(and not just because I’m disappointed with my results)
Hello friends! How are you; Did you have a good weekend? What did you do for the Super Bowl? We went to an amazing event – I’ll share details on Friday Faves – and the family came to see the Usher concert. I mean the football game. 😉
For today’s post, I’m finally ready to talk about mine MyDNAge test results. It took me a while to marinate in my thoughts because at first, I was a little salty. I’ll share why below, in addition to how this test works. I am not including a referral link because I am not sure if I am recommending this link. I had a much better experience and feel I got more useful data from InsideTracker.
I really feel that home lab testing is the future and we will see more advanced methods and data in the future which is very exciting! In the age of personalized health, understanding our genetic makeup has become a powerful tool for optimizing wellness. MyDNAge takes this concept to the next level by providing insights into the very fabric of our being – our DNA.
because I didn’t like the MyDNAge test
How MyDNAge works
MyDNAge uses advanced technology to analyze specific markers in your DNA associated with the aging process. The science behind this process lies in examining specific regions known as epigenetic markers. These markers provide a unique snapshot of how your genes are expressed over time, offering a glimpse into the biological age of your cells.
The process includes:
DNA collection:
MyDNAge requires a blood sample, via a finger prick at home. (More on this in the Cons section lol)
Epigenetic Analysis:
The collected DNA is then subjected to complex epigenetic analysis. This involves looking at specific chemical modifications to the DNA molecule, known as methyl groups, which play a critical role in regulating gene activity.
Age determination:
By analyzing epigenetic markers, MyDNAge calculates the biological age of your cells. This information provides a personalized and data-driven perspective on how your body is aging at the cellular level.
Information provided by MyDNAge
Biological age:
MyDNAge reveals your biological age, offering a more accurate reflection of your overall health compared to chronological age.
Lifestyle Insights:
The service provides recommendations based on your genetic profile, offering insights into lifestyle factors that could affect the aging process.
Disease Risk Assessment:
Certain genetic markers may be associated with increased or decreased risk of certain diseases, offering a proactive approach to disease prevention.
Benefits of MyDNAgePersonalized Insights:
Early intervention:
Early understanding of potential health risks allows proactive lifestyle adjustments, promoting preventive health measures.
Cons of MyDNAge
Delay in blood collection and results:
The test comes with a scalpel and a small tube. You are supposed to prick your finger and attach the small tube to your finger so that blood can pass through the tube. I pricked my finger, pressed the tiny tube against it, and the blood was NOT going into the tiny tube. He just went all out and made a mess. I ended up picking up their IV kit at my office so my PCP could draw my blood. It also took 89 years (6-8 weeks) to get the results, which seemed like an eternity.
Limited Predictive Power:
While MyDNAge offers valuable insights, its ability to predict future health outcomes is not foolproof, as genetics interact with various environmental factors. The thing about genes is that they are not our destiny. They can give great insights BUT you can have enormous power over how genes are expressed.
Emotional impact:
Learning about potential health risks can have an emotional impact. It’s important to approach results with a balanced mindset and take these things with a grain of salt.
Delivery of results:
As a holistic health coach, I love looking up data and test results. As much as I do this in my daily life, I’ve found the results quite confusing. He told me what genetic variants I have – I wasn’t surprised to learn I have MTHFR – but I didn’t feel like he gave very personalized recommendations. The recommendations were incredibly basic: make sure you exercise daily, eat fresh produce, focus on sleep, known and all the things I already do and the things you all know you need to do for optimal health.
He also didn’t give any lifestyle suggestions if you’re having trouble with these basics. InsideTracker does a much better job with tailored recommendations (“here’s why you should eat 1-3 servings of beans a day. You should increase your consumption of oily fish. If you’re avoiding alcohol, here’s how it will help” etc.)
Revolutionary.
I was also disappointed to find out that my cell age is 40. I will be 40 in November and I feel like I am doing positive things for my health every day. It was kind of defeating to see that number and the fact that I’m in the 53rd percentile for my age. I’m far from perfect, but I feel like I’m making a constant effort to check the main boxes every day. It kind of made me feel like it would be impossible for everyday life to drastically improve from here? Also, why weren’t my numbers great? He didn’t tell me.
Cost Considerations:
MyDNAge services come at a price. This test is about $500, but I beat it through one EquiLife contest. Individuals should weigh the costs against the perceived benefits.
As with any genetic testing service, it is important to approach the results with a balanced perspective, considering both the empowering information provided and the potential emotional impact.
Finally, MyDNAge drops the ball. I think it has incredible potential, but I wasn’t thrilled with the delivery of the results or the action steps associated with the results. I think I’ll learn how to dive into this test with High Performance Health, so if that’s the case, I’m excited to take another look. (Also, if this is the case, you might want someone who is certified to actually take the test with you!)
Although this is a bomb for me, for now, I definitely recommend Insidetracker. My referral link gives you 20% off!
Have you taken any of these tests? If you are interested in functional testing (with someone to review the results for you), you can apply here.
xo
Gina
