On Tuesday I experienced one of the most profound medical appointments I have ever sat through. It was not with a fellow ND or MD, but it could easily have been. My appointment was with a medical geneticist, Dr. Mansoor Mohammed of Younique Genomics. Two weeks prior I submitted a blood sample to test 14 genetic markers. These markers were not for specific diseases, such as with the “breast cancer gene” (BRCA1,2), but rather, for functional genes, genes who’s blueprint lays out instructions to manufacture ingredients that support pathways related to detoxification, heart health, metabolism and the neurobiology of performance, anxiety and depression.
Many of you have heard me say that I will never run testing unless it changes the course of treatment. This test was a game changer for me in this way. In the category related to neurobiology, I showed markers associated with balanced stress management. In the cardiovascular category, an area for which I have a strong family history, my markers suggest optimal lipid metabolism and oxygen utilization in cardiac cells. While I did inherit one of 2 genes that predispose me to excessive weight gain, I learned that my metabolism favours cardiovascular exercise over lifting weights. The implications for those looking to lose weight, in this respect are profound. In the detoxification category however, I did receive a surprise, a big one. Two critical genes blueprint the manufacturing something called glutathione. Glutathione is an important antioxidant and a vital ingredient involved in the detoxification of innumerable toxins. While several backup pathways can produce small amounts, the glutathione produced via the two primary paths is responsible for removing the oxidative stress and chemicals implicated in aging and many cancers. In my case, I am missing the genetic information that codes for glutathione in not one, but both of these pathways.
The results of this test were a game changer for me. Today, I started supplementing glutathione as well as nutrients involved in the synthesis of glutathione. I have chosen to include substances that support adjacent pathways and it has allowed me to practice preventative medicine in its truest and most individualized capacity. It has provided me with insight, not only into my own health and risk factors, but potentially, my children as well.
I have been using aspects of genetic testing in my practice for some time, but this particular panel changes everything. Of all the information and resources I have had the opportunity to access, I feel that this one has the potential to help more people in a most profound way.
I have testing kits in my office. If you would like to learn more, please let me know.
I am off to drink a green smoothie, wishing you a fabulous week,
