The mapping of the human genome brought tremendous opportunities for optimizing human health, but this flood of information has also led to more questions. Can genetic variations lead to long-term health consequences? How can these be bypassed? And, how can clinicians use genetic information to help people achieve their best health?
At OC Whole Family Wellness, we feel that genetic testing is at the forefront of individualized medicine. Scientific advances have allowed researchers to decipher the human genome and identify genetic variations in a way that is available to virtually anyone who wishes to better understand their genetic makeup and its impact upon their health and wellness.
Once you obtain your genetic data, you can become empowered to change the course of your health. As it turns out, you have a lot more control over your health than you might think. It is not just your genes directing the show, but how you care for your genes with environmental, dietary and lifestyle choices that can influence how your genes behave. In other words, you can change how your genes are expressed. Stress, diet, behavior, toxins and other factors may activate chemical switches that turn genes on and off and regulate gene expression. Several studies have shown that changes in lifestyle cause changes in gene expression.
There are many labs that we use for the genetic testing, including 23andMe. The genetic tests allow Dr. Harden to evaluate methylation and neurotransmission, mitochondrial function, bowel health, detoxification of chemicals, and immune system health. This sophisticated information supports a customized approach towards both treatment and risk reduction.
- Methylation Made Simple
- Methylation is a process that takes place in the body countless times per day. The term methyl refers to one carbon molecule attached to three hydrogen molecules and this powerful group of atoms is essential for many processes, like building and repairing DNA, clearing toxins and helping with nutrient absorption.
An individual’s genetic makeup helps determine how, and if, certain compounds and elements are methylated properly. Small genetic variations, known as Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (or SNPs) can greatly impact the methylation pathways and potentially contribute to negative long-term health consequences.
Dr. Harden researches and analyzes your DNA prior to your visit and presents a solution- focused nutritional plan to optimize the expression of your genes. She provides nutritional and supplemental support for all types of methylation SNP’s.