FAQ

Find answers to your questions here

HOW CAN A GENE TEST CONTRIBUTE TO A BETTER DIET AND LIFESTYLE?

Your health is a result of the interplay between your genes and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, stress, smoking and alcohol consumption. Your unique genetic makeup determines which nutrients are used and how they are used, the way toxins are removed and how effective key processes are within your body. However, by adjusting your diet and lifestyle, you can have a great impact on how your genes work, and compensate for areas where your genes are not functioning optimally.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DNA HEALTH IN PLANNING A HEALTHY DIET?

Today, every pharmacy, health food shop, magazine and supermarket is stacked with dietary and nutrition advice, much of it sound and beneficial. But how do you know which guidelines are relevant for you? The problem is not only the quality but the large amount of advice out there. Gene-based guidelines that are tailored to your particular nutrient and supplementation needs is more effective. For the best outcome we recommend you consult with one of our accredited practitioners listed on the site.

WHAT KIND OF GENE TEST IS DNA HEALTH?

DNA Health focuses on gene variations that may call for changes in diet or lifestyle to optimise your health and wellbeing. By learning more about your unique genetic make-up, you will learn to prioritise your diet and lifestyle in areas that could be of greatest benefit to your health.

WILL YOU TEST FOR ANY SERIOUS INHERITED DISEASES?

No, our screening is not a test for inherited disorders or inherited predisposition to disease. We do not screen for disorders caused by a defect in a single gene, such as Huntington’s disease, cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anaemia. Nor do we test for inherited genes linked to a specific disease – for example, genes associated with certain forms of breast cancer that run in families. If you think you may carry the genes for an inherited disease, speak to your doctor.
 
DNA Health focuses on the presence of gene variations that influence a person’s ability to derive maximal benefit from diet and lifestyle practices. While we cannot promise that if you take our advice you will never become ill, the test allows you to make informed choices about your diet and lifestyle that give you a better chance of staying healthy.

CAN DNA HEALTH TELL ME IF I AM ILL?

No, we can only determine what types of genes people have and how they relate to certain metabolic processes involved in well-being. That is why we ask you in the lifestyle questionnaire whether you are under medical supervision. If you think you may be ill, you should consult your doctor.

WHAT TYPE OF GENE TEST IS DNA DIET?

DNA Diet focuses on gene variations involved in weight and exercise management. Your results will empower you to optimise your chances of effective weight loss, by following a diet and exercise programme specific to your needs.

WHO WILL HAVE ACCESS TO MY DNA RESULTS OR QUESTIONNAIRE?

No-one except you. All of the personal information you choose to share with us (your DNA sample, your identifying details and personal health information) is kept strictly confidential. We do not sell information, nor do we disclose any details to third parties, such as insurance companies or medical aids. Your DNA is identifiable only by a barcode, so even lab staff do not know who the sample belongs to. When the analysis has been completed, the DNA sample is physically destroyed. We do, however, keep your contact information for further communication with you.

WHRE DO I GO FOR MORE DIETARY ADVICE?

If you would like to receive further nutritional guidance after reading your personal report, consult a dietitian, a nutritionist or your doctor, particularly if you have been diagnosed with a food intolerance, allergy or medical condition. Names of dietitians and doctors that have been trained in these tests will be available on the website. You can also consult our inhouse dietitian through the website. If you have additional nutritional queries concerning your personal report, please contact us at 011 268 0268 or email info@dnalysis.co.za.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MY RESULTS OR REQUIRE FURTHER INFORMATION?

If you have any questions regarding any aspect of our service, please call 011 268 0268 or email info@dnalysis.co.za.

HOW DOES DNA DIET HELP TO BURN CALORIES?

DNA Diet provides information about a specific gene that governs our ability to burn up calories and utilise body fat stores. In some individuals the process works more efficiently than in others.