Nutrigenomics
Nutrigenomics Testing in Vienna, VA
Featuring Nutrition Genomics
Through our extensive experience in treating chronic diseases, we’ve discovered the pivotal role genetics play in the body’s metabolism of foods, medications, and supplements. Consequently, while a particular therapy may be effective for a majority, individual genetic variations can render it ineffective or even harmful for certain individuals.
Why is it important to understand your genetics?
- Genetic variants are more common than we have previously thought.
- More than 75% of all patients have significant genetic weaknesses (SNPs) in the most important nutritional metabolism pathways.
- With genetic variants in key metabolism pathways, food, supplements and medications are not metabolized in the expected way, leading to imbalances that potentially have an adverse impact on health.
Examples of Genetic Weaknesses
If someone has a genetic weakness in their immune system, they might struggle to appropriately respond to threats that trigger inflammatory responses. For example, a specific gene variation called SNP CTLA4 serves as an “off switch” for inflammatory signals. If someone has a weakness in this gene, they can’t effectively turn off inflammation, which can spiral out of control, especially when faced with triggers like stress, vaccines, infections, or toxins.
Another example is a gene variant called C677T, which affects the methylation process (MTHFR). This process is crucial for producing methylfolate, a substance that helps generate energy, ATP, and important neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA. When someone’s methylation capability is reduced due to this variant, they may experience low energy, fatigue, and various other symptoms because they can’t produce enough neurotransmitters. This gene mutation significantly impacts quality of life and is heavily researched. For many patients, a genetic methylation test can provide valuable insights.
Our providers specialize in treating patients with these gene variants, helping them optimize their health while addressing other health issues they may have.
What is nutrigenomics?
The definition of nutrigenomics is the scientific study of individualized genetics and nutrition and nutritional genomics testing identifies a patient’s genetic protein variations and sites of metabolic weakness. These key protein variations are involved in enzyme conversion, nutritional delivery and signaling pathways in the cell.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most common type of genetic variation and can affect a patient’s ability to regain and maintain their metabolic functionality. Abnormalities in specific SNPs can negatively affect many physiological and metabolic processes.
It’s important to understand that having a genetic variant doesn’t necessarily mean someone will get sick. It simply means they have a higher likelihood of developing a condition if they’re exposed to certain environmental factors. Think of a genomic SNP like a crack in a bridge’s foundation. With nutrigenomic testing, we can spot these cracks before they lead to disease. Then, by tailoring treatment specifically to each person’s genetic makeup, we can help them steer clear of illness.
Treating Genetic Weaknesses
We’ve partnered with GX Sciences for nutrigenomic testing because they’re backed by extensive scientific research and on the leading-edge of medicine. Their approach enables us to target the most impactful SNPs affecting patient health. Notably, GX’s Chief Medical Science Officer, Dr. Kendal Stewart, is a world-renowned specialist in Otolaryngology, Neurotology, and Neuro-immunology. His pioneering work in nutrigenomics has propelled GX to a leading position in the field. Specifically, GX assists us in:
Determine each patient’s unique genetic-based metabolic weaknesses
Determine which of the SNPs are material and therefore need to be supported
Provide a science-based algorithm that guides our providers to the targeted interventions, supplements and the proper timing of delivery
Furthermore, Gx is using the latest research with their Nobel Prize winning research. Read more here.
Comprehensive Initial Assessment with Foundation Genetics $900 (includes the nutrigenomics test cost)
After registering for this assessment, we’ll send you a genetic kit for you to swab and submit directly to the lab. Foundation genetics is for our well patients seeking to optimize their health, and it includes 22 SNPs that cover methylation (MTHFR and related variants), vitamin D transport, detoxification weakness, mitochondrial weakness and some immune SNPs. When the results are back, you will meet with our Medical Director for 2 hours to review your lab and genetic results, discuss your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Note that that pricing for this option assumes that you have insurance to cover the standard blood labs.
Foundation Genetics Only- $425 with 30-minute visit to review genetic report only
This option is for patients that want the nutrigenomics report only along with a 30-minute visit to review the result. This option includes genetic recommendations but will not include a detailed treatment plan discussion since we will not have labs to provide the necessary context.
Pharmacogenomics Testing Only - $450 with 30-minute visit to review report only
This option is for patients that want the pharmacogenetics report along with a 30-miute visit to review the results. This option does not include a detailed treatment plan discussion.
What is Personalized Precision Medicine?
Personalized precision medicine tailors treatment to your unique genetic profile, lab results, and symptoms, delivering the correct medications, targeted nutraceuticals, and dietary advice. For instance, addressing a methylation deficiency and inflammation requires a specific sequence. Adding methylfolate without first addressing inflammation could worsen the condition, akin to baking a cake without following the correct order of ingredients—it won’t yield the desired outcome.
Personalized precision medicine extends beyond identifying genetic weaknesses and preventing disease; it also optimizes medication benefits and minimizes adverse effects using Pharmaco Genomic testing (PGx). PGx analyzes how genetic variations affect drug responses, predicting adverse events or poor drug efficacy. Understanding drug-gene interactions is crucial, as genetic differences in metabolism can lead to heightened drug concentrations and increased risks of side effects, especially in slow metabolizers. Pharmacogenomics examines how individual genes influence medication responses, akin to studying drug-drug interactions. With our partner GxSciences, we offer a PGx report which we may use to recommend medications. You can also share it with your PCP and other providers to optimize treatment decisions. This report not only aids in selecting the right medication but also in determining optimal dosing based on your genetic metabolism, whether you’re a fast or slow metabolizer.
