myDNA Genes Covered
The following genes are included within the scope of this test report:
Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular health refers to the overall well-being of the heart and blood vessels. Conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), including artery blockage (atherosclerosis), are characterised by the buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances on the walls of arteries. This process narrows and hardens the arteries, reducing blood flow to vital organs and increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other complications. Contributing factors to poor cardiovascular health include high levels of LDL cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, chronic inflammation, high blood pressure, smoking, and insulin resistance.
Metabolic Health & Weight Management
Metabolic health and weight management encompass the body’s ability to efficiently convert food into energy while maintaining a healthy balance of hormones, blood sugar, and lipid levels. Common metabolic conditions include type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, liver disease, and obesity, all of which are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses. Poor metabolic health can result in weight gain, fatigue, and difficulty maintaining energy balance. Key contributors include a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, hormonal imbalances, and chronic inflammation.
Nutrition & Gut Health
Genes such as HLA, PEMT, MTR, and LCT can dictate how your body handles specific foods, potentially leading to conditions like lactose intolerance, inflammatory bowel disease, and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Genetic variations such as VDR, PEMT, and MTR can also lead to vitamin deficiencies or malabsorption issues, impacting your overall well-being. These imbalances can cause digestive discomfort, nutrient absorption, and inflammation. The myDNA Comprehensive Check can help pinpoint these variations, guiding you to make smarter dietary choices.
Psychological & Emotional Wellbeing
Emotional and psychological health is controlled by neurotransmitters, hormones, and neural networks in the brain, which regulate mood, stress, and emotional responses. Genetic factors and clinical biomarkers can impact neurotransmitter and hormone levels contributing to problems like anxiety, depression and stress. The PEMT gene affects brain health, while the COMT gene influences the breakdown of dopamine, affecting mood and cognitive function. Variants in these genes can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. The myDNA Comprehensive Check can help you understand these genetic factors, guiding you toward optimal mental and emotional well-being.
Cognitive Function
Cognitive function relies on neural connections and the interplay of neurotransmitters, hormones, and other brain chemicals. These elements influence stress responses, mental alertness, focus, motivation, memory, learning, and problem-solving. Factors such as genetic variations (e.g. in the PEMT, COMT, and APOE genes), elevated homocysteine levels, vitamin B12 deficiency, poor sleep, lack of exercise, and chronic stress can negatively impact cognitive performance. The myDNA Comprehensive Check identifies genetic predispositions in these areas, aiding in assessing risks for cognitive decline and chronic inflammation.
Stability & Strength
Strength, stability, and athletic performance rely on the coordinated function of muscles, joints, and bones to support movement and endurance. Bone health plays a crucial role in this balance, as strong bones provide the necessary framework for muscle attachment and joint stability. Weak bones, due to conditions like osteoporosis or low bone density, can increase the risk of fractures and limit physical performance. Similarly, muscle weakness, joint instability, or poor flexibility can compromise overall stability and performance.
Immune Health & Inflammation
Immune health plays a vital role in protecting the body from infections and maintaining overall balance, while inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or illness. However, chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation can lead to the development of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease. These conditions arise when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing persistent pain, fatigue, and other health complications.
Hormone & Reproductive Health
Hormone & Reproductive Health refers to the balance of hormones that regulate the reproductive system, influencing fertility, menstrual cycles, and overall reproductive function. Hormonal imbalances, such as irregular levels of oestrogen, progesterone, or testosterone, can lead to conditions like infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis. Maintaining hormone balance through lifestyle changes, nutrition, stress management, and, if necessary, medical intervention can support reproductive health and fertility.