The Global Nutrigenomics Landscape

One of the most promising promises in digital health is nutrigenomics, which is a DNA-backed science that determines what one should and shouldn’t eat. This has been a promising promise for at least five years. Despite all the advances in DNA analysis and the expectations, it has yet to live up to its high hopes. It is struggling to gain momentum and be a popular service.

There are many reasons this is the case. We have listed four of them in this article. Now, where are we? This was the driving question behind our most recent data project: mapping the nutrigenomics landscape.

To give you an overview of the available nutrigenomics services, our analyst colleague gathered as much information as possible. Our new infographic allows you to dive into the details.

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Our goal was to locate companies that offer genetic testing and dietary advice, information and insights based on genetic results. We found 41 companies selling dietary advice based upon genetic results all over the globe.

It’s no surprise that North American customers are the best served. There are 19 providers located on the continent (17 in America and 2 in Canada). Europe follows with 11 companies located in the UK and Spain, Belgium. Ukraine, Finland, and Ukraine. Five providers are located in Asia, including China, Malaysia, and China. Three of the four African businesses are located in South Africa and one in Egypt. Oceania and Middle East each have one provider, in New Zealand or Israel.

What can you now expect from nutrigenomics?

Three examples of the 41 above are selected to give you a taste of the current state of the field. These are the examples.

Genopalate: You can upload your DNA test

Genopalate is based in the United States. Genopalate is a good example because they allow users to upload their genetics results (from AncestryDNA and 23andMe). You can still take the test, but using your existing analysis will save you approximately 50%.

They offer similar services to other nutrigenomics firms: nutritional insights on 23 nutrients (macronutrients & vitamins & minerals), the possibility of gluten & milk sensitivities, metabolism speed, and a list “genetics superfoods”, which is a recommendation list to help you find the best ingredients to match your DNA profile. You will also learn about your eating habits (such as stress eating, cravings, taste preferences, and ideal breakfast times), and how to manage your stress levels through diet and lifestyle decisions.

You can also consult with a registered dietitian, but this is not included in the basic package. You will need to buy it separately and it will cost more than the actual test. This service is only available in the United States.

DNAfit can also be used with DNA test results. You can review the sample nutrition report.

The UK-based DNAfit doesn’t require you to have an actual test. It also works with reports from two of the same companies, for a very affordable price. According to them, you can have your report within 30 minutes for less than PS30. Although I haven’t tried it yet I think I would opt for the extended package (PS50ish), which promises lifestyle and diet recommendations based on my DNA test results.

Back to the nutrigenomics deal. They can also help you start over and test your DNA. You will be provided with the following information.

To personalize your diet, you can use Diet insight (11 reports). These include data on food sensitivities (carbohydrates, fats, caffeine), coeliac predisposition and alcohol response. 13 reports will provide nutritional insights, focusing on vitamins or minerals. A personalised meal plan will be provided, which is meant to give you shopping lists and recipes based on your personal preferences and genetics.

Based on the data available, they do not offer in-person counseling, not even as an option. Bonus: Available in countries that not many big-name providers cover.

CircleDNA includes Counselling

CircleDNA, a Hongkong-based company, has an interesting point of view. Their test is slightly more costly than the others and much cheaper than many of those on our list. However, it includes a 1-hour counselling session. It is based on whole-genome sequencing and comes with a complimentary 1-hour counseling session. Although an hour might not seem like much, I’ve mentioned more than once that it can be difficult to interpret genetic results even for me. I also have a PhD in Genetics. Products that include counselling are always given bonus points.

Their Diet-Lifestyle-Exercise packages include 125 reports, of which 15 are diet-related. The things they offer are very similar to the ones I listed above (alcohol/caffeine/fat/salt/carbohydrate sensitivity, various intolerances, predispositions, optimal diet type). Twenty more reports provide nutritional information, focusing mainly on vitamins & minerals. Rest of the reports are from other areas such as fitness potential and ancestral roots & genes.

If you’re in one of the poorer countries in the world, like me, then services of major DNA testing companies may not be available in Hungary. However, worldwide shipping is possible.

It is still difficult to determine what value you will receive.

The fact that companies are now able to use genetic test results from existing clients is a relatively recent development in this field. This is a viable business model considering that tens of million people have taken genetic tests in the last few years. It is possible to draw new insights from existing data.

Here’s a summary of what I see regarding nutrigenomics.

It is difficult to know what you are getting for your money. There are many companies that sell these services. However, the regulatory frameworks aren’t clear. Even the FDA, which was the first to establish such a framework for digital inventions in digital health, is late. Users are therefore left guessing about the true value of these offerings. There is currently no way to know if your money is being spent on quality marketing messages or meaningful health insights.

Second, despite the increasing number of scientific studies about nutrigenomics, they don’t necessarily reflect the user’s perspective.

Last, I cannot at the moment give a clear conclusion on what you can or can’t learn by taking such a test. I will keep my eyes open for developments in the regulatory arena.

The Medical Futurist published The Global Nutrigenomics Landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is holistic medication legal?

Both yes and no. Yes. Numerous medicines have been found to be effective in treating various diseases. They don’t cure all ailments. It all depends upon what you mean with “holistic.” It all depends on what you mean by “holistic.”

Some people claim that holistic medicine has been around since ancient times. But this is simply untrue. Although there were some natural remedies used by healers in ancient Egypt or Rome, these practitioners did not have scientific knowledge.

Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. The majority of Western countries had built public hospitals by the 19th century that allowed trained doctors to offer medical care.

Conventional medicine has become the dominant form for healthcare. However, many still prefer to use alternative and complementary medicine. Many people find it more effective than prescription drugs.

Some people find that they feel more relaxed when receiving massage therapy than tranquilizers. Others enjoy eating healthy foods instead of taking prescription medications. Some people find that exercising regularly is beneficial for their bodies.

What treatments are not included in holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healing. It focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms. It aids in the recovery of illness by promoting good health and preventing future ones.

Holistic medicine is a natural alternative to drugs and surgery.

Holistic medicine includes lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, massage, and bodywork techniques.

Integrative medicine is also known as holistic medicine. It integrates all aspects, including the patient’s spiritual, mental, and physical needs, into a single comprehensive care plan.

Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.

Holistic doctors believe there is no one cause for every condition. Instead, they look at the entire picture, including genetic factors, environmental influences, lifestyle choices, and personal habits.

Holistic practitioners emphasize the mind and emotions more than the body.

Holistic doctors work closely with patients to find the best solution for them.

What is the difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicine?

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.

On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.

It is important that you note that some CAM modalities may overlap with traditional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.

Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:

Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
Regulators such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario license Naturopaths.
Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
Naturopaticians are registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one’s life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.

What are the strengths of holistic medicine compared to conventional medicine?

Holistic medicines have been used for thousands of years by many cultures and religions worldwide. They are based on ancient knowledge, experience, and were created.

These medicines are safe, effective, natural, and affordable. Side effects are less common than with prescription drugs.

They are also beneficial for your overall health and well-being.

They can prevent you from getting sick and boost your overall well being.

They could also cure heart disease, cancer, diabetes as well arthritis and asthma.

There are many traditional medicines available, with each having its own benefits.

According to the World Health Organization, around 80% of the population uses traditional methods to treat their illness or injury.

A reported half-billion people use traditional herbal remedies to get primary healthcare.

The market for complementary therapies worldwide is estimated to be $22.2 million by 2020.

Alternative medical treatments are becoming more popular to avoid the side effects of conventional treatment.

Many people turn to complementary therapies when they do not respond to other treatment options. They may also attempt them before resorting or taking medication.

There are several reasons why people choose complementary therapies:

To improve your quality of life
To reduce stress levels
For relaxation
To relieve pain
To enhance immunity
Supportive services for dealing with serious diseases
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To treat chronic conditions

What are alternative medicine examples?

Alternative medicine refers specifically to any treatment that is not used in mainstream medicine. These include traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), homeopathy, chiropractic and acupuncture as well as nutritional therapy such like reiki.

Alternative medicine may also refer to practices not based on scientific evidence but used successfully in clinical practice. Meditation, yoga, aromatherapy and reflexology are some examples.

What are the advantages of alternative and complementary medicine?

People who feel that they are not receiving enough support from allopathic medicine can use complementary and alternate medicine (CAM). These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. CAM practitioners often use treatments that are considered “alternative” because they do not fit into conventional medicine’s system of diagnosis and treatment. However, many CAM therapies also incorporate elements of conventional medicine. For example, some forms of acupuncture are performed with needles, while others involve acupressure or moxibustion with heat.

Some CAM therapies may be helpful for anxiety, pain relief, stress management or relaxation. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies can treat certain conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disorder, rheumatoidarthritis, cancer, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome. Some CAM therapies can be fun.

There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:

A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
The belief that mind and body interact with each other and have an influence on one another
An individual’s belief that illness is due to an imbalance in his/her environment.
A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
The best treatment methods integrate mind, spirit, and body
Use of natural products rather than synthetic chemicals
A healing touch
Mindfulness
Meditation
Acupuncture
Yoga
Herbal remedies
Homeopathy
Chiropractic care
Massage therapy
Hypnotherapy
Spiritual healing
Biofeedback
Nutritional counseling
Energy healing

Certain CAM therapies can have risks. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. Before you decide whether or not to use any CAMs, talk with your doctor about these matters.

What does holistic mean to you?

Holistic means whole-based. Holistic means to see the whole picture and not just a part. It is difficult to do this because we tend to see things as individual parts.

We tend to think in terms of black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.

So, when working on a project, try to see everything from different angles. You should look at it from all sides.

It is important to see how the pieces fit together. How do its various elements interact with each other?

Ask yourself why you are having trouble with a particular element. Make sure to take into account the impact of every change you make.

Statistics

A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

How to Pursue a Career in Holistic Medicine

The field of holistic medicine continues to grow at an incredible rate. You have many options for this career path. If you want to be a part of this profession, however, returning to school may be the best option.

Several schools offer courses in holistic medicine. One of these schools is the National College for Complementary Medicines, which offers both undergraduate degrees and postgraduate programs. They also have several programs designed specifically for medical professionals who wish to enter the field.

In addition, numerous online universities are offering holistic health classes as well. The Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN) is an example of such a program. This institution provides students with various holistic health education tools and resources.

Another option is to attend a traditional four year college. Many colleges now offer holistic health courses. The University of California, for example, offers a Bachelor’s degree in holistic health sciences.

A course in nutrition is a good option if you are interested in pursuing a career as a holistic physician. NCCM recommends to students that they study nutrition before embarking upon any professional training. A good knowledge of nutrition is crucial for integrative medicine.

Because holistic medicine focuses on treating the whole person rather than just focusing on symptoms, it requires more knowledge and skill than conventional medicine does. Holistic medicine also requires understanding of how to evaluate different types and illnesses from a nutritional standpoint.

The NCCM reports that nutritionists often consult with doctors to provide nutritional advice to their patients. Some may even recommend diets or supplements that are specific to the patient’s needs based on their assessment.

As a result, holistic practitioners must have a firm grasp of basic nutrition principles. This includes knowing the best foods and those that are not. It can also include identifying nutritional deficiencies or other problems that might be causing them.

It is important that holistic practitioners are not all trained in nutrition. Some specialize in herbal therapies, while others are more focused on acupuncture. Still, others combine these two approaches into one treatment method.

Most holistic practitioners advocate a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables and nuts. They also encourage the consumption of fish and seafood. They also recommend that you avoid fast food restaurants and processed food products. They encourage people to eat only organic produce as much as possible.

The one thing holistic practitioners can agree on is the importance of a balanced diet in helping to prevent diseases. However, there are some points they disagree with. They disagree with the belief that gluten causes celiac. Rather, they think that a lack of nutrients plays a role in triggering the disorder.

However, they do acknowledge that some foods can cause allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis is caused by shellfish and peanuts, according to them. They also caution against excessive caffeine consumption.

Although many holistic practitioners may use herbs to treat various ailments, they prefer not to use pharmaceutical drugs. These practitioners feel that these drugs mask the problem and do not solve it. As a result, they prefer to rely on natural remedies when possible.

Holistic practitioners offer a range of alternative therapies and often employ complementary methods. These include:

Acupuncture – In Chinese medicine, this involves strategically inserting needles under the skin. This is believed to stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms.
Herbal therapy – This is a form of acupuncture that holistic practitioners also use to treat different disorders. Ginseng is a common herb used in this area.
Homeopathy – Another type of traditional Chinese medicine is homeopathy. It’s based on similar cures. You might experience a similar symptom when you are suffering from the same condition as someone else. In such cases, it’s important to find a remedy with the same ingredients that the original medication.
Massage therapy – Many holistic practitioners offer massage to promote relaxation and stress reduction. Massage therapy is said to increase blood flow, improve energy levels, and relieve muscle tension.

Make sure you are satisfied with the services provided by your chosen practitioner. If you want someone specializing in nutritional counseling, look for a practitioner with a degree in nutrition. The American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM) has a certification program that allows you to learn more about acupuncture.

Before you make any decisions regarding holistic healthcare, talk to your doctor. To find out what services your insurance covers, you might also want to consult with your doctor.

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