Tag: Genetic testing

According to a 2018 review in *Genes & Nutrition*, the heritability of vitamin B12 levels is estimated to be approximately 59%, indicating a significant genetic influence. While diet is a primary factor, this means genetic predisposition can cause B12 deficiency to run in the family, especially through inherited conditions that impair absorption or transport.

An estimated 40-60% of people carry at least one variant of the MTHFR gene, a genetic mutation that can affect how your body processes folate and other B vitamins. While many people with this genetic variant experience no symptoms, understanding its potential impact and knowing how to manage it can be crucial for optimizing your overall health and well-being.

Did you know that worldwide, only about 35% of the population remains lactase persistent into adulthood? So, if you suspect you have trouble digesting dairy, you might be asking: is there a test for lactase intolerance? Yes, and several effective diagnostic methods are available.

While genetic testing for diet is a relatively recent development, with many advancements made in the last two decades, an ancestry DNA diet test combines genetic information and nutritional science to create personalized dietary recommendations based on your unique genetic profile.

According to a study cited by Medical News Today, diet could prevent 1 in every 5 deaths worldwide. Nutrigenomics offers a new level of personalization beyond generic dietary advice by examining how our genes and diet interact at a molecular level.

In recent decades, nutrigenomic research has revealed that individual responses to diet are not uniform, with genetic variations playing a significant role. This paves the way for a major shift in how dietary recommendations are made, moving from a generalized, population-level approach to one that is highly personalized and based on an individual's unique genetic blueprint.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a genetic variant that affects folic acid metabolism is present in a significant portion of the population. When the body cannot properly break down synthetic folic acid, it can lead to health issues that are often mistaken for other conditions. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward finding a solution.

A 2016 systematic review found limited evidence that nutrigenetic dietary advice motivates behavior change, highlighting a key area of public concern. This raises a critical question for many consumers: **is nutrigenetics legit** for practical, personalized nutrition, or is it simply a marketing gimmick?

According to the National Institutes of Health, nutrigenomics research still faces significant challenges in translating its potential into clinical practice. Understanding what are the limitations of nutrigenomics is crucial for anyone considering personalized nutrition based on genetic testing.

According to a 2021 review, the new term “Nutritional Genomics” has largely replaced the former phrase “nutrient-gene interactions” to describe this complex field. Nutritional genomics is the broad term for the study of nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics, encompassing both how nutrients affect our genes and how our genes influence our response to diet.