Goes Vegan And The Other Doesn’t—The Results Will Shock You

Jevon and John Whittington basically turned their bodies into a reality show. Same starting point, same twin DNA, but one brother went vegan while the other stayed on an omnivore diet, and the results were wild enough to land on Netflix in You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment.

Here’s the complicated part, the study ran from May to July with 22 identical twin pairs, 44 people total, all fed 21 catered meals before they took over their own menus for the final four weeks. Both Jevon and John began the experiment in peak shape, nearly identical body fat and impressive cardiovascular health, so there was no easy excuse for what happened next.

By the end, their numbers told two totally different stories, and it all started with what they chose to eat.

Jevon and John Whittington spill the beans (and greens) on how two diets took their bodies in opposite directions.

ABC News

That’s why the first big clue comes from Jevon and John going head-to-head after those 21 catered meals, because the “same schedule” part was locked in.

The trial ran from May to July and enlisted 22 pairs of identical twins—44 participants in total. It involved a side-by-side comparison of plant-based versus meat-based diets; it even made its way to Netflix as a documentary titled You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment. 

Participants were treated to 21 meticulously prepared meals by a catering service before taking control of their own menus for the final four weeks. Among these test subjects were Jevon and John Whittington, who revealed their wildly different health outcomes to the New York Post.

Both started the experiment in peak physical condition, with nearly identical body fat percentages and impressive cardiovascular health. However, after just two months of the study, their bodies told two very different stories.

Dietary preferences can be highly influenced by genetics, but they also reflect personal choices and lifestyle. While genetics lays the groundwork, diet plays a pivotal role in health outcomes.

The results prove that what’s on your fork can lead to some truly jaw-dropping results.

Netflix

Once the final four weeks kicked in, John’s vegan switch started showing up fast, with visceral fat dropping from 0.37 pounds to 0.03 pounds.

This also matches the tension in a friend refusing to repay a significant loan.

Meanwhile, Jevon’s omnivore plan didn’t just hold steady, his visceral fat barely changed, but he still piled on 7.1 pounds of muscle compared to John’s 2.3-pound gain.

John, the twin who went vegan, saw remarkable improvements in his health. He shed visceral fat—the hidden and hazardous fat hugging your organs—dropping from 0.37 pounds to a barely-there 0.03 pounds. 

His insulin levels also dipped by 20%, and his bad cholesterol fell by 12%. These changes suggest that veganism might just be the MVP of heart health.

Jevon, who was on the omnivorous diet, flexed his own strengths—literally. While his visceral fat stayed nearly the same (a tiny drop from 0.22 to 0.21 pounds), he packed on a whopping 7.1 pounds of muscle compared to John’s 2.3-pound gain. Jevon’s results showed that an omnivore diet might be the go-to for those chasing gains in the gym.

Both brothers stuck to regular workouts, combining cardio, weight training, and intervals. Despite the dietary differences, neither emerged as the “better twin.” Instead, Jevon admitted they’ve since scaled back on meat and dairy while still enjoying a balanced approach.

The study highlights an undeniable truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all diet. Whether you’re slicing into steak or sautéing tofu, your goals dictate the best path forward. 

The Whittington twins’ story shows us that the secret isn’t about picking sides—it’s about finding balance. So, skip the diet wars and eat what fuels your best life. And hey, maybe binge that Netflix doc while you’re at it—it’s the ultimate food for thought.

And since both brothers kept up the same cardio, weight training, and interval workouts, the diet choice is what makes the gap between them feel impossible to ignore.

While twins provide a unique opportunity to study the effects of different diets, it's essential to recognize the environmental factors at play. Our social circles and cultural backgrounds significantly influence our dietary choices.

Research suggests that making dietary changes in a supportive environment can lead to better adherence and long-term success. For instance, surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals can enhance motivation and accountability. Building a community around healthy eating allows for shared experiences, recipe exchanges, and encouragement, making the journey towards better health more enjoyable.

The journey of the identical twins in this article serves as a compelling case study in the intricate relationship between genetics and lifestyle choices. As one twin adopts a vegan diet and the other maintains an omnivorous one, we gain a rare glimpse into how divergent dietary paths can lead to strikingly different health outcomes. The article illustrates that while our genetic makeup provides a foundational framework, it is ultimately our dietary choices that play a significant role in shaping our health.

The emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods is particularly noteworthy. It highlights the importance of understanding individual health needs and how these can be harmonized with dietary preferences. This not only informs personal nutrition but also empowers individuals to make choices that resonate with their unique biological profiles, potentially leading to enhanced well-being.

One twin chased his health with greens, the other chased his gains with meat, and the body math did not cooperate.

Want another intense “my way or the highway” family fight? Read about a partner insisting on exclusive breastfeeding.