The Benefits of Testing Your Genetics

March 25, 2021

In fairly recent years, individuals around the globe have used genetic testing to better understand their family history or to determine if they are at risk of developing a certain disease based on DNA variants. Through genetic testing, specifically single nucleotide polymorphisms, frequently called SNPs (pronounced “snips”), individuals can have a better understanding of their health and wellbeing and seek out the necessary treatments to feel better.

Keep reading to learn more about genetic testing and to find out if SNPs testing is for you.

What are SNPs?

SNPs are the protein codes that show us the variants. Research has been done and is being done comparing genes of individuals with health conditions and the corresponding DNA of a “normal” population. Knowing individual SNPs can help guide recommendations to support genetic weakness or these variants.

SNPs testing allows patients and their doctors to gain a better understanding of what’s happening on a genetic and cellular level in their body. Completed in 2012, The 1000 Genomes Project and its accompanying research, allowed the scientific community to identify the physical and functional standpoint of specific gene mutations. This project and continuing research has helped scientists and doctors determine which SNPs (mutations) are harmful and which are not a concern to your health. When a patient has SNPs testing, doctors can focus their attention on genetic mutations.

Who would benefit from genetic testing?

Individuals who suffer from a range of health issues including, chronic fatigue, arthritis, hormone issues, anxiety, sleep disorders, immune weakness and many more could benefit from being tested for SNPs.

Also, individuals who want to get pregnant, optimize sports performance, slow the aging process, boost immune system function and improve focus, attention, and memory should also consider genetic testing.

Can children benefit from the results?

Yes. The best time to address issues that are genetic in origins are at an early age, but it is never too late to start. We have performed testing on two-day-old babies and folks in their late 80’s. This data can provide you with exactly what you need to do to support your individual condition and optimize your health at any age.

How is the test done?

The test is collected in our office and sent to a US lab and is totally safe and confidential. It simply involves swabbing inside your cheeks to collect DNA. After the results are back in 10-14 business days, we will analyze the findings and then schedule you with an appointment to go over in detail the results.

At Integrative Wellness we educate our patients about every detail of their test results and approach those results with precise recommendations based on your health goals. We believe that healthcare should not be a “one size fits all” approach, and we’re ready to help better your health through natural treatments, supplements and various modalities of integrative and functional medicine.

Reach out to us today for more information.

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