For years, medical science debated whether diseases are primarily due to one’s genetic code or are attributable to nutrition. Recent studies, however, have indicated that there may be a link between the two. Human DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) has been found to contain segments that respond to certain nutritional signals. As a result, a new branch of science called nutrigenomics has emerged to study the effects of food on gene expression and how the human body reacts.
The goal of nutrigenomics testing is to use genetic analysis to provide doctors, dieticians, and nutritionists with the necessary information to provide appropriate counseling on the foods clients should eat to lead healthier lives.
At Alpha Care Wellness Center, for example, we provide nutrigenomic testing as part of our commitment to delivering comprehensive healthcare services and helping the residents of Weatherford, Texas, and the surrounding communities to be proactive about their health and improve their quality of life.
The Benefits of Nutrigenomic Testing
Your DNA is a self-replicating system that contains your unique genetic code. As such, it is the blueprint of your life because it carries all of the genetic information and synthesizes the proteins that form the building blocks – cells, tissues, and organs – of your body.
Nutrigenomics, also known as nutritional genomics, uses DNA testing to analyze the relationship between your nutrition, health, and genes. Since people metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins differently based on their genetic makeup, nutrigenomic testing provides insight into how your body processes the foods you eat. For example, it can detect whether you are prone to gain weight if you consume foods that contain saturated fats or sugar. If so, you can use that information to choose a diet plan that helps you lose weight.
In addition, nutrigenomic testing can help identify any food sensitivities, intolerances (such as gluten or lactose), or nutrient malabsorption you may be predisposed to. That can help you determine which foods you must avoid or add to your diet.
At the same time, since your DNA plays an important role in how your body produces insulin and burns fat, nutrigenomic testing can help identify your risk of developing diabetes or heart disease. With such knowledge, you can make lifestyle changes that help prevent or delay the onset of these diseases.
Nutrigenomic testing can also provide an understanding of how your genetic makeup affects your exercise ability and performance. In turn, it allows for personalized fitness recommendations that focus on finding the most effective exercises and minimizing your risk of exercise-related injuries.
Nutrigenomic testing can even help determine if you have a sleep disorder, such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome, or sleep apnea, that prevents you from getting the rest your body needs to stay healthy. From there, you and your healthcare provider can discuss appropriate interventions to help solve your sleep problems.
DNA Testing in Weatherford, Texas
At Alpha Care Wellness Center, we are constantly striving to meet our commitment to promoting the health and well-being of the residents of Weatherford and the surrounding communities by offering comprehensive healthcare services of unmatched quality. As a part of that commitment, we offer nutrigenomic testing, which we believe has a significant and positive impact on the way our clients manage their health.
To learn more about nutrigenomic testing and how it might benefit your health and well-being, arrange an appointment with Dr. Catherine Oseni, our board-certified integrative and functional medicine specialist, by calling us at (817) 550-6332. Or, if you prefer, simply fill out this form, and our staff will get in touch with you as soon as possible.