By Dr. Ben Prakasan
Director & Advisor in Preventive Healthcare
It was only a little over 70 years ago when the double helix structure was first discovered, but this has opened doors to a whole new world of wonders. The development of DNA testing, for one, has allowed us to explore our history, predict our future and unravel the secrets of our very existence.
In the realm of wellness today, DNA testing is quickly becoming a popular tool to help people live healthier lives. But what does our DNA have to do with our wellbeing?
A Blueprint of You
First, let’s get back to the basics. Cells are the building blocks of all living beings, helping our bodies to carry out various specialised functions. Almost all of the cells in the human body contain deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is basically an instruction manual containing the necessary information needed to build and maintain an organism.
DNA is passed down from our parents and is unique to each and every one of us (with the exception of identical twins). Inside them are genes, which control everything from our physical appearance to our risk for certain health conditions.
As such, DNA testing offers an avenue for scientists to decode our DNA to look for patterns in our genes that can give insights into things like our susceptibility to certain diseases, how we respond to certain medications or even how our bodies process nutrients.
Surging in Popularity
While DNA testing isn’t all that new, it has gained widespread popularity over the past couple of decades. In 2003, the Human Genome Project, which mapped the entire human genome, was declared completed. This made it easier to understand the genetic factors behind health, diseases and other traits. Over time, technological advancements have also deemed DNA testing faster, more accurate and more affordable, making it more accessible to a larger population.
Besides that, recent years have seen an increased interest in personalised wellness strategies coupled with curiosity about our ancestry and health risks. With a higher demand for solutions specific to our own unique bodies as opposed to generalised health tips, more people are turning to DNA testing for more accurate answers. Thanks to DNA testing, personalised health practices can now be based on a data-driven approach.
With the information derived from DNA tests, our healthcare professionals can then design customised nutritional, fitness or even treatment plans to cater to our unique needs and goals.
Here are some ways that DNA testing can help:
1. Understanding Health Risks
DNA testing can detect genetic disorders, chronic diseases with strong genetic components like diabetes, heart disease and dementia, and other diseases or conditions early. Awareness of our genetic predispositions to certain diseases and disorders gives us the opportunity to take preventive measures like regular screenings, lifestyle changes and early interventions to improve our health outcomes.
This is also a great tool for guiding prospective parents on their family planning decisions as they learn about potential genetic conditions that could be passed on to their children.
2. Nutritional Insights
DNA testing can provide information on how our bodies metabolise different nutrients like fats, carbohydrates and vitamins. By revealing how our genes affect our response to various foods, it becomes a helpful aid in the creation of a nutrition plan where we can make informed choices about our diet and maximise our health benefits according to our health goals.
3. Optimised Fitness Strategies
Due to our unique genetic makeup, each person’s body responds differently to exercise. Some of us might be naturally better at endurance activities while others might favour strength-based workouts. With DNA testing, we are able to identify the types of workouts that work best for our genetic profile so we can embark on the right type of fitness routine for our bodies.
4. Reaction to Medication
Did you know that your genes can also affect your response to some medications? As such, the information gleaned from DNA testing can help mitigate adverse reactions and ensure optimal efficacy and safety as your healthcare providers will be able to tailor your medication according to your genetic profile.
5. Mental Health and Wellbeing
Your DNA doesn’t just affect your physical health. It can also influence conditions like depression and anxiety and affect your response to stress. Uncovering genetic predispositions to these conditions can enable earlier and more targeted interventions and strategies to improve overall wellbeing.
6. Healthy Ageing
Genetics can play an important role in determining your lifespan. DNA testing could facilitate the adoption of effective practices, such as specific dietary, exercise and lifestyle habits, to promote healthy ageing.
In a world where wellness is becoming increasingly personalised, our DNA can be the ultimate first step towards a healthier, more informed life. Eager to discover what your DNA can reveal about you? Find out more about one of the most comprehensive DNA tests in the market today!
Get to know me:
Dr. Ben Prakasan is a seasoned expert in preventive healthcare and regenerative medicine. He advocates a holistic approach to wellness with a focus on diving into root causes.
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