YOUR PERSONALIZED GUIDANCE TO INTEGRATIVE AND FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION

What are genes?

Genes are bits of code found in our DNA that carry and create our various unique traits. Obvious examples are our eye color or height, but genes can also inform other things like our metabolism, how our cardiovascular system works, or if we might be predisposed to disease. 99.9% of our genes are the same as everyone else’s, but it's that .1% that make us truly unique — and from where we can gain the most insights into how our bodies function.

What is genetics?

Genetics is the study of genes. It's the study of how traits are passed down through families, which genes affect which body processes, and how different genes express themselves, but most importantly how we respond to the world around us, the food we eat, the exercise we do, and the stress we encounter. 

What are genetic variants?

That .1% of our genes that isn’t like everyone else’s is important because it's where genetic variants come into play. Genetic variants are simply ‘spelling changes’ in our genetic code that may impact how the gene works. People that have a specific genetic variant may find their cellular or systems functionality impacted in some way, making it different than someone else’s — sometimes for the better!

What are some examples of genetic variants?

Genes can do all types of things in a person's body, and variants can influence functionality all the way down to the cellular level. For example, the ACE gene influences our potential for fitness endurance or power. The GSTM1 gene helps eliminate toxins from our body. The HFE gene affects our iron storage. The APOE gene impacts inflammation. As you can probably guess, any variation that alters a gene’s functionality can contribute to everything from general bad health to chronic disease.

How do genetic variants impact my health and wellness?

A common misconception is that our genes are set for life, and we can't change them. We can’t change the code, but if we know what genetic variants a person has, and how their genes express themselves in various ways to influence a person's health, then that person can make lifestyle and food choices that take those genetic variants into account. For example, someone may have a genetic variant that causes them to store iron too well. That means that we can do further testing and if need be recommend treatments that will address any excess iron. Or someone may have a genetic variant that impacts their ability to metabolize caffeine. They know then that they need to cut back on that extra cup of coffee! 

What is genetic testing and what does it do?

How do we find out what a person's genetic makeup is? Take a test! Genetic testing is fast and painless, and typically involves a simple cheek swab. The results, however, are complex, and can provide insights into cellular function, systems function, cardiovascular health, how we manage our energy intake, nutrient processing, and more. 

We test over 157 genes that can affect your metabolism, inflammation, detoxification, fitness, weight, hormones, cognition, and response to your diet, and supplements. By understanding how your unique genetics impact these key processes, you can make smarter, more personalized decisions about your health. There may even be insights you never imagined! Our genetic test is designed to provide clear insights and recommendations about areas of health that are most important to you:

• Nutrient needs- What are your body’s unique needs and how do you respond to certain foods? How well do you tolerate fat and carbs? What’s your vitamin D need? Do you require extra antioxidants and Omega-3 fats compared to others? Should you limit gluten, salt, or caffeine?

• Fitness strengths- What type of exercise will your body respond best to? How can you train smarter in alignment with your genes, for better performance, faster recovery, and fewer injuries?

• Proactive prevention- Is your body more prone to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or high cholesterol? How can you support your cardiovascular system and your immune system for more resilience as you age? We also look at processes like your inflammation, detoxification, methylation, and more.

• Ideal Weight- Why does your body resist weight loss and how can you manage your weight in a healthy way that is personalized to your unique body?

• Stress strategies- How does your life stress affect your brain health, your hormones, your sleep quality, and your overall wellness? More importantly, what can you do about it?

Lastly, very gene has been selected based on 2 factors: scientific validity and actionability. The genes in the test were selected from peer-reviewed scientific publications. To ascertain scientific validity, we ensure that there is adequate research to understand what the gene does and how the version of the gene you possess affects your body. Every gene in your report has been hand-picked because there is a documented action you can take to reduce your risk and improve your health. Testing is eligible for HSA/FSA. After sending in your genetic sample, results take 3-4 weeks to process. It destroyed 90 days after we have received your results.