Nutrigenomics DNA Testing

Nutrigenomics is an exciting field of study that blends nutrition and genomics, focusing on how the food we eat interacts with our genes. Its goal is to understand how our individual genetic variations affect our body's response to nutrients and how this interaction can impact our overall health. The idea behind nutrigenomics is that the food we eat is not just a source of energy and nutrients but also a signal to our genes, capable of altering the way they function. These modifications can potentially impact a variety of biological processes and systems in our bodies, including vitamin metabolism, hormone balance, methylation, detoxification, histamine regulation, nervous system function, metabolic activity, thyroid function, and more.

Nutrigenomics explores how environmental elements, particularly diet and lifestyle, affect our genetic capabilities. While we can't alter our genetic code, we can change our behaviors to diminish their impact on our health. Nutrigenomics testing offers invaluable insights into the interplay between our lifestyle choices and genetic predispositions. This knowledge enables us to make informed decisions to improve our health in harmony with our genetics.

Minor alterations in our DNA, known as Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), lead to subtle yet impactful variations in how our bodies function. These variations can influence aspects like the production levels of a certain chemical, its efficacy, or how our cells interact with it. While these SNPs are not direct causes of poor health, their cumulative effects can impact various areas such as energy levels, mental wellness, and detoxification processes. This, in turn, can contribute to the onset of specific health issues. By examining your unique genetic variations, you gain access to a personalized health roadmap. This offers an in-depth look into your distinct biological advantages and disadvantages, providing a more comprehensive understanding of your overall health.

Lifecode GX’s genetic test reports highlight if you have any common genetic variations (SNPs) that occur in at least 1% of the population and result in differences in biological function, like methylation, nervous system function, hormone balance or detoxification, that can affect health. It doesn’t measure the products of those functions such as blood levels of hormones for example. Sometimes it can be useful to look at results of other types of test alongside nutrigenomic testing.

Anyone can be tested, including children with the consent of a parent or guardian. Given that our genetic makeup is established at birth, the timing of the test does not impact the results. Factors such as your diet, any medical conditions you may have, or medications you are taking will not alter the outcome. Since your genetics remain constant, a single test is all that's required. However, what can change is how you manage your lifestyle to support your genetic predispositions, thereby enhancing your overall health.

As it is the genetic code being tested, which is fixed, the test is not impacted by illness, infections, medication, the food you eat, or supplements you take. To avoid contamination of the sample, please abstain from eating/drinking for at least 1 hour before testing.

The test is a simple, non-invasive mouth swab that is easy to do at home. The only requirement is to abstain from eating/drinking for at least 1 hour before testing. Simply collect a sample of cheek cells using the swab and place the sample and stabilising capsule in the tube provided. All information are provided when you receive your test kit. Return with the signed consent form in your return envelope. You are responsible for arranging and paying for return postage (except for UK clients). There are no special storage or transport requirements and you can return any day.

No. There are very specific genetic mutations that are extensive and highly predictive of a particular medical condition. These are the ones the national healthcare providers investigate for disease diagnosis. Lifecode Gx does not offer this type of testing, therefore we suggest that you talk your healthcare provider about accessing this, alongside any appropriate genetic counselling. However you might want to consider Nutrigenomics Testing as well, as understanding how your body works as a whole (for example hormone balance, detoxification, histamine intolerance, response to stress and methylation in fertility related issues, or nutrient core, detoxification, methylation, detoxification, nervous system, histamine intolerance in case of neurodivergence in children, or general health benefits, etc.) could well be significant.

The genotyping methodology that we use is very accurate (at least 99.9%). Results that fail quality control are not reported (shown on the report as a ‘no result’). The science behind our interpretation is fully referenced in each report. Our reports are reviewed regularly by our expert team to ensure they are up to date and clinically relevant.

You can find the various reports by clicking > here.

The number of reports recommended varies based on your specific health objectives or those of your child. Typically, to gain a comprehensive understanding of a particular condition, 2 or 3 reports might be suggested. However, many of our clients opt for 5 or even 6 reports, recognizing the significant value these analyses offer. Since the testing is a one-time process and the results can be utilized for a lifetime, investing in a more extensive evaluation can be highly beneficial.

Client data is securely stored on the Generation Superhealth Clinic’s and Lifecode GX’s systems and protected using the highest industry standards. On receipt by Lifecode Gx samples are allocated a barcode and all other client identification is removed. The test is used only to create the reports which are only shared with your authorised practitioner and Lifecode Gx senior staff. Each test is processed in our ISO certified UK laboratory and all samples are completely destroyed after 3 months. All client genotyping data is marked for destruction at 5 months and completely destroyed by 6 months. The client report, the data and the DNA sample is never (and will never be) shared with, or sold to third parties.

Generation Superhealth Clinic’s client portal is fully GDPR standardised and in line with all legal requirements around the world.

Many companies offer gene testing services, but it's crucial to remember that this is intricate information that needs careful interpretation. We don't just supply you with a DNA test kit; we also help make sense of the complex data through the specialized Nutrigenomics Reports and specialised expertise. These reports translate the thousands of lines of intricate data into actionable insights and an achievable nutrition and lifestyle plan to optimize your health and wellbeing.