Who Should Test Their Genes?

On the internet it seems like everyone cares about genetic testing and gene variants like MTHFR right now, but testing isn't necessary for everyone.

In this post, we'll explore when it is important to test your DNA, when it can benefit you the most, and also when it can be harmful.

Two Main Factors Determine Who Should Test Their Genes

1. Circumstances

2. Symptoms

Many Genes Are Actionable - Meaning You Can Change How They Affect Your Health.

Many common gene variants that have major health consequences can be acted on through what is known as epigenetics. Epigenetics is the science of how gene expression is influenced by nutrition, diet, stress, lifestyle, toxins, sleep, and other factors under your control. This means that even if your genes have elements in them that may have health consequences, you can prevent those consequences by taking the right actions.

In order to take the right actions for your genes, you do have to know what your genes look like in the first place, so if you suspect there are a few factors lurking in your genetics, then testing can give you a powerful tool to influence your health.

When Should You Absolutely Test Your Genes?

This is simple. These are the circumstances in which genetic testing can be truly helpful:

• Fertility and Pregnancy - Fertility is extremely time-sensitive. If you or your partner have had repeat miscarriages or you've been trying for six months to a year without success, then you and your partner should test your genes. Finding out about a gene SNP like MTHFR that strongly affects fertility and changes the prenatal supplements you should take matters to know so you can get your health right before you build and carry a healthy baby.

• Treatments for Depression or Anxiety aren't Working - this is a strong indicator that there is something underlying the issue that isn't being addressed, or that your genetics are interfering with the treatment. Testing your genes can point you to a more successful path forward with treatment-resistant mental illness.

• You Have a Strong Family History of Early Cardiac Death - In this scenario it is important to understand the genes related to clotting, to methylation, and to mineral balance so you can take steps to protect yourself. Sudden cardiac death might not be related to a gene variant likeMTHFR, but if it is, then knowing gives you something you can work on, instead of waiting for the ax to fall.

• You Have Many Seemingly Unrelated Symptoms - Widespread symptoms that don't seem to link together often have hidden causes in your genes. Understanding what is in the foundation of your health can help you find balance and relieve your symptoms.

Who Should Be Cautious About Genetic Testing

Testing your genes gives you boatloads of information, but if you struggle with health-related anxiety, that information can be damaging to your mental health. Your body is designed in exactly the way it should be for you, but if you know you will have a hard time maintaining perspective if you see gene variances or genes that may increase your susceptibility to major health issues like cancer or stroke, then it may be best for you not to test. It comes down to a very personal decision, and you have to make it with some understanding of your own strengths and weaknesses.