Dieting is mostly an unending cycle of losing weight momentarily and regaining it within a few weeks. There are numerous diet plans in existence each with different success stories (or stories of utter failure). The question which consistently baffles dieters is “which diet plan suits me best and which will work?” Nothing is more disheartening than rigorous and careful dieting efforts all in vain. The reply to the question posed may probably lie in your DNA. Latest innovations and discoveries in genetics and DNA testing have revealed that the best diet is that which is suited to the personal DNA makeup of a given individual.
Scientific studies have revealed that the requirement of each human body varies according to ones genes. The knowledge and understanding of this concept may aid in selecting the best diet plan that complements your genetic makeup. A perfect diet tailored to your genes can ensure effective weight loss and also aid in the maintaining of fitness levels in the long run. Research revealed that participants who were given a diet suited to their DNA lost weight better and faster than those who did not use a diet which complements their DNA. This method of dieting by combining foods with DNA in order to promote health and weight loss is known as nutrigenomics.
Nutrigenomics, also known as a DNA diet, is an emerging branch of science. This young science tries to mix nutrition with DNA by testing genes to confirm whether our bodies are able to break down and efficiently metabolize certain molecules or not. These tests verify the manner in which our body interacts with certain foods on a molecular level.
Process of nutrigenomics
Till recently, direct to consumer gene testing was restricted to the prediction of risk factors for various hereditary ailments and diseases. The market for health genetic predispositions tests however, never quite took on. Now, new innovations have extended the usage of the test to formulate a balanced diet plan. Many nutrition experts in diet clinics are encouraging their clients to undergo DNA testing in order to develop a tailor-made diet plan for their DNA which will help dramatically augment weight loss and ward off any associated illnesses.
For example, a huge number of us unknowingly suffer for celiac disease. We often experience mild side effects which we may not even be aware of. Further to this, the fact that we consume gluten throughout our lives, means that we may become entirely oblivious to the side effects. We thus often continue to consume gluten-containing products despite our inability to properly metabolize gluten. The result is unwittingly damaging the lining of our small intestine, fatigue, feeling bloated and a range of other symptoms. The disease is associated with HLA class II genes known as HLA-DQ2 andHLA-DQ8 l. At least one of these genes is present in people with celiac disease although other genes and genetic markers are linked to the condition. Another example is how different individuals are responsive to different types of fats – their responsiveness depends very much on their genome and thus, whilst some individuals’ genotypes respond well to diets high in omega 3 fatty acids (found in oily fish and nuts), others do not. This means that whilst some people will stick to their optimal weight or lose weight on a diet high in salmon, nuts, seeds, tuna, others who overindulge on these foods might experience very much the opposite.
Understanding the interaction between our genes, our individual genetic variations and the food we eat is crucial for any diet. This science is the merging of boundaries between medicine and dieting.
How are samples collected?
DNA testing for dieting is done by means of a simple DNA sampling method. For this test, analysis of epithelial cells is required. The sample can be collected by rubbing a buccal swab lightly against the inner surface of the mouth.
A dietician studies the report and prepares a diet plan based on the test outcomes. This test can help nutritional experts determine the right amount of nutrition, the type of food substrate needed, how well you are able to detoxify from toxins, the ideal exercise routine and the amount of exertion and duration, in order to maintain an optimum weight, your sensitivity to insulin and much more. This kind of diet and exercise plan evolved on the basis of how body genetics may assist in achieving weight management goals.
There is a plethora of online laboratories for DNA testing to be found but it is always advisable to conduct sufficient research to assess the genuineness of the lab and their nutritional consultancy.
Overview
Nutrigenomics is an evolving part of nutritional research that works to understand the correlation between the food items you eat, your DNA and the overall impact on your health. DNA testing for dieting can help healthcare professionals devise a personalized diet plan to reduce weight effectively and improve your overall health.
Article written by Karl M McDonald
Leave a Reply