DNA Tests
DNA testing is becoming very popular and there are an increasing number of tests available on the market right now.
If you are interested in or considering having a DNA test there is some important information you should know before deciding on which one is best for you.
It can be very confusing to know just how valuable your chosen DNA test is in terms of your present and future health.
Some tests will measure over 750,000 genes and tell you that you are at risk of Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s, and you like many others may not want to know that kind of information.
But there are some genes that can be measured that can give you more practical information about how you can make simple changes to your diet and lifestyle that can change your present and future health.
We tend to think of our genetic make-up being in the hands of fate and then shrugging off genetic conditions with an, “oh well, if it is all pre-determined there’s nothing I can do”.
But this is far from true.
Subtle differences in characteristics between us all are caused by a combination of:
– Genetic make-up (or genotype)
– The environment in which you live
A classic example of this is if you inherit the gene for being tall (thanks to your genotype) but fail to reach your true height because of malnutrition (due to environmental factors that have intervened).
In this way, the environment can affect the intended working, or “expression” as it is called, of that gene.
But your individual identifying traits or characteristics such as your height, for example, are known as your “phenotype”.
Your phenotype is a combination of both 1 and 2 as listed above and is the combination of both genetic and environmental influences.
So, it is not true to say you are ‘stuck’ with all your genes.
Research is showing that we are all truly a mix of our genetic make-up and the environment in which our genes are exposed.
In terms of genetic testing, it’s more important to know the genes where you can improve any potentially weak areas and actively take more control of your overall health.
It is also important for your future health because what you learn about your genetic make-up can help you make better choices and work on prevention.
Listed below are a number of genetic tests now available that focus on these genes:
DNA Oestrogen Test
Research has shown that an increased lifetime exposure to oestrogen is a strong risk factor in the development of breast cancer.
The DNA Oestrogen Test measures 11 genes involved in oestrogen biosynthesis, oestrogen metabolism, and phase I and phase II liver detoxification.
DNA Health Test
The DNA Health Test is designed to optimise your well-being and health by customising your lifestyle and diet choices and, where appropriate, using supplements tailored to offset any specific nutritional deficits found based on
your individual genetic make-up.
DNA Diet Test
The DNA Diet Test measures 15 genes that impact on your metabolism and exercise and it comes with a detailed personalised report with recommendations on dietary changes and an exercise programme to help improve your general health, weight levels and fitness.
DNA Mind Test
Knowledge of your individual genetic make-up can provide valuable information that can assist in determining optimal treatment strategies if you are suffering from, or at risk for, mental health disorders.
DNA Skin Test
This DNA Skin Test aims to improve any visual signs of ageing by focusing on interventions that are suited to your unique DNA.
For more information and to order:
Please call 01892 515905 or email reception@glenvillenutrition.com to arrange this test