Common Nutrigenomics Testing Questions
What are you testing exactly?
Our test is a genetic test and looks at DNA. Our reports highlight if you have any common genetic variations (SNPs) that occur in at least 1% of the population and result in differences in biological function, like nervous system function, hormone balance or detoxification, that can affect health. It doesn’t measure the products of those functions such as blood levels of hormones for example. Sometimes it can be useful to look at results of other types of test alongside nutrigenomic testing.
What does the test Involve?
The test is a simple, non-invasive mouth swab that is easy to do at home. The only requirement is to abstain from eating/drinking for at least 1 hour before testing. Simply collect a sample of cheek cells using the swab and place the sample and stabilising capsule in the tube provided (see How to do the test). Return with the signed consent form in the prepaid envelope (UK). There are no special storage or transport requirements and you can return any day. For international returns, the client is responsible for arranging and paying for return.
Who can be tested?
Anyone. Even children can be tested with a parent or guardian’s consent. When testing a child under 18 years of age a parent or guardian with parental responsibility for the child can provide consent on the child's behalf. Since our genes are fixed from birth, the age of testing makes no difference to the results. You only need to be tested once, because your genetics don’t change. What does change is what you do to help your genetics be less significant, and so improve our health.
Should I stop taking medication before taking the test?
The test won’t be affected by your diet, medical conditions or medications/supplements you are taking. The only requirement is to abstain from eating/drinking for at least 1 hour before testing.
Is my data safe?
We are really careful with your sensitive data, storing it securely, and protecting it using the highest industry standards. We hold the minimum client data for the minimum amount of time. Once received by Lifecode Gx, samples are allocated a barcode and all other client identification is removed. The test is used only to create the reports which are only shared with the authorised practitioner and Lifecode Gx senior staff. Each test is processed in our ISO certified UK laboratory and all samples are completely destroyed after 3 months. All client genotyping data is marked for destruction at 5 months and completely destroyed by 6 months. The client report, the data and the DNA sample is never (and will never be) shared with, or sold to third parties. All of the data extraction and analysis is done in the UK.
Is testing and interpretation accurate?
The genotyping methodology that we use is very accurate (at least 99.9%). Results that fail quality control are not reported and are shown on the report as a ‘no result’. The science behind our interpretation is fully referenced in each report. Our reports are reviewed regularly by our expert team to ensure they are up to date and clinically relevant.
Do you test for specific genetic conditions?
No. There are very specific genetic mutations that are extensive and highly predictive of a particular medical condition. These are the ones the NHS in the UK (or other healthcare providers) investigate for disease diagnosis. Lifecode Gx does not offer this type of testing and we suggest you talk your healthcare provider about accessing this, alongside any appropriate genetic counselling. However you might want to consider Nutrigenomics testing as well, as understanding how your body works as a whole (for example hormone balance, response to stress etc) could well be significant.