Are DNA tests useful to provide lifestyle advice?

A number of companies offer DNA tests that can help you choose the most suitable diet and lifestyle. But are these tests also reliable?

For a few years now you have been able to order a kit online that allows you to send a DNA sample of yourself via a cotton swab for research to a number of commercial companies. They also ask a number of questions regarding your health and lifestyle.

You will then receive personalized advice regarding your diet, lifestyle, sports, etc. However, there is no scientific substantiation for these recommendations and there is therefore no certainty that these recommendations will mean anything. The advice can usually be reduced to general health advice such as exercising more, exercising more, eating more fruit and vegetables. Finally, you are often advised to buy supplements that happen to be sold by the same company.

We also need to ask questions about the use of this DNA and your personal health data by these companies. The data will of course be anonymized and you give permission for your DNA to be used for research, but concerns remain.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024