Genomics study helps you understand your health risks early and make informed choices for mitigation. This can go
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on to build healthy habits and to achieve health goals.
GENOMICS 101
The first question that comes to the mind is – What is this new technology and how does it work? Genomics is the analysis of your genome, your unique DNA sequence that governs your health, habits, metabolism, physiology and psyche. Advances in technology have made it possible to read the whole or parts of an individual’s DNA sequence. Experts analyze your DNA for variants at specific locations that can affect health and wellbeing. This information can be used to predict your risk for a particular disease, to diagnose a condition, to optimize treatment, or to move to a healthy lifestyle!
Understand Risks with Personal Genomics
With a simple swab of saliva, a personal genomics test can give you a complete profile of your genetic predisposition to health and lifestyle. While the genetic component does not change, factors such as environment, habits, and lifestyle can be modified to mitigate any genetic risks. Many people opt for comprehensive genomics service which predicts individual’s genetic risk for 100+ health conditions, physiological traits, lifestyle, beauty and response to drugs. There are also tests like the BRCA gene test that Angelina Jolie took to understand her genetic risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, which enabled her to make life-changing informed choices to prevent that risk from manifesting.
Weight Loss Genetics – A Case for Personal Genomics
Cutting down calories and physical activity are just two aspects of a successful weight loss program. There are other aspects – lean vs. fat mass, appetite and satiety levels, food interactions within your system, and genetic makeup that have an impact on weight loss. Our genes have a significant role in functions such as fat tissue metabolism, excess fat storage, transport, brain signaling, and energy conversion. Individuals with certain variants of a specific gene have to work harder to burn calories than their luckier friends. Sports nutrition, athletic profile, vitamin levels, and bone health have a strong genetic component. Some people have a tendency to regain weight more easily. Assessment of such factors can enhance the efficacy of weight management programs, through personalized guidelines. Nutritionists often recommend genetic tests in order to recommend the most suitable diet and exercise plan for weight loss. They work in tandem with genetic counselors.
Genetic Counselling to Know Yourself
It is not easy for a layman to predict hereditary risk for a particular condition or to interpret findings from a genetic report. Genetic counselors help you understand your health history and family history, and guide you in making informed choices towards better health. They explain your genetic report, correlate this information with your health history, and formulate a preventive action plan that works for you.
Overcoming Fear
It is said that answers can be found by one who seeks, but there are many who are scared to find out what their genes say. While this is a personal choice, one should remember that screening and predictive testing could actually enable prevention and early treatment at much lower costs – financial and emotional. A session with a genetic counselor can be a good starting point.
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