Genetic testing for health and wellness: the ins, outs and (most importantly) the why’s.
You’re an average person, trying to do the best you can with the genes your parents gave you. But how do you know how to get the most out of your body? The answer is genetic testing.
Nutrigenomics is the science of understanding the relationship between the human genome, human nutrition and health. By understanding the genes, scientists can tease out the critical portions relating to factors like exercise responsiveness, vitamin uptake and metabolism, possible allergies or sensitivities and response to food types.
Genetic factors determine between 40% to 70% of an individual’s BMI, so it is important to know what your genes map out for you.
What does this mean? A high quality comprehensive analysis, through carefully selected genetic review combined with your personal factors called epigenetics (like what medications you are taking), will give you a roadmap to having the best possible chance at achieving your optimum wellness level, without randomly trying different diets, supplements and exercise hacks.
Scientists understand that genes work together, so looking at a single gene is not going to get you the comprehensive answer that you need, you need to look at the whole picture. Imagine being outside a room, looking through the keyhole. Yes, you’ll get an idea of what’s in the room, but it doesn’t compare to standing in the room and looking around.
Nutrigenomic assays, with only a handful of genes included, are unlikely to give you the full and detailed view that you need to make informed lifestyle choices to improve your wellness. Choose a genomic test that is going to be able to understand the interplay between genes, one that analyses many genes and which reviews multiple metabolic pathways.

Another consideration is that your epigenetics change over time, while your genes don’t. If you are suddenly prescribed a new medication, or develop a new chronic condition, or become pregnant, the recommendations from your genetic report need to be updated to take these factors into account. Make sure the genomics test you choose has lifetime reviews if anything changes with your personal circumstances. Reports should also be regularly revised, since the science of Nutrigenomics is an evolving one, and scientists are learning more about the human genome every year.
Reports generated through a nutrigenomic test should include information on your optimal dietary type, what foods you metabolise well, and those you should avoid. They should also include what type of exercise would be most beneficial for you. Your report would ideally include a suggested list of personalised supplements to correct any potential imbalances in your vitamin and mineral requirements.
Before investing in a Nutrigenomic test, do your research:
- How many genes are tested?
- Are Epigenetics taken into consideration?
- Is a comprehensive report generated?
- Will the report be updated over time?
- What recommendations are included for diet type, foods and exercise?
- Are supplements tailored to your needs?
NutriGen™ from Fagron Genomics analyses 128 genes, resulting in 384 genetic variations. That’s the most relevant variations when personalising a wellness plan, and almost four times as many as some other tests.
Reports are stored in a secure online platform, and updates are regularly conducted to ensure that the information is current and valid. Updated reports are available at no charge for as long as you wish to get them. The Genetic Report includes a diet plan, comprehensive food list, vitamin and mineral imbalances, sensitivities, possible allergies and an exercise recommendation. It also includes a supplement plan, with dosages based on your individual requirements.
The Nutrigen™ test is a true once-in-a-lifetime test, making it an investment in your current and future self, and a holistic way to plan your wellness journey.
Contact us or visit the Nutrigen™ website to be directed to a Nutrigen™ partner in your area.