Background on Diet and Disease
According to the Center of Excellence for Nutritional Genomics at the University of California, Davis, genes may play a role in the degree to which diet influences disease risk. The study of this interplay between diet, genes, and disease is called nutrigenomics (or nutritional genomics).
Testing for specific genetic markers can offer a wealth of information about how well your diet is working for you, and some changes you might consider to protect your health. At MNT, we offer genetic testing and follow-up nutrition counseling through Nutrigenomix. Read on to learn more about Nutrigenomix at MNT, and to find out if it is right for you!
What Can Genetic Testing Tell Me?
No two people are alike. For example, your genetic make-up could determine what type of diet is most effective for weight loss, if coffee increases your risk of heart disease, or if you are taking the right amount of vitamin D.
Example: Do you drink too much coffee?
Let’s say you’re a coffee enthusiast who averages five cups per day. Perhaps, you don’t FEEL the impact of coffee, but our genetic testing shows you are among the unlucky half of the population. In some people a certain gene variant where too much coffee increases your cardiovascular risk. In fact, excessive caffeine intake may increase your risk for high blood pressure or heart attack by up to 53% if you possess this gene marker.
Example: Are you following the right diet for weight loss?
Research shows that the effects of a high-protein diet for weight loss depend on a the version of a particular gene called “FTO” gene, if you have a certain type of this gene, a high-protein diet increases your success rate following a high-protein diet. What’s the overall lesson? We can tailor the right weight loss prescription based on the results of your test.
Which Test?
We currently have two types of genetic testing, one for general wellness and one for athletic performance. See which one could be for you:
Overall Wellness
The Nutrigenomix Health and Wellness Report tests for 45 genetic markers that may affect your risk for obesity, nutrient malabsorption, heart disease, food intolerance, diabetes, hypertension, and other conditions. Nutrients in the report include:
- Caffeine
- Sodium
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Folate
- Vitamin C
- Saturated Fats
- Whole Grains
Athletes
MNT also offers an Athletic Performance Report through Nutrigenomix, which tests for 45 genetic markers that affect wellness and sports performance. This test provides information on:
- Recovery
- Injury risk
- Motivation
- Metabolism
- Mental Focus
- Eating Habits
- Pain Tolerance
- Aerobic Capacity
- Food Intolerances
- Body Composition
- Nutrient Requirements
- Exercise Performance
How Does it Work?
Nutrigenomix testing is painless, safe, and easy. You simply collect a saliva sample in a container that’s provided and send it in to the Nutrigenomix lab for analysis.
Results are delivered to you McDaniel Nutrition Dietitian in 2-4 weeks. At that time, we schedule a 30-minute phone or office visit to discuss your results and create a plan to optimize your nutrition. You receive a detailed report of your results and recommendations.
The cost for Nutrigenomix testing at MNT is $420, which includes your test a follow-up visit. Click here for more information or set up a call with one of our dietitians to learn more.
Download our sample report!
Watch our Nutrigenomix video