Health and Genetic Testing
A few years ago, I had an amazing job title as DNA Scientist I. Sounds cool, right? Unfortunately, the company I worked for got bought out and we pretty much lost our jobs. Working in a DNA lab was as cool as you think! So when HomeDNA contacted me to try their Healthy Weight DNA test, I was all in.
What is HomeDNA Healthy Weight?
HomeDNA™ Healthy Weight is a scientifically-based weight- management test and program that identifies your unique genetic makeup and provides diet and exercise strategies specifically tailored to your genotype. A kit contains easy to follow instructions, a cheek swab and return envelope. You can buy the kit online or at CVS. The results usually take around one week to return once the receive your swabs.
Your results will include a lengthy report that examines your DNA and checks it for certain genetic markers connected to your weight, metabolism and body type. You then have essential information you can use to tailor a weight-loss program that can achieve real results. Unlike diet books and pre-packaged meal plans, the fitness program created by results of DNA testing can offer customized solutions to help you realize a healthy weight since it’s based on your unique genetic information.
My Results
First of all, the report was extensive and lengthy (75 pages). Instead of boring you with all the details of my report, I want to share what I loved about the report and some of the ways I've incorporated the results into my everyday life.
1. Thoroughness -
One of the hardest things I had to do when I worked at the DNA lab is explain genetics to clients who have no scientific background. This is why I appreciate how HomeDNA has taken the time to meticulously explain results in simple laymen terms. The report explains the following categories in 2-3 pages or more: Nutrients Weight Loss Ability
Food
Response to Exercise
Not only do they provide a detailed explanation of each category, they also provide a success strategy for each. 2. Speed The website says results would be received within two weeks. They came within one week and you conveniently receive a notice in your email to log in to their site to see your results. Results can be downloaded and comes in a PDF form.
3. Price
I think the price of the test ($99) is worth it's value. The report provides a wealth of information that I can use in later years to come.
How I've incorporated the results into everyday life
The genetic results indicated that I may have a chance of having slightly-reduced levels of Vitamin B9 (Folate) and Vitamin D. I've started to increase my intake of beans and broccoli because of this. I've also started to take more walks outdoor with Zoe during the afternoon to get some Vitamin D. I had no idea this was happening before I got these results.
Another interesting result I found out is that my genetic profile indicates that my fitness response to moderate-to-high-intensity cardio is below average. Which means I may be less likely to experience optimal cardiovascular fitness improvements from high-intensity cardio compared to others with a more favorable genotype. Good to know, since I always struggle with HIIT workouts. I much rather do PiYo, Barre or Yoga.
Overall, I've enjoyed reading my results and I'm super excited to incorporate more of what I've learned into health habits. I highly recommend this test if you want to see the connection between your genetics and health.
****Thank you to HomeDNA for providing the product to review. All opinions are my own.
