What I Learned From My Results

 

“most importantly, armed with my [genetic] results,

I now have a better understanding

of my current health – and how to improve it”

 

Genetic testing provides insights into our individual health in ways that simply weren’t available to previous generations. As the technology has matured and becomes affordable there has been a proliferation of genetic tests available for consumers to chose from. The question is, how do we decide which test to use?

At Brio, we wanted a test that would not only identify an individual’s unique genetic traits but also provide results that were immediately applicable to their daily health habits. Given our current understanding of how genetics interact with environmental stressors (see My Journey to Genetic Testing) we wanted a test that could answer the following questions for ourselves and for our patients.

How do I adjust my diet and exercise to improve the outcomes and functionality of my genetics?

What can I do to cultivate the healthiest expression of my genes instead of an expression of illness or disease?

test results

Of the tests we’ve evaluated, the Nutrigenomix test has been the best in providing practical answers to these questions. The Nutrigenomix panel tests 45 of the most well studied genetic markers related to the way our bodies uniquely metabolize nutrients. This test looks specifically at our nutrient deficiency risks, lactose and gluten intolerances and how certains diets and patterns of exercise will affect weight loss and overall health. This test is not for ancestry or predisposition to specific diseases. We prefer this test because the results are directly applicable to making daily health decisions.

Test Benefits:

  • Discover which nutrients you’re more likely to be deficient in
  • Find out your risk of lactose intolerance and gluten intolerance
  • How does caffeine affect YOUR heart health: Is moderate coffee consumption increasing your risk of heart attack?
  • Find out dietary modifications that can improve body composition and heart health

The 45 Genetic Markers Tested (& my results)

The following sections list the various genetic markers tested by the Nutrigenomix test and what I learned about my specific genetics.

Nutrient Metabolism

The genetic markers identified in this section indicate how well our body metabolizes (or makes use of) the following vitamins and nutrients.

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin E
  • Folate
  • Iron
  • Calcium

I found out that I am at higher risk for being deficient in Vitamin A, B12, C, D, folate, iron and calcium compared to others. This has prompted me to make sure I regularly get extra servings of vegetables and other nutrient-dense foods. I also double checked my current supplements to make sure I’m taking certain nutrients in their proper/active forms. Lastly, it prompted me to test my current Vitamin D status to see how much I need to supplement (it’s just the beginning of darker days!)

Foods in Relation to Heart Health

Genetic markers in this section indicate if we have a higher risk of being affected by any of the following foods known to affect heart health.

  • Caffeine
  • Whole Grains
  • Sodium
  • Omega 3 Fat
  • Saturated Fat

Weight Management & Body Composition

The test also gives us insight into what factors are most effective in changing weight and body composition. 

  • Energy balance
  • Physical Activity
  • High Protein Diet
  • Total Fat
  • Saturated and Unsaturated Fat
  • Monounsaturated Fat

My Energy Balance is diminished, meaning my resting metabolic rate is about 10% lower than others. This is an important consideration when considering my calorie needs for weight loss.

Food Intolerance

Are you lactose or gluten intolerant? The genetic markers tested in this section will let you know your risk of each.

  • Lactose
  • Gluten

Based on my history, I can’t say I was surprised to see that I have an elevated risk of lactose intolerance! 9 out of 10 Asians have the gene variant for lactose intolerance. Because this is a genetic test, results are the consistent even if you have already eliminated lactose from your diet.

Eating Habits

Genetic markers in this section identify your predisposition or tendencies toward certain taste preferences or eating behaviors.

  • Fat taste perception
  • Sugar preferences
  • Eating between meals
  • Starch

Fitness & Physical Activity

Interestingly genetic testing can indicate your predisposition towards certain types of activity and other physical attributes.

  • Motivation to Exercise
  • Exercise Behaviour
  • Power & Strength
  • Endurance
  • Pain Tolerance
  • Achilles Tendon Injury salmon

From personal and clinical experience I know that disease risks are often things we can’t “feel” like fatty liver and heart disease. It was fascinating to get this rare glimpse of my health risks – some were suspected, others completely unexpected. But most importantly, armed with my results, I now have a better understanding of my current health – and how to improve it.

At Brio, we’re always looking for ways to inspire and accelerate improvements in health from the “ground up” with nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress, identifying risks and obstacles to recovery. This means we dig deeper to understand each individual’s health. We are so excited to announce genetic testing to take this personalized medicine to the next level.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Nutrigenomix Test or would like to get a clearer picture of your individual health through genetic testing don’t hesitate to contact Brio for an appointment.

Join us Wednesday, November 15, 2017 for a presentation on The Top 3 Lab Tests You Need For YOUR Best Nutrition – we’ll chat about the Nutrigenomix test and other tests for personalized nutrition at its best. Call Brio to reserve your seat.

 

In health,

Dr. Carin Matsushita

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