DNA Testing

'Nutrigenomics' is a relatively new scientific discipline as a result of the Human Genome project which means that we now understand how our own genetic variations respond to diet, exercise and lifestyle, all of which can cause our genes to be 'expressed’ in a different way. This is exciting because it now means we can personalise nutritional and lifestyle plans unlike ever before.

Understanding what our own DNA is up to can be a very useful tool in both ensuring we follow the right diet and lifestyle plan to stay healthy but also in helping us to get the best out of any weight loss or exercise plan.

All of us have small differences in the information that our DNA contains (called SNiPs), and it’s these differences that make each of us unique. Some of us have SNiPS which mean we don't metabolise fats or carbohydrates very well, or that show our liver doesn't clear toxins as well as it should, or that we are predisposed to inflammation or more sensitive to caffeine, alcohol, dairy etc.

But contrary to popular belief, whilst genes do provide us with certain predispositions, research tells us it is possible to alter our genetics, depending on our environment, for example the toxins we are exposed to, whether we smoke, drink or exercise and of course what we eat.

What this means is that we can effectively regulate or control our genes and in some cases switch them on or off completely, by making the right adjustments to diet (sometimes supported by supplements) and lifestyle. This in turn can result in the possibility of preventing certain disease processes.