Nutritional Needs Test
To function properly, cells depend on the action of a vast number of genes. Our Nutritional Needs genetic test analyzes variations in several genes that influence how the body uses certain vitamins and micronutrients. The test identifies individuals who may have altered B vitamin-dependent metabolism or reduced response to oxidative stress. It analyzes two genes important to B vitamin utilization and four genes important in managing oxidative stress. This test may be able to identify individuals who might benefit from particular nutritional supplements and who may be at increased likelihood for health complications. This test is not intended to and does not diagnose a specific disease or assess a specific health condition. It is intended to provide information to individuals who are interested in knowledge that may help them make choices about the consumption of certain vitamins and anti-oxidants.
B-Vitamin Genes:
The genes analyzed in the B-Vitamin test produce proteins that regulate B-Vitamin metabolism. Genetic variations affect the ability of the proteins to carry out their specific function, such as converting one chemical to another, or the ability to transport nutrients into the body’s cells where they are needed.
Oxidative Stress Genes:
Variations in the genes analyzed in this panel involve the body’s protective antioxidant mechanisms that have been associated with a reduced ability to neutralize damaging free radicals. When these free radicals overwhelm the body’s ability to remove them, Oxidative Stress can occur, causing cell and tissue damage.
Research indicates that genetic variations that result in suboptimal B-vitamin metabolism and suboptimal management of oxidative stress can predispose an individual to diseases such as coronary heart disease, neural tube defects, and certain types of cancers. Thus our Nutritional Needs Test panel may help guide a person on decisions about use of vitamins and anti-oxidants.
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