[tinytoc level=”1″]The Genome[/tinytoc]
All of us have a set of instructions written into our DNA which tells our bodies how to function. This is called the genome. Most of the genome is the same in every person but the small DNA sequence variations known as Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms
or SNPs (pronounced “snips”) make you unique. These unique differences in our genome influence all sorts of things from hair colour to athletic performance and absorption of nutrients. Variations in DNA allow evolution to occur and for us to better adapt to the changing environment.
[tinytoc level=”1″]The Significance of Gene-Environment Interactions[/tinytoc]
Virtually all-human diseases result from the interaction of genetic susceptibility factors and modifiable environmental factors, broadly defined to include infectious, chemical, physical, nutritional, and behavioural factors. This is perhaps the most important fact in understanding the role of genetics and environment in the development of disease. Many people tend to classify the cause of disease as either genetic or environmental. Indeed, some rare diseases, such as Huntington or Tay Sachs disease, may be the result of a deficiency of a single gene product, but these diseases represent a very small proportion of all human disease. Common diseases, such as diabetes or cancer, are a result of the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2000).
[tinytoc level=”1″]Your Genes Are Not Your Fate!![/tinytoc]
Having inherited a particular genetic variant or SNP connotes only an increased environmental susceptibility to a disease risk. Genetic variations do not cause disease but rather influence a person’s susceptibility to environmental factors. This concept explains why individuals are differently affected by the same environmental factors. For example, some health conscious individuals with “acceptable” cholesterol levels suffer myocardial infarction at age 40. Others seem immune to heart disease in spite of smoking, poor diet, and obesity (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2000).
Whether one’s genetic potential for health or harm will manifest depends on the interplay between genes, diet and lifestyle. Because genes respond to the environment, the environment itself can be proactively manipulated in order to alter gene expression, and therefore, to promote either health or disease (Pizzorno 2009).
[tinytoc level=”1″]How Genetic Profiling Can Benefit You[/tinytoc]
While genes determine the range of possibilities, nutrition and lifestyle choices significantly impact on which genetic options are expressed, and thereby influence whether individuals attain the optimal, normal or detrimental potential in their genetic inheritance (Pizzorno 2009).
Genetic profiling can help identify important SNPs that underlie individual variations in key nutrient requirements to optimise long-term well-being. It also helps identify the likelihood of a positive response to dietary and lifestyle interventions that are most likely to help optimise health and prevent chronic disease. Your DNA sequence cannot change but you can change your diet and lifestyle to match your genes and optimise your health, thereby enabling you to take an active role in the management of your well-being.
References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (August 2000) Gene-Environment Interaction Fact Sheet last accessed online 12.7.12 at http://www.ashg.org/pdf/CDC%20GeneEnvironment%20Interaction%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf
Pizzorno L (2009) Nutrigenomics: The Potential to Optimize Chronic Disease With SNP-Based Dietary Recommendations Integrative Medicine 8 5
Genetic Tests
Please note that these tests are available through registered practitioners only.
Weight Management
This test helps guide the design of personalised diet and exercise programmes according to what suits an individual’s genetic 
make-up. It’s done using a simple non-invasive mouth swab to collect the DNA from the inside of the cheek, which is then sent for laboratory analysis. It is examined for 8 variants of 7 genes which relate to how quickly an individual metabolises fat and carbohydrates, as well as looking at appetite control and exercise responses. Thus, the test identifies SNPs (genetic differences) whichcan influence the ideal macronutrient dietary intake and optimal exercise level, measured in METS, for weight loss.
A 30 page personalised report is provided which explains your results and suggests a basic dietary plan which is then combined with a type of exercise. The diet plan can be further individualised to take into account non-genetic factors such as food preferences (eg vegetarianism) or intolerances etc. This test does NOT predict risk of disease or longevity.
CardioGenomicPlus Profile
This test evaluates genetic variations, called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in genes that modulate blood pressure regulation, lipid balance, nutrient metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
The test helps uncover potential genetic susceptibility to: High cholesterol, Myocardial Infarction, Atherosclerosis, Thromboses, Obesity, Hypertension, Stroke, Coronary Artery Disease.
This test can be done via a blood or mouth rinse sample.
DetoxiGenomic Profile
This test evaluates genetic variations, called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), associated with increased risk of impaired detoxification capacity, especially when exposed to environmental toxins. It also helps identify individuals potentially susceptible to adverse drug reactions.
This test is done via a blood sample.
EstroGenomic Profile
This test evaluates genetic variations, called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in genes that modulate oestrogen metabolism, coagulation, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis.
The test helps uncover potential genetic susceptibility to:
Breast Cancer, Stroke, Osteoporosis, Atherosclerosis, Thromboses, Heart Disease.
This test is done via a blood sample.
ImmunoGenomic Profile
This test evaluates genetic variations in genes that modulate immune and inflammatory activity. These variations can affect balance between cell (Th-1) and humoral (Th-2) immunity, trigger potential defects in immune system defence, and stimulate mechanisms underlying chronic, overactive inflammatory responses.
The test helps uncover potential genetic susceptibility to: Asthma, Autoimmune Disorders, Certain Cancers, Allergy, Infectious Diseases, Bone Inflammation ,Arthritis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Heart Disease, Osteopenia, Helicobacter pylori infection (cause of ulcers).
This test can be done via a blood or mouth rinse sample.
NeuroGenomic Profile
This test evaluates genetic variations in genes called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that modulate methylation, glutathione conjugation, oxidative protection and the potential to evaluate vascular oxidation.
The test helps uncover potential genetic susceptibility to: Neurodegenerative Disorders, Developmental Issues, Mood Disorders, Oxidative Stress, Detoxification Capacity
This test is done via a blood sample.
OsteoGenomic Profile
This test evaluates genetic variations in genes that modulate bone formation (collagen synthesis), bone breakdown (resorption), and inflammation, including key regulatory mechanisms affecting Calcium and Vitamin D3 metabolism.
The test helps uncover potential genetic susceptibility to: Low Bone Mineral Density, Osteoporosis, Osteopenia, Age-Related Bone Fractures, Arthritis.
This test can be done via a blood or mouth rinse sample.
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