(and not just because I’m angry 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 the 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 myself MyDNAge Test Results. It took a while for my thoughts to sink in because it was a little salty at first. I’ll share why below, as well as how this test works. I’m not including a reference link because I’m not sure I’d recommend this one. I had a much better experience and feel like I got more useful data from InsideTracker.
I really feel like home lab testing is the future and that we will see more advanced methods and data in the future, which is very exciting! In the era of personalized health, understanding our genetic makeup has become a powerful tool for optimizing well-being. MyDNAge takes this concept to the next level by providing information about the very fabric of our being: our DNA.
why I didn’t like the MyDNage test
How MyDNage works
MyDNA It uses advanced technology to analyze specific markers within your DNA associated with the aging process. The science behind this process lies in the examination of specific regions known as epigenetic markers. These markers provide a unique snapshot of how your genes are expressed over time, offering insight into the biological age of your cells.
The process involves:
DNA collection:
MyDNAge requires a blood sample, using a homemade finger prick. (More on this in Cons lol)
Epigenetic analysis:
The collected DNA is then subjected to sophisticated epigenetic analyses. This involves examining specific chemical modifications to the DNA molecule, known as methyl groups, which play a crucial role in regulating gene activity.
Age determination:
By analyzing epigenetic markers, MyDNAge estimates the biological age of your cells. This information provides a personalized, data-driven perspective on how your body ages 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 Perspectives:
The service provides recommendations based on your genetic profile, offering information on lifestyle factors that could influence the aging process.
Disease risk assessment:
Some genetic markers may be associated with a higher or lower risk of certain diseases, offering a proactive approach to disease prevention.
Advantages of MyDNAgePersonalized Insights:
Rapid intervention:
Understanding potential health risks early on allows for proactive lifestyle adjustments, promoting preventive health measures.
Cons of MyDNage
Delay in blood collection and results:
The test comes with a lancet and a small tube. You are supposed to prick your finger and connect the small tube to your finger so the blood can pass through the tube. I pricked my finger, pressed the small tube against it and the blood did NOT go into the thin tube. It just spilled out and caused a mess. I ended up having their venous kit delivered to my doctor’s office so my PCP could draw my blood. Additionally, it took 89 years (6-8 weeks) to receive the results, which seemed like an eternity.
Limited predictive power:
While MyDNAge offers valuable information, its ability to predict future health outcomes is not foolproof, as genetics interact with several environmental factors. The thing about genes is that they are not our destiny. They can provide great insights, BUT you can have tremendous power over how genes are expressed.
Emotional impact:
Learning about possible health risks can have emotional implications. It is essential to approach the results with a balanced mindset and take these things with a grain of salt.
Delivery of results:
As a holistic health coach, I love analyzing data and test results. As much as I do this in my daily life, I find the results quite confusing. He told me what genetic variations I have (I wasn’t surprised to learn I have MTHFR), but I didn’t feel like he gave me very personalized recommendations. The recommendations were incredibly basic: make sure you exercise daily, eat fresh produce, focus on sleep, meaning everything I’m already doing, and also the things you all know you should do for optimal health.
He also didn’t provide lifestyle suggestions if you’re having trouble achieving these basics. InsideTracker does a much better job with personalized recommendations (“here’s why you should consume 1 to 3 servings of beans per day. You need to increase your fatty fish intake. If you avoid alcohol, here’s how it will help you,” etc.)
Revolutionary.
I was also disappointed to learn that the age of my cells is 40 years. I’m turning 40 in November and I feel like I do positive things for my health every day. It was a little frustrating seeing this number and the fact that I am in the 53rd percentile for my age. I’m FAR from perfect, but I feel like I make a consistent effort to check off the major boxes each day. Did it make me feel like improving drastically from here would be unattainable in everyday life? Also, why weren’t my numbers good? He did not tell me.
Cost considerations:
MyDNage services come at a price. This test costs around $500, but I won it through a Equivida contest. People must weigh the cost against the perceived benefits.
As with any genetic testing service, it is essential to approach the results with a balanced perspective, considering both the rich information provided and the potential emotional impact.
In the end, MyDNAge drops the ball. I think it has incredible potential, but I was not impressed with 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 that’s the case, you may want to have someone who is certified perform the test with you.)
Although this is a bomb for me, for now I definitely recommend Insidetracker. My referral link gives you a 20% discount!
Have you done any of these tests? If you are interested in functional testing (with someone to review the results with you), you can apply here.
xo
gina
