Q & A with Dr. Christina Rahm, LA Living Magazine's January 2026 Cover Model

The start of a new year often inspires transformation. What does “New Year, New You” mean to you personally and professionally?

To me, “New Year, New You” isn’t about reinventing yourself overnight. It’s about alignment. I’ve learned that the more I listen to my body and simplify my life, the clearer my purpose becomes. Personally, it’s a moment to reflect on what truly supports my body, mind, and spirit and to let go of what no longer serves me. Professionally, it’s a recommitment to purpose-driven work, advancing science, sustainability, and solutions that genuinely improve lives. Real transformation doesn’t come from a calendar change; it comes from intentional and consistent choices.

As a scientist and wellness innovator, what do you believe people should truly focus on when it comes to long-term health, not just quick resolutions?

Long-term health is built on foundations, not shortcuts. If people focused on just one thing long-term, it would be reducing toxic load. Everything else - sleep, absorption, cellular health, builds from that foundation. Wellness isn’t about extreme diets or temporary fixes. It’s about understanding how the body functions as an interconnected system and supporting it consistently. Prevention, education, and daily habits will always matter more than short-term resolutions.

How has your own wellness journey evolved over the years, and what lessons have shaped your mission today?

My journey has evolved from treating symptoms to addressing root causes. Early in my career, I saw how many chronic conditions stem from toxicity, inflammation, and lifestyle factors. That realization reshaped my mission to focus on prevention, clean science, and sustainable solutions that empower people before they become patients. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that true healing requires both science and compassion.

What are the most common misconceptions people have about wellness and preventative health?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that wellness is expensive, complicated, or only reactive. In reality, preventative health is about awareness and consistency. Another misconception is that feeling fine means everything is fine. Many health issues develop quietly over time. Prevention is about listening to the body early, reducing toxic load, and supporting health before breakdown occurs.

Your work spans science, entrepreneurship, and global impact. How do you balance innovation with integrity in the wellness space?

Integrity must always come before innovation. If something doesn’t meet my standards scientifically or ethically, I don’t move forward, no matter the opportunity. Every product, partnership, or initiative I’m involved in has to meet that standard. Innovation should never come at the expense of safety, truth, or trust. When integrity leads, innovation naturally follows in a meaningful and lasting way.

Are there daily rituals or non-negotiable habits you rely on to stay grounded, focused, and healthy?

Yes, there are a few non-negotiables for me. Hydration, clean nutrition, movement, and quality sleep are essential. I also prioritize minimizing exposure to toxins whenever possible. Beyond the physical, staying grounded means practicing gratitude, creating moments of stillness, and staying connected to my purpose and my family. Wellness is just as mental and emotional as it is physical.

Looking ahead, what emerging wellness trends or scientific breakthroughs excite you most in 2026?

I’m most excited about advancements in personalized medicine, detoxification science, regenerative health, and the growing understanding of how environmental health impacts human health. We’re learning more about genetics, epigenetics, and environmental exposures and how they influence disease. That knowledge will continue to transform how we approach prevention and longevity.

How do you define success today, and how has that definition changed over time?

Today, success means impact. It means creating solutions that improve lives, protect the planet, and leave systems better than I found them. Earlier in my career, success was more closely tied to achievements and milestones. Now, it’s about legacy, integrity, and whether my work is creating lasting and positive change.

What advice would you give to individuals who feel overwhelmed or discouraged when trying to improve their health?

Start small and be patient with yourself. Health is a journey, not a destination. Focus on one change at a time, whether that’s drinking more water, improving sleep, or managing stress. Progress comes from consistency, not perfection. Most importantly, remember that your body wants to heal when it’s given the right support.

As a mother, leader, and changemaker, what legacy do you hope to leave through your work?

I hope to leave a legacy rooted in compassion, science, and service. I want future generations to live in a world where prevention is prioritized, health is accessible, and innovation is guided by integrity. Above all, I hope my work inspires others to lead with purpose and to believe that meaningful change is always possible.