DNA fitness testing
Outline Did you ever think that spitting into a tube and sending it off to be analysed by scientists could help you be healthier? Well, thanks to FitnessGenes, apparently it can. A team of experts will scrutinise your DNA for genetic traits, such as how you build muscle or lose weight. You then get a fitness plan based on the results.
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Using insights from your genetic make-up, FitnessGenes can also advise on maintaining or improving your health. For example, if your genes show the fat receptors on your tongue aren’t very sensitive it could mean you are prone to overeating fatty foods. The app will suggest steps you can take, such as swapping white rice for fibrous quinoa or eating protein-rich eggs for breakfast, to avoid any potential fat fests.
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Founded by four science buffs, including husband-and-wife geneticists Dr Stuart Grice and Dr Samantha Decombel, the company began in 2013 as MuscleGenes, and was aimed at bodybuilders. ‘They’re really analytical and love the science,’ says Dr Decombel. Six years ago the team expanded its remit and became FitnessGenes.
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According to Dr Decombel, this is ‘a preventative health tool that could help extend your healthspan’. And just to be clear, the emphasis is on fixing things before they’re broken. ‘We’re not telling you that you’re going to get heart disease or diabetes.’ Instead, it’s about pinpointing risk areas, so that you can tweak your lifestyle accordingly.
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Looking at its user demographics, the scientists noted peaks around milestone ages. Dr Decombel believes people hit big birthdays and think, ‘I’m not
going to let being 40 or 50 stop me being the fittest I can be.’ There’s an equal split between male and female users, from the original bodybuilders to overweight older people.
Key line With over 170 genetic traits to read through, the outlines given can feel overwhelming – but the team has made things simpler by categorising traits. Users can also sort the information by high to low risk, highlighting primary areas to focus on.
Blurred line Your DNA isn’t a crystal ball. You can, for instance, have a gene that predisposes you to obesity while still being a healthy weight. Genes are just one part of the puzzle, plus you may already have found weight management strategies of your own.
Guideline Based on DNA analysis and a lifestyle survey users fill out, FitnessGenes also provides a nutrition guide, with the amount of calories, carbs, protein and fat you should aim for daily, plus recipes to help you achieve this.
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Those who’ve never managed a press-up or won a sprint will be interested to learn how their genes impact their muscle-building. However, far from telling you that you’ll be hopeless at certain sports, the report is full of tips on how to up your fitness – you can also buy four- to 12-week workout plans as an extra.
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While users credit FitnessGenes with huge weight losses and shirt-busting muscles, one Trustpilot review puts it best: ‘This is the most comprehensive understanding of my physical self I have ever seen. I didn’t think it was possible to have this level of information outside a crime TV show.’
Bottom line Bespoke wellness plans don’t come cheap: DNA Fitness Analysis costs from €172, fitnessgenes.com.
WORDS: SOPHIE HINES
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