DNA Testing

Introducing
PRECISE Nutrigenomics

DNA Testing - Nutrigenomics Book

Nutrigenomics, otherwise abbreviated as NGx, is the study of how genes interact with nutrients and dietary habits. It aims to understand how genetic variations affect individual responses to food, which can influence health, disease risk, and overall wellness. ¹

With our PRECISE Nutrigenomics assessment, you will gain personalized insights that empower you to make informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle. Our expert team analyzes your unique genetic blueprint to deliver personalized, actionable recommendations tailored to your body’s needs. From optimizing nutrition to enhancing overall well-being, this assessment puts you in control of your health journey — no guesswork, just precision. ²

Additionally, the resulting report from PRECISE NGx comprises three distinct sections:

Comprehensive Summary

  1. Macronutrients: This section scrutinizes genetic markers that determine how your body metabolizes fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
  2. Micronutrients: The report assesses genetic variations that impact how essential micronutrients like vitamins and minerals are absorbed and metabolized.
  3. Food Response: It investigates how genetics influence individual reactions to specific food ingredients, such as lactose and caffeine.
  4. Liver Detoxification: This section evaluates genetic predispositions related to the effectiveness of liver detoxification mechanisms, a critical process for overall health.
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Detailed Nutrient & Food Recommendations​

  1. Offers a thorough examination of every nutrient category, thereby providing specific, individualized dietary advice based on your unique genetic profile.
  2. It also tailors dietary recommendations to maximize intake of macro- and micronutrients according to your genetic characteristics.

Gene Variant Information

This service evaluates 46 targeted gene variants to provide detailed insights into specific genetic alleles and their associated health implications. By understanding how these genes influence metabolism, nutrient absorption, and health risks, medical professionals can develop precise, personalized strategies for nutrition and supplementation. This tailored approach supports more effective interventions, helping individuals optimize their health and prevent potential issues through informed, evidence-based decisions. It’s a cutting-edge tool for aligning dietary and wellness plans with one’s unique genetic blueprint.

Application Examples of Nutrigenomics

Food Response

Certain food components like ethanol, caffeine, and lactose must go through biological processes to be utilized by the body. Genetic variations can influence how efficiently these components are metabolized, leading to differences in tolerance, absorption, and overall effects on health.

Case 1: Caffeine & CYP1A2

Caffeine is a natural stimulant that affects the brain. Its metabolism primarily occurs in the liver through the enzyme CYP1A2. However, some people carry a genetic variant that slows down CYP1A2 activity, classifying them as “slow caffeine metabolizers.” These individuals may be at higher risk of heart-related issues if they consume large amounts of caffeine daily.

Case 2: Lactose & LCT

Lactose, a carbohydrate found in dairy products, is broken down by the enzyme lactase, which is regulated by the LCT gene. People with certain genetic variations in LCT may produce less lactase, leading to lactose intolerance. This condition makes it difficult for them to digest lactose, often causing symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after consuming dairy products.

Application Examples of Nutrigenomics

Nutrient Utilisation Efficacy

Certain genes play a role in how the body processes, utilizes, and stores nutrients. Variations in these genes may affect the body’s ability to convert, clear, or recycle specific nutrients, leading to differences in nutrient absorption and usage efficiency.

Case 1: Omega-3 Conversion

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are essential Omega-3 fatty acids vital for heart, brain, and nervous system health. In the body, ALA can be converted into EPA and then into DHA, but this process is inefficient. Certain genetic variations in the enzymes responsible for these conversions may reduce the body’s ability to produce EPA and DHA from ALA, affecting overall Omega-3 levels. This can impact cardiovascular and cognitive health, making dietary intake of EPA and DHA from sources like fish more important for some individuals.

Case 2: Beta-carotene Conversion

Beta-carotene is a red-orange pigment found in vegetables like carrots and pumpkins. In the body, it is converted into Vitamin A by the beta-carotene oxygenase 1 (BCO1) enzyme, which supports vision, immune function, and skin health. Certain genetic variants can slow this conversion, leading to an accumulation of beta-carotene in the body. As a result, individuals with these variants may experience skin discoloration (a yellow-orange tint) after consuming large amounts of beta-carotene-rich foods, a condition known as carotenemia.

Application Examples of Nutrigenomics

Liver Detoxification

The liver plays a key role in processing nutrients, food components, and medicines through conversion, storage, and detoxification with the help of enzymes. Certain genetic variations may affect the liver’s detox efficiency, potentially increasing health risks.

Case 1: GSTM1 and Cancer Risk

The Glutathione S-transferase Mu-1 (GSTM1) enzyme plays a key role in detoxifying harmful toxins, excess nutrients, and medications, aiding in their excretion from the body. This process helps protect against cellular damage and potential toxicity. Individuals with a genetic deletion of the GSTM1 gene have reduced enzyme activity, which impairs the body’s detoxification process. This genetic variation has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, such as lung cancer, due to the body’s reduced ability to neutralize carcinogenic substances and environmental toxins.

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  1. Our Nutrigenomics (NGx) screening offer valuable insights into how your genes influence your dietary needs and preferences, but it’s essential to ensure proper consent and oversight, especially for individuals under 18.
  2. The test results are not meant to be regarded as the sole source of recommendation for medical decisions and do not replace visits to a healthcare professional.
  3. While there are no age restrictions for undergoing these tests, minors must have their legal guardian complete the request and consent form on their behalf. This ensures that the evaluation process is conducted responsibly and with full awareness of the implications, allowing guardians to make informed decisions regarding their child’s genetic information and its potential impact on their health and well-being. In the case of children, their phenotype (DNA traits) should remain the same, but adjustments to the dosages may be necessary as they grow older.