Published on: 14th July 2023
Medically reviewed by: Medical Director at First Response Healthcare
Medically reviewed by: Medical Director at First Response Healthcare
DNA test for weight loss usually refers to a genetic test intended to provide individualized weight management recommendations based on an individual’s genetic profile. DNA health testing for weight loss analyzes specific genetic variants called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with various aspects of metabolism, appetite regulation and nutrient processing.
The idea behind genetic testing for weight loss is that by understanding a person’s genetic makeup, diet and exercise plans can be adjusted to optimize weight loss and weight management efforts. The results of such tests can reveal factors such as metabolism, fat absorption, response to different types of exercise, and sensitivity to certain nutrients.
One of the biggest challenges fitness trainers face is making lasting, positive lifestyle changes for their clients. They repeatedly stress the importance of healthy eating and exercise. The move is backed up by research that continues to show that lifestyle is a major contributor to obesity. While lifestyle plays an important role in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, a person’s genetic makeup also has a role to play.
Weight-related tendencies appear to be inherited within families, and a DNA test for weight loss can reveal the same. For example, one study found that grandparents, parents, and children tended to have similar body mass index (BMI).
Over and above this, there are also genetic markers that contribute to our weight. One such gene is the FTO gene. Studies have shown that people with this gene often have higher body fat percentages. They are also more likely to suffer from obesity. The FTO gene is thought to contribute to these effects by influencing food preferences and intake..
Other studies have linked genetics to appetite regulation. This is called the Behavioral Vulnerability Theory. It states that people with certain appetite phenotypes may exhibit greater appetites. It also makes it harder to recognize when you’ve had enough. Some genes influence the response to exercise and contribute to weight loss or weight gain. Two of these genes are AMPD1 and APOE. Each of these factors seems to play a role in how we respond to moderate to vigorous intensity exercise. The BDNF gene influences motivation to exercise. These examples indicate that our genes can affect every aspect of our fitness journey, thus making DNA health testing for weight loss a helpful tool in the goal of losing weight and becoming fit.
What Are the Advantages of Taking A DNA Test For Weight Loss?
Understanding the genetic makeup of an individual through DNA test for weight loss has several advantages. Here are some of them:
1. Better Diet
Genetic testing for weight loss can help you identify and customize a more effective diet for yourself. Certain genes influence how proteins, fats and carbohydrates are used. By knowing this information through a DNA test for weight loss, you can create a menu that fits your genetic profile. For example, if an individual has a “low” carbohydrate utilization genotype, the medical professional will know that a low-carbohydrate diet is likely to yield better weight loss results. Individuals with a “low-fat” genotype would benefit from reduced fat intake.
2. A More Effective Physical Activity Program
DNA health testing for weight loss can also help create a fitness program that will give you the best possible results. Genetic testing for weight loss will show how you respond to cardio and strength training. The results of the test can give the data medical professionals need to develop workouts based on your DNA. It also helps medical professionals to know what intensity to suggest, how often to exercise and how long the sessions should be.
3. Better Clarity on Weight Loss Deterrents
DNA test for weight loss helps understand and overcome the obstacles that individuals face during the weight loss journey. After genetic testing for weight loss, you can know how to work your body instead of working against it. This can help you lose weight more successfully. In the long run, it can also help prevent weight gain.
4. Improved Motivation
When people don’t see results during their weight loss journey, the motivation starts to wane. However, when you build a fitness program after understanding the results of a DNA test for weight loss, you will see faster changes. When you see progress, you are automatically more likely to continue exercise and follow the dietary changes.
Over and above this, a DNA test for weight loss can also give insights into the following:
- Ability to lose weight
- Fat loss response to aerobic exercise
- Body composition response to resistance training
- Use of proteins, fats and carbohydrates
- Intrinsic motivation for exercise
- Impulse control and taste preferences
- Risk of injury
- Systemic Inflammatory Tendency
This information will give you a better understanding of how your body is responding to diet and exercise. If genetic testing for weight loss reveals a specific genotype, you can maximize impact and minimize risk. Genetic testing can also help you understand that while your behavior is important, if you’re having difficulties, your genes may be to blame. Some of the pressure is relieved when you begin to understand that many factors can affect your ability to lose or maintain weight.
What Does Genetic Testing for Weight Loss Comprise?
Depending on the type of genetic test, a sample of blood, skin, amniotic fluid, or other tissue is taken and sent to a laboratory for analysis. DNA testing is done in a variety of ways, such as:
- Taking a Blood Sample:
A member of the medical team will take a blood sample by sticking a needle into a vein in your arm as a part of this test. - Cheek Swab: Some tests take a swab from the inside of the cheek for genetic testing.
- Amniocentesis: For this prenatal genetic test, the doctor inserts a thin, hollow needle through the abdomen into the uterus and removes a small amount of amniotic fluid for testing.
- Chorionic Villus Biopsy: For this prenatal genetic test, the doctor will take a tissue sample from the placenta. Depending on the situation, a tube (catheter) is used to take a sample from the cervix, or a thin needle is used to take a sample from the abdomen and uterus.
Genetics may play a role in weight management, but it is only one of many factors that contribute to an individual’s weight. Lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, sleep, stress management and overall calorie balance also play an important role.
It is important to consult a medical professional who can provide advice based on a comprehensive evaluation of your general health, genetic factors, and lifestyle choices. These will help you create a personalized plan that takes into account multiple factors and is more likely to lead to successful weight management.
DNA Test For Weight Loss In Dubai | First Response Healthcare
First Response Healthcare (FRH) is his JCI-accredited home health care company in Dubai, that offers a range of medical services including DNA health testing for weight loss. FRH offers the most comprehensive at-home DNA test that includes insights covering your genetic makeup for a range of things including health risks, your body’s stress response, family planning, and over 100 drugs. FRH offers genetic testing for weight loss along with guidance and counseling from a team of certified and experienced medical professionals.
Our Service Of DNA Tests At Home Can Help With:
Diet & Nutrition Reports
35 test Points – Through this, you can discover your optimal nutrition type and nutritional needs, including carb and fat sensitivity, vitamin B6, B12 and omega 3 levels.
Sports And Fitness Reports
18 Test Points – Through this, you can find your optimal fitness potential by understanding your genetic strength profile, ability, injury risk, and other health-related factors.
Health Risk And Disease Reports
73 Test Points – This can help you discover common health risks and the risk of developing diseases such as hypertension and osteoporosis.
Dementia and Brain Health Reports
6 Test Points – This can help you plan, prepare and protect your future by understanding how your DNA relates to brain diseases like dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and more.
Stress And Sleep Reports
8 Test Points – Through this, you can learn about your stress tolerance, sleep depth and sleep quality to manage your stress and improve your sleep.
Reports On Health Status And Susceptibility To Pollution
12 Test Points – This can help unlock genetic insights into key body functions such as metabolic response, appetite control and dust allergies for optimal health and vitality.
Reports On Ancestry
You can discover your ancestry with the DNA ancestry test and reconnect with your roots and find out how unique health related factors have been passed down from your ancestors.
Health Guidance
Free of cost, 30-minute consultation with a medical professional and home call doctor trained in genetics.
To avail services of genetic testing for weight loss in Dubai, you can contact First Response Healthcare by calling on 0505050387 or 800DIALDOC. You can also book an appointment on our website by visiting https://firstresponsehealthcare.com/ae/dubai