What is nutrigenomics?

Nutrigenomics is the fusion of genetic testing and nutrition. Nutrigenomic testing looks at your DNA and tests 45 different genes in 7 health areas: nutrient metabolism, cardiometabolic health, eating habits, injury risk, physical activity, weight management, and food intolerance. Based on these results, specific nutritional plans and exercise protocols can be created and implemented to address any genetic risks you inherently have.

How does it benefit me?

What this means is, you can look at your genetic risk of nutrient deficiencies, cardiovascular events, weight loss, reaction to food, and your body's reaction to certain physical activities (i.e. do you benefit from power/strength based exercises or endurance based exercises?). Based on your genetic results, naturopathic physicians can create a nutritional and exercise plan guided by your genetic make-up to meet your health goals and get to your ideal self. 

Example: This test can demonstrate that you have a genetic risk factor for being vitamin B12 and vitamin C deficient if you don't meet your basic requirements. In your treatment protocol, supplementation/IV therapy/nutritional counselling will address this genetic risk and ensure you not only get your basic requirements but get your body to your optimal levels.

Is nutrigenomics covered?

Maybe. All naturopathic visits are covered by most extended benefits plans. The nutrigenomics test is sometimes covered by the plan as well, it depends on the plan. Please check with your extended benefits plan provider to determine if they will cover "naturopathic testing".