Monday, October 5, 2015

The genetic profile of vital substances

We can tell from the genes how certain vitamins, minerals, trace elements and secondary phytochemicals affect the body. The response to these substances is different for every person. For some, they are necessary for staying healthy, while for others, they have no effect. And for yet another group, they can actually prove to be harmful.
Here is one example: Cardiologists often recommend taking fish oil capsules, the so-called omega 3 fatty acids. The reasons given are that they
  • reduce cholesterol;
  • protect against atherosclerosis;
  • prevent cardiovascular diseases.
This is true in many cases. But for someone who has the APEG2G gene variant, taking fish oil capsules will reduce their level of “good” HDL cholesterol (which ideally should be high), thereby raising the risk of cardiovascular disease and thus achieving the exact opposite of the desired effect.
Conclusion: Never take vitamins on limited evidence but only in targeted fashion after a genetic test. Because it is only then that you will know whether they are useful and safe.