Nutrigenomics is the study of how our genes interact with our nutrition. It involves a comprehensive look at one's genetic makeup and how that may affect our nutritional status, which in turn can affect everything from our mood, sleep, energy levels, metabolism, and much more. When viewed in this way, the need for certain nutrients is different for each individual.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs)
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) represent common genetic variations between people. Most SNPs have little or no effect on human health and development. However, when analyzed in the context of our stress levels, diet, and lifestyle, these SNPs may be expressed and therefore have either a positive or a negative impact on our health.
Some common SNPs that could affect health are MTHFR, APOE, COMT, GAD1, and TNF-Alpha.
MTHFR
The MTHFR gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, which determines the activity of Vitamin B-9 or methyl folate. It also influences the activity of homocysteine, a very important compound as it relates to the activity of Vitamin B-12 and other vitamins. The activity of MTHFR can determine our mood, sleep, energy, and much more.
COMT
COMT very important gene that regulates an enzyme that is involved in the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters like Dopamine and Norepinephrine. COMT is very important to look at if you suffer from mood, sleep, or brain disorders.
APOE
APOE provides instructions for making a protein called apolipoprotein E. This protein combines with fats (lipids) in the body to form molecules called lipoproteins. Lipoproteins are responsible for packaging cholesterol and other fats and carrying them through the bloodstream. The efficiency of this process determines our risk for mood disorders and our risk for memory problems such as Alzheimer's/Dementia.
GAD1
If you have this gene SNP, you may not be able to break down the anxiety-inducing neurotransmitter glutamate into the calming neurotransmitter GABA.
TNF-Alpha
This gene encodes regulates cytokine activity, which regulates a wide spectrum of biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, lipid metabolism, and coagulation. The activity of TNF-Alpha is correlated with a variety of diseases, including autoimmune diseases, insulin resistance, and cancer.
Nutrient Analysis
At the same time, the analysis of various nutrient levels, such as B-vitamins, Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Vitamin C, and Selenium can give an overall picture of how one's genes interact with nutrient levels.
We work with several different advanced genetic analysis programs to give you a more complete picture of how your genes might be affecting your health. These programs are more advanced than analysis via 23andme* and can give a more clear picture as to the following critical metabolic processes:
- Methylation. Are you methylating properly?
- Nutrient Metabolism-Ability to metabolize fats, carbs, proteins, and other nutrients
- MTOR/Autophagy. Are you are able to build and rebuild proteins, cellular components, etc.?
- Detoxification. Are your detox pathways (methylation, sulfation, acetylation, glucuronidation, and others working? How efficient are Phase II, Phase II detox pathways
- Anti-aging function: Sirtuins/NRF2/KEAP1/KEAP2/Glutathione/NAD/SOD and Catalyse
- Mitochondrial function-The driver behind many disease processes
- Glutamate/GABA: Your brain's ability to stay focused and calm
- Fenton Reaction. How do you process iron? Iron can be either good for you or inflammatory!
- Gut histamine and Oxalates. Do you have joint pain, gut issues, food allergies, food intolerances?
- NOX, Mast Cells. Do you have MCAS-Mast Cell Activation
- EMF sensitivity
- Heme Pathway and Sulfites
*If you have already performed a 23&me test we can work with your raw data.
Genetic evaluation can be a wonderful tool if you are seeking to optimize your health and wellbeing. It can be used to create an individually-tailored diet and nutritional program. It can especially be useful if you are struggling with a chronic condition as it can give us clues as to some of the root causes involved. For a complete genetic evaluation, please contact our office for further evaluation.