DNA, which stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, is a self-replicating molecule that contains a person’s unique genetic code. Scientists refer to DNA as the blueprint of life because it carries all of the genetic information and synthesizes the proteins that form the building blocks of the human body—the cells, tissues, and organs.
The significant scientific and technological advances that transpired over the last several decades had given birth to DNA testing, which was primarily used for solving crimes and paternity disputes as well as for detecting prenatal genetic defects, such as Down syndrome. Beyond those, DNA testing has further evolved into a multipurpose tool and has now been widely embraced by healthcare practitioners and consumers alike for its potential to improve health and wellness.
Let’s explore the benefits of DNA testing for diet and weight management, fitness, and overall wellness.
DNA Testing for Diet and Weight Management
Nutrigenomics (nutritional genomics) is a field of study that uses DNA testing to analyze the relationship between nutrition, health, and genes. The premise underpinning nutrigenomics is that people metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and protein differently based on their genetic makeup.
DNA testing essentially gives you a good insight into how your body processes the foods that you eat. For instance, it can detect whether you have a genetic variant that makes you prone to weight gain if you consume foods rich in saturated fats or sugary beverages. DNA testing geared for weight loss enables you to choose a diet plan that provides you with the greatest benefit.
DNA Testing for Enhancing Exercise Performance
DNA testing is now becoming an increasingly useful tool among people who want to gain a good insight into the effect of their genetic makeup on their exercise ability and performance. DNA testing allows for personalized fitness recommendations, particularly about which exercises are the most effective for a particular person and about how the risk of exercise-related injuries among those who are genetically predisposed can be minimized.
DNA Testing for Food Intolerance and Disease Prevention
DNA testing helps you identify whether you have a genetic variant that is associated with particular food sensitivities, intolerances (e.g., gluten and lactose intolerance), and nutrient malabsorption. DNA testing also helps you determine which foods to avoid and which ones to add to your diet.
DNA plays a significant role in how your body produces insulin, burns fat, among other functions. DNA testing can help identify whether you have a risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, allowing you to make lifestyle changes accordingly, to help prevent or delay their onset.
DNA Testing for Solving Sleep Problems
DNA testing, while not a diagnostic tool, can provide you and your healthcare provider with important clues that can help you determine if you may have a sleep disorder — such as genetic variants associated with insomnia, or have increased or decreased body movement during sleep. DNA testing helps you foster good habits or seek appropriate intervention to help solve your sleep problems.
DNA Testing in Weatherford, TX
At Alpha Care Wellness Center, we offer nutrigenomic testing as part of our commitment to delivering comprehensive healthcare services and helping the residents of Weatherford and the surrounding communities to be proactive about their health and improve their quality of life.
To schedule an appointment for nutrigenomic testing or a consultation with our board-certified integrative and functional medicine specialist, Dr. Catherine Oseni, call us at (817) 550-6332. You can also fill out our convenient appointment request form.
