What Is Nutrigenomics And What Is The Point Of Nutrigenomic Testing?
Nutrigenomics is a field of genetics that helps in determining the nutritional requirements of an individual based on their genetic makeup.
Nutrigenomics also aims to identify genetic susceptibility to diseases and the ways in which very small difference in our genes can alter the effects that nutrient intake has on the body.
Nutrigenomic testing is at the forefront of personalized medicine.
We are all very unique, and DNA testing allows us to gain a greater understanding of our unique biochemistry, so that we can optimize health and prevent disease.
Our individual genetic make-up controls what we can and can’t digest, our tendency to gain weight, absorb important nutrients and cope with toxins.
By knowing our individual tendencies we might be able to stop uncomfortable symptoms, prevent obesity and fight disease.
How Can Nutrigenomics Help You Find The "Perfect" Diet?
There are two approaches to nutrigenomic testing:
Firstly, scientists can investigate how common variations found throughout the human genome explain individual differences in response to dietary intake.
These days we can easily access our own nutrigenomic data, which allows us to find our "perfect" diet, based on our unique genetic profile.
Many people thrive on a high fat ketogenic diet and have no problem with their cholesterol levels, while others experience the exact opposite response.
A simple DNA test can now help people determine if your diet of choice is actually the best option for you.
The second approach that nutrigenomics researchers use is to investigate how nutrients and bioactive components in food turn on or off certain genes that control important metabolic and physiologic processes in the body.
For example, researchers have identified compounds found in broccoli that can switch on a specific gene that helps the body detoxify harmful chemicals we are exposed to.
This "broccoli" gene is missing in about 20% of the population which means a large number of us will not benefit from the detoxifying properties of broccoli.
As you can see, a diet that is matched to your specific genotype is extremely powerful when compared to traditional diet formulations.
Nutrigenomic testing used to be reserved for the elite but is now affordable and easily accessible for everyone.
NutritionGenome have created a simple tool which allows anyone to gain an in-depth understanding of their potential genetic “weaknesses” and "strengths".
They have created an easy to use cheek swab for toddlers through seniors that will provide all the information you need on nutrition plus much more.
All you have to do is:
- order your DNA test
- Register your kit and take a swab
- Send it back.
Best yet, NutritionGenome provides an evidence based report and actionable science based suggestions of how and what you should eat to turn these genetic weaknesses into strengths.
They even provide you with a personalized DNA-Based Grocery List, providing insight on foods that encourage healthy genes function, and foods to avoid based on your personal gene expression.
Nutrition DNA Test: The Blueprint To Your Unique Biochemistry
The Nutrition DNA test reveals how your current diet interacts with your genes and how individual genetic differences can affect the way you respond to vitamins, minerals, and compounds in the foods you eat.
Basically, this simple saliva swab test provides you with the blueprint to your biochemistry.
These results can not only influence your health and longevity, but also that of future generations of your family bloodline.
NutritionGenome are the leaders in Nutrigenomic innovations. Once you send a swab saliva sample to them they will send you a 50+ page personalized report, with analysis covering 85+ clinically relevant genes across all of the major biochemical pathways.
They organize your health results into 8 sections to make it easy to understand, so you can unlock the true power of nutrition.
Let's take a look at the 8 areas of investigation within the Nutrition DNA test and some example reports for each:
Nutrition DNA Test Components and Results
The following results are a small example of the total results exported from the NutritionGenome DNA Test Kit.
>> You can learn more about this test at the official NUTRITIONGENOME website
Nutrition DNA Test Results For Digestion:
The NutritionGenome DNA Test Kit allows you to learn your body’s metabolism for protein, fat, carbohydrates, and higher needs for vitamins, minerals and compounds to discover your optimal ancestral diet.
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- You have a good conversion of plant-based omega-3 ALA (walnuts, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds) to EPA and DHA.
- Improved transportation of folate into the cell for the SLC19A1 gene.
- Vitamin D levels more likely to be in range due to normal variant of CYP2R1 gene.
- Normal adiponectin levels, linked to improved bodyweight, insulin and glucose levels.
- Lower risk of iron overload for the HFE genes.
- Improved glucose metabolism from saturated fat intake
- Reduced likelihood of saturated fats causing weight gain for the APOA2 gene.
- You have an increased ability to breakdown lactose in milk. Lower probability of chronically elevated uric acid levels.
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
- You have a reduced conversion rate of plant-based beta carotene (squash, sweet potatoes, carrots) to vitamin A. This increases your need for foods higher in vitamin A like eggs, cod liver oil, wild salmon oil and organ meats for skin, digestion,healthy eyes, lungs, and immunity.
- Lower bifidobacteria levels in the gut that may decrease B12 absorption and GABA production due to variants in the FUT2 genes. This increases your need for prebiotic foods to help probiotic colonization like garlic, onions, leeks, pistachios, asparagus, bananas, kiwi and artichokes.
- You are more likely to have low B6 levels due to variants in the NBPF3 gene, increasing the sensitivity to medications that deplete B6 (oral contraceptives, antibiotics, ACE inhibitors, antacids, proton pump inhibitors and more). You need to focus on increasing foods high in B6 like wild salmon, pistachios, avocados and potatoes.
- Increased probability of elevated blood sugar from refined sugar and grains due to variants in TCF7L2. You may do better on a diet low in grains, higher in omega-3 fatty acids, diversified prebiotic foods, higher in olive oil, and includes cinnamon, turmeric and cordyceps mushrooms.
- Potentially elevated levels of histamines in the digestive tract due to variants in APB1 gene that encodes for the DAO
enzyme. You may be more sensitive to gut dysbiosis and fluctuating estrogen levels (females). Histamine is lowered by Vitamin C, choline, folate, magnesium, chamomile, basil, stinging nettle, echinacea, fennel, ginger and wild oregano. - Potentially elevated levels of histamine in the central nervous system, skin and bronchial tissue due to a heterozygous or homozygous HMNT gene.
- You may be more sensitive to gut dysbiosis and fluctuating estrogen levels (females). Histamine is lowered by Vitamin C, choline, folate, magnesium, chamomile, basil, stinging nettle, echinacea, fennel, ginger and wild oregan
Nutrition DNA Testing For Energy and Methylation:
Learn which genetic pathways may be leading to fatigue and how to target these genes to boost daily energy levels.
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- Your MTHFR A1298C gene function is working well for normal BH4 levels and neurotransmitter function.
- Improved breakdown of synthetic folic acid.
- You have improved B12 transportation due to normal TCN2 gene function.
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
- You have an increased need for riboflavin and methylfolate due to variants in the MTHFR C677T gene for normal
homocysteine levels. - You have an increased need for folinic acid, the second most common type of folate after methylfolate.
- Potentially higher sensitivity to B12 deficiency from antacids, antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, Metformin, anticonvulsants, oral contraceptives and certain psychiatric medications due to homozygous MTRR gene.
- You have a higher need for magnesium and boron to assist normal SAMe levels for a healthy glutathione levels, joint and low back pain, a balanced mood and liver detoxification.
Nutrition DNA Test Results For Hormones:
Understanding gene function can help you balance hormones and create an efficient detoxification system.
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- Your SHBG gene function is good, helping maintain normal testosterone, estrogen and progesterone levels.
- Other epigenetic factors should be considered for hormones.
- You have an improved DI01 gene function for T3 and T4 thyroid function, however other epigenetic factors should be assessed.
- Improved T3 and T4 thyroid function in the brain for the DI02 gene.
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
Nutrition DNA Test Results For Detoxification:
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- Good VOKRC1*2 function for normal vitamin K2 levels unless gut function is compromised from antibiotics, SIBO, leaky gut syndrome, IBS, IBD, Crohn’s disease or parasites.
- Good COQ2 gene function for a lower likelihood of statin drug induced muscle pain
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
- More unlikely to respond to Phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital, omeprazole (Prilosec), Acetaminophen, codeine, ciclosporin (cyclosporin), diazepam, and erythromycin.
Nutrition DNA Test Results For Mood and Neurological:
Determine serotonin, dopamine, adrenaline, GABA and glutamate gene function to understand your mental and neurological health.
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- You have improved PEMT function for phosphatidycholine levels for a healthy liver, memory, homocysteine levels and REM sleep.
- Normal levels of BDNF for improved glutamate modulation, brain repair, spatial learning, memory, and adaptability.
- You do not have the APOE E4/E4 genotype, improving cholesterol transport and the maintenance of brain neurons.
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
- You have potentially lower levels of dopamine due to a lower density of dopamine receptors. This could theoretically create a higher likelihood of addictive behaviors, compulsive eating and ADHD. Keeping your blood sugar balanced with adequate protein and fiber, high intensity exercise, lower media exposure, vitamin D, omega-3’s and meditation all increase dopamine receptor density.
- You have a slower breakdown of dopamine, adrenaline and estrogen, creating higher circulating levels in response to
stress due to variants in the COMT genes. - You have a reduced glutamate to GABA conversion due to numerous variants in the GAD1 genes. If neurodegenerative
disorders run in your family, all the genes associated with glutamate levels should be assessed. - You may have a delayed recovery from head injuries due to variants in SLC17A7. It is advised to be proactive with zinc,
omega-3 fatty acids, Lion’s mane mushroom, magnesium and consistent exercise in case a head injury occurs.
Nutrition DNA Test Results For Inflammation, Antioxidants and Longevity:
Receive an analysis on your glutathione genes and other antioxidant genes to understand how to decrease your individual triggers of inflammation and increase the probability of longevity.
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- Your catalase (CAT) gene working well, assisting with mitigating damage to your cells.
- Good glutathione antioxidant protection in the lungs for GSTM1, increasing the probability of longevity.
- Good glutathione antioxidant protection for breast or prostate health for GSTP1
- Your NOS1 gene is functioning well helping lower the inflammatory process from psychological stress.
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
- Your mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell) has a higher sensitivity to glyphosate (sprayed on GMO corn and soy),
fluoridated water, chronic stress, poor sleep and shallow breathing. Increase foods that contain manganese, lycopene, and vitamin C, mushrooms like reishi and cordyceps, and exercise that encourages deep breathing. - You have a higher sensitivity to the damage from foods fried in vegetable oils, viruses and mold due to an increased need for cell membrane support. Increase foods that contain choline, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids to protect the cell membrane.
- You have potentially higher free radical damage (inflammation) from statin drugs, iron levels that are out of range (low or high) and lead due to variants in the GPX1 gene. This increases your need for vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, ginger, cumin, anise, fennel, caraway and cardamom.
- You have an increased need for foods high in lutein and zeaxanthin for healthy eyes.
Nutrition DNA Test Results For DNA Protection, Repair and Damage:
Review your genes for DNA damage, protection and repair to find the “chinks” in your armor so you can be proactive for healthy DNA.
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- Good DNA repair for colon health
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
- You have an increased need for folate to improve DNA repair for the ATM gene in relation to pancreatic and breast
(females) health. - You Increased sensitivity to processed meats (hot dogs, salami, pepperoni) and colon cancer risk due to variants in
GATA3. Reduce processed meat intake, optimize vitamin D levels and increase berries, apples, sauerkraut, broccoli,
tomatoes, basil, rosemary, garlic, onions and leeks.
DNA Test Results For Cardio and Athletic Performance:
Learn about the genes involved in caffeine metabolism, blood clots, triglycerides, stress, muscle recovery, injury prevention, VO2 max, required plant-intake for heart health and more.
Example Report Findings - Strengths Identified:
- Lower levels of muscle inflammation post-workout, reducing the time needed for full muscle recovery and repair.
- Your LPA gene is functioning well, helping keep Lp(a) - a sticky form of LDL that affects plaque levels - at a healthy level.
- Your 9p21 gene is working well for cardiovascular health
Normal or heterozygous variants in ADRB2, lowering the inflammatory response on the heart for chronic stress.
Improved fibrinogen levels for the ESR2 gene - Good F5 gene function for a lower probability of deep vein thrombosis
Example Report Findings - Weaknesses Identified:
- Higher need for strategies to increase oxygen capacity for aerobic exercise due to variants in PPARGC1A gene
- You have a higher catabolic effect on muscle from overtraining requiring more post-workout recovery support like ice baths, purple sweet potatoes, blueberries, cherries and beets due to variants in TNFA gene.
- Higher probability of tendon and ligament injuries due to a homozygous variant in COL1A1, increasing the need for dietary collagen and vitamin C.
- You have a reduced PON1 gene function for pesticide detoxification, HDL and LDL oxidation.
Best Nutrigenomic Test Kit
Benefits of Nutrigenomic Testing:
GET YOUR PERSONALIZED AT HOME DNA TEST KIT AND NUTRITION REPORT
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