Nutrigenomics is an explosive, revolutionary science that has emerged from the extraordinary Human Genome Project, which worked on sequencing the human genome from 1990 to 2003. Simply put, our genes contain coded instructions for the functioning of our bodies: every single enzyme, hormone and antibody involved in every single metabolic process is controlled by our genes.
Each of us has a unique genotype, and some of us have discreet genetic variations or mutations, which mean some processes don’t work exactly as they should. The variation might, for example, cause the body to over-produce or under-produce a substance. Sometimes this can actually protect us from disease, but often, when combined the wrong diet and unhealthy lifestyle choices, it may increase the risk of developing chronic disease.
Most of us are what we call ‘vertically ill’. We’re not bedridden, but, without being aware of it, our metabolic functions are misfiring, and the diet, supplements and medications we’re taking don’t complete our genetic profile. They’re not working optimally, so our bodies are slowly breaking down. By the time symptoms show, we’re already in the throes of chronic disease. Chronic diseases like cancer, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, obesity and type-2 diabetes don’t just happen overnight.
While our genes never change in our lifetime, they are constantly interacting with the food we eat, the air we breathe, the toxins we imbibe – all the things that we absorb through our mouths, lungs and skin. We now know that nutrition is probably the greatest tool we have for influencing how a gene expresses itself. Putting the right nutrients into our bodies can actually neutralize the negative effects of a gene variant and bring the body back into balance. By tweaking our individual diets and lifestyles, we can step up or slow down a gene’s activity so as to reduce the risk of disease.
The implication of this new science is breathtaking. Nutrigenomics could truly empower people to minutely manage their own health. By matching our diets to our genetic profiles, we can, for the first time, really optimize our health. Gone are the days of knocking back bottles of vitamins, reducing your fat intake or cutting back on salt with little or no effect. This is bespoke health care, personalized nutrition, tailor-made treatment.
There are currently 2 DNA Products available; one for optimal weight loss and one for optimal health:
DNA Diet: One of the first products of its kind in the world, DNA Diet tests for 8 genes that impact metabolism and fat loss. The results provide individual recommendations that include gene-based personalised dietary changes, an eating plan to achieve optimal weight loss, and guidance as to the type and amount of exercise required.
DNA Health: DNA Health optimises health and wellness through gene-based personalised nutrition. It tests 20 genes involved in seven key biological processes. The results provide individual recommendations that include: gene-based personalised dietary changes, dietary goals for relevant vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and foods, and requirements for nutritional supplementation where required.
HOW CAN A GENE TEST CONTRIBUTE TO A BETTER DIET AND LIFESTYLE?
Your health is a result of the interplay between your genes and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, stress, smoking and alcohol consumption. Your unique genetic makeup determines which nutrients are used and how they are used, the way toxins are removed and how effective key processes function within your body. However, by adjusting your diet and lifestyle, you can have a great impact on how your genes work, and compensate for areas where your genes do not function optimally.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DNA HEALTH IN PLANNING A HEALTHY DIET?
Today, every pharmacy, health food shop, magazine and supermarket is stacked with dietary and nutrition advice, much of it sound and beneficial. But how do you know which guidelines are relevant for you? The problem is not only the quality but the large amount of advice out there. Gene-based guidelines that are tailored to your particular nutrient and supplementation needs are more effective.
WHAT KIND OF GENE TEST IS DNA HEALTH?
DNA Health focuses on gene variations that may call for changes in diet or lifestyle to optimise your health and wellbeing. By learning more about your unique genetic make-up, you will learn to prioritise your diet and lifestyle in areas that could be of greatest benefit to your health.
WILL YOU TEST FOR ANY SERIOUS INHERITED DISEASES?
No, our screening is not a test for inherited disorders or inherited predisposition to disease. We do not screen for disorders caused by a defect in a single gene, such as Huntington’s disease, cystic fibrosis or sickle-cell anaemia. Nor do we test for inherited genes linked to a specific disease – for example, genes associated with certain forms of breast cancer that run in families. If you think you may carry the genes for an inherited disease, speak to your doctor.
DNA Health focuses on the presence of gene variations that influence a person’s ability to derive maximal benefit from diet and lifestyle practices. While we cannot promise that our advice will prevent you from ever become ill, the test allows you to make informed choices about your diet and lifestyle that will give you a better chance of staying healthy.
CAN DNA HEALTH TELL ME IF I AM ILL?
No, we can only determine what types of genes people have and how they relate to certain metabolic processes involved in well-being. That is why our lifestyle questionnaire asks whether you are under medical supervision. If you think you may be ill, you should consult your doctor.
WHAT TYPE OF GENE TEST IS DNA DIET?
DNA Diet focuses on gene variations involved in weight and exercise management. Your results will empower you to optimise your chances of effective weight loss, by following a diet and exercise programme specific to your needs.
For more information contact:
Malani du Toit
Mobile: 082 430 9169
E-mail: malani@futurehealthsa.co.za
