Superfood is a term used to describe a nutrient-dense food item that can help protect you against multiple health concerns. While many exotic foods are claimed to be superfoods by social media, not all of these claims are supported by science. Spirulina has long been used as a source of nutrition in many cultures worldwide. Researchers have found that Spirulina is a superfood and can do wonders for your health. It also has proven health benefits specifically for men, making Spirulina an incredible superfood.
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is also one of the oldest life forms on earth.
It is a type of cyanobacteria, a single-celled microbe colloquially termed blue-green algae.
Spirulina has been a food source in Mexico and South Africa for centuries.
It has numerous health benefits, is often used as a supplement, and is a common ingredient in smoothies and energy bars.
According to the US Department of Food and Agriculture, one teaspoon of Spirulina contains:
Spirulina is usually available as a powder.
Mix it in a glass of water, add it to your morning oatmeal or smoothie, or sprinkle it on salads.
Most people find Spirulina neutral, so it won’t affect the taste of the food you add it to.
It can take 1-3 weeks, or sometimes more than that, for Spirulina to affect your overall health.
Spirulina’s effects on health depend on health, physical activity, and food consumption.
You will see faster results if you follow a healthy lifestyle and take spirulina supplements.
Consuming Spirulina can be highly beneficial for your health.
However, it can also come with certain risks.
During Spirulina’s growth in marine water, it can accumulate heavy metals, harmful bacteria, and microcystins that can damage your liver.
Spirulina is an anticoagulant with blood-thinning properties, so those with clotting disorders should avoid it.
Spirulina also contains an amino acid called phenylalanine, which can be harmful to those with the genetic disorder phenylketonuria.
You should not take Spirulina if you are
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
Spirulina can increase the production of testosterone in men.
This, in turn, can improve athletic performance and sexual health.
Spirulina is rich in antioxidants that lower inflammation in the body.
When taking Spirulina regularly, you may notice less joint pain and bloating and clearer skin.
Over time, Spirulina may improve your heart and gut health and help you lose excess weight.
Research shows that Spirulina can help strengthen your muscles.
In one study, men took a 6-gram spirulina supplement every day for a month.
They reported enjoying more extended periods of exercise without fatigue than those who didn’t take the supplement.
Spirulina contains up to 4 grams of protein per tablespoon.
Consuming it may increase stamina and improve athletic performance.
Spirulina, a single-celled microbe, has long been a food source in many cultures.
Now, scientists have found that Spirulina has a lot of health benefits, especially for men.
Spirulina is rich in antioxidants and can reduce inflammation in the body, improving heart health.
It can also help control diabetes and protect against cancers.
In men, it can improve prostate health and increase testosterone production.
Spirulina is usually safe for consumption.
However, as with all supplements, it is a good idea to consult your doctor before taking Spirulina.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20010119
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6241722
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576896
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8212345
The MTHFR gene is key to a process called methylation, which pretty much runs the entire show in our human body, regulating innumerable critical functions. The importance of a well-functioning methylation cycle, thus, cannot be overstated. But when there are unfavorable changes in the MTHFR gene, methylation could be affected, increasing your risk for numerous health conditions. A genetic methylation test is a simple way to identify whether or not you carry the MTHFR gene changes. Well, what if you do? The fix is as simple as it gets. Read on to learn more about MTHFR and methylation, how to get a genetic methylation test, and ways to combat MTHFR mutations.
Methylation is a critical biochemical process within the human body, governing myriad functions from DNA production to brain chemical synthesis.
This intricate process is vital in regulating key bodily systems, including cardiovascular, neurological, reproductive, and detoxification pathways.
At its core, methylation is about turning biological gears and switches on and off, enabling the body to function optimally.
Central to this process is the MTHFR gene, which encodes for the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase.
This enzyme is instrumental in processing amino acids, the fundamental building blocks of proteins. MTHFR’s significance is particularly pronounced in a chemical reaction involving different forms of vitamin B9 (folate).
This reaction is a crucial step in the methylation process.
The MTHFR enzyme also aids in converting homocysteine into methionine, an essential compound needed by the body for protein synthesis and the formation of other critical substances.
The methylation pathway in our bodies is influenced by many genes. The most important one is the MTHFR gene. Others include:
A methylation genetic test analyzes these genes associated with the methylation pathway to look for any changes or variants that may result in less-than-optimal functioning.
The results can help you understand your methylation status and underline nutritional needs to support your methylation.
In the study of genetics, a variant refers to any deviation in the DNA sequence from what is typically expected.
Focusing on the MTHFR gene, each individual carries two copies of this gene, inheriting one from each parent.
Approximately 25% of people of Hispanic descent and between 10–15% of people of Caucasian descent in the United States have two copies of the C677T mutation.
These mutations are particularly important because they can lead to elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood.
Homocysteine is an amino acid that, at high levels, may be associated with a range of health issues, including:
Understanding the possible genotypes for these MTHFR variants is crucial in determining an individual’s genetic predisposition to these health issues.
The C677T Variant
The A1298C Variant
The Xcode Life Methylation Genetic Test utilizes raw data obtained from popular ancestry genetic testing service providers like 23andMe, Ancestry DNA, Family Tree DNA (FTDNA), Living DNA, and My Heritage to provide the MTHFR and Methylation report.
The test analyzes more than 15 genes associated with the methylation pathway.
The test specifically detects two common mutations in the MTHFR gene:
The MTHFR Report will indicate whether these mutations were detected in the individual’s genetic data.
In addition to the detection of mutations, the report may also provide an interpretation of the results.
The report also has a section titled “Other MTHFR SNPs,” which profiles your genotypes for variations in the other methylation genes, which are associated, in varying degrees, with MTHFR enzyme activity.
For a sample MTHFR report/ preview of the report, click here.
Did You Know?
The DNA data from your genetic ancestry test can be used to identify if you have MTHFR gene mutations. You can discuss these results with your doctor, who can recommend the correct course of action for you. Download your DNA data and upload it to Xcode Life to learn about MTHFR and 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Katy Says
I’m so glad I confirmed once and for all about my MTHFR status. The genetic testing my practitoner offered was extortionate. After completing my AncestryDNA I was able to upload my raw data file with Xcode Life at a very reasonable price and receive a report that was very easy to understand. I now have a concrete plan on how to go about lowering my homocysteine and checking it’s status every year… Read More.
In Xcode Life’s MTHFR report, the initial section will specify which, if any, of the 2 prominent variants of the MTHFR gene you have.
Depending on the results, the MTHFR enzyme activity will be provided as a bar diagram.
If the pointer is in orange or red, please discuss the results with your doctor so that they can correlate them with family history and clinical symptoms to recommend suitable supplementation if you require any.
The next section of the report includes information on variants in other genes that partially influence MTHFR enzyme activity.
The presence of a large number of homozygous (2 risk variants- red color) of high-ranking SNPs may be associated with lower enzymatic activity.
Improving methylation, a crucial biological process, can significantly impact overall health. Here are five natural ways to enhance methylation:
Bonus Tips
Additional strategies include increasing the intake of coenzyme Q10, phosphatidylcholine, folinic or l-methylfolate, and vitamins B6 and B12, which are integral to the methylation process.
Maintaining gut health, improving stomach acid, and supplementing with antioxidants, magnesium, and zinc can also support proper homocysteine metabolism.
Remember, while these natural approaches can improve methylation, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially regarding supplementation and diet modifications.
Methylation is a vital biochemical process in our bodies, influenced significantly by the MTHFR gene and its two important variants, C677T and A1298C.
These common genetic mutations, found in a significant portion of the population, can lead to elevated homocysteine levels and associated health risks.
The Xcode Life Methylation Genetic Test offers an in-depth analysis of these variants using data from popular ancestry testing services. It provides a comprehensive MTHFR report, helping individuals understand their genetic predisposition to methylation-related issues.
To support optimal methylation, adopting a nutrient-dense diet, supplementing appropriately, regular exercise, adequate sleep, limiting exposure to harmful substances, and reducing toxin exposure are key strategies.
Additionally, incorporating specific nutrients and supplements like coenzyme Q10, phosphatidylcholine, folinic acid, and vitamins B6 and B12 can further enhance methylation processes.
It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and to ensure these natural methods align with your individual health needs.
https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2012112
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326181
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/mthfr-gene-and-folic-acid.html
Experiencing bloating and tiredness after meals? Does your stomach ache, or do you find it hard to concentrate after eating certain foods? There might be a hidden cause – lectins. Though found in many healthy foods, lectins can cause problems for some people, like tummy troubles, skin issues, and feeling worn out. Keep reading to learn about lectins, which foods have lots of them, signs to watch for, and most importantly – what you can do if they’re making you feel unwell. If you want to take charge of your health and feel better, this article gives simple tips and useful information about dealing with lectins.
Did You Know?
Certain gene changes can make you prone to food intolerance and drug allergies. These genes are mostly involved in immune system regulation, and changes in them may result in the immune system attacking some components in the food. You can use your ancestry genetic testing data to uncover this information. Learn more.
Lectin intolerance is a food sensitivity that occurs when certain people react badly to foods with lots of lectins.
Lectins are proteins in plants like beans, grains, fruits, and vegetables. They stick to carbohydrates in our guts, messing with how we absorb nutrients and causing digestive discomfort.
While lectins are usually fine for most people, some might experience adverse reactions or other symptoms after consuming them.
Lectin intolerance can cause various symptoms, highlighting the significant impact on overall health and well-being.
Several commonly consumed foods have high levels of lectins. Here are 6 examples:
Adding to the list of foods already mentioned above as high in lectins, here are some more examples:
Understanding what might increase the risk of lectin intolerance is crucial for managing symptoms. Here are some potential factors:
The specific genes associated with lectin sensitivity are still being studied, but two genes might be involved:
Remember, lectin sensitivity involves many genes and other factors, and research is still ongoing to understand it better.
Bananas contain moderate lectins, but they are mostly harmless, called agglutinins. The human gut does not readily absorb these agglutinins, and they do not cause significant health problems for most people.
While coffee does contain lectins, the amount is generally considered low and not thought to be harmful to most people. Some studies suggest that coffee may have some health benefits, like lowering the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and type 2 diabetes.
There is no known way to flush lectins out of your body. Here’s why:
Lectins do not negatively impact everyone. While some people may develop symptoms after eating lectin-containing foods, others can tolerate them without issue.
It’s important to note that responses vary on an individual basis. Testing your sensitivity to lectins is essential.
Additionally, foods with lectins offer health benefits like antioxidants, stabilized insulin, and blood sugar regulation.
Research shows populations eating diets high in lectin-rich legumes, whole grains, and nuts have lower rates of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
So, while lectins can cause problems for some, they also provide benefits.
It’s best to consult a professional to determine if you can incorporate lectin-rich foods in moderation as part of an overall balanced approach.
Managing lectin intolerance involves alleviating symptoms rather than curing the underlying condition.
As many reported symptoms involve gastrointestinal distress, reducing or eliminating high-lectin foods from one’s diet may provide relief.
Restricting the consumption of foods that worsen symptoms under a healthcare professional’s instructions can help manage discomfort.
The goal is to identify and minimize the consumption of specific high-lectin foods that cause symptoms in each individual.
This personalized approach helps tune into the body’s signals, control flare-ups, and improve overall wellness.
Reducing lectin intake can help alleviate discomfort for those sensitive to these compounds.
Here are some straightforward ways to lower your lectin consumption:
Note: It’s best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance, considering your health history and symptoms.
Lectin intolerance can cause digestive issues, fatigue, and brain fog in some individuals.
While lectins are found in various healthy foods, they can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
These plant proteins can bind to gut carbohydrates, potentially impacting nutrient absorption and causing discomfort.
Bloating, nausea, diarrhea, brain fog, anxiety, fatigue, skin issues, and disrupted sleep are potential signs of lectin intolerance.
Examples of high-lectin foods include red kidney beans, soybeans, wheat, peanuts, tomatoes, potatoes, and others.
Frequent antibiotic use, gut imbalances, leaky gut, plant-based diets high in lectins, and certain genes might increase the risk.
To reduce lectins, you can boil, soak, sprout, or choose processed beans. Depending on your sensitivity, you may also need to adjust your diet.
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/anti-nutrients/lectins/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-lectins
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10084985/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dietary-lectins
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5960708/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21892520/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK5968/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11030554/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29590460/
FamilyTreeNow is a free and popular website designed to assist individuals in constructing their family trees and unearthing intriguing genealogical secrets. Offering access to a treasure trove of public records and a user-friendly family tree builder, FamilyTreeNow has sparked both excitement and controversy. From concerns about data accuracy to questions surrounding privacy, it’s a platform that has left users intrigued yet cautious. Here is everything you need to know about FamilyTreeNow, its services, data privacy concerns, and ways to opt out of their services.
FamilyTreeNow is a website that helps trace ancestries, build family trees, and get contact details of millions of individuals.
Launched in 2014, this genealogy website is based in Roseville, California, and has over 1.6 billion personal records in its database.
Yes. FamilyTreeNow is a free website allowing individuals to search for people and build and store their family tree without paying anything.
FamilyTreeNow offers two primary services – people finder and family tree builder.
Follow these easy steps to search for records on FamilyTreeNow’s database.
Below are the steps to use the family tree builder service.
Recommended for you: How to download your Family Tree DNA Raw Data?
Unlike other genealogy websites, FamilyTreeNow does not ask for a fee to utilize any of their services.
Some genealogy websites have free services but require customers to upgrade to premium services for a fee. FamilyTreeNow doesn’t offer such premium services either.
According to the website’s founders, their mission is to create the best genealogy website in the world that both amateur and professional genealogists can utilize.
The accuracy of FamilyTreeNow’s records depends on two factors.
The controversy surrounding FamilyTreeNow primarily revolves around the accessibility and potential misuse of personal information available on the site.
It has raised significant privacy concerns due to the ease with which personal details can be obtained.
Additionally, the website has been linked to cases of stalking and other malicious activities, sparking apprehension regarding the security and ethical implications of its services.
Furthermore, the owner of FamilyTreeNow, Dustin Weirich, has faced criticism for being unresponsive to requests for comment, which has fueled skepticism about the platform’s commitment to addressing privacy and security issues.
FamilyTreeNow’s website tells you exactly how you could opt out of its services, so your information isn’t visible to those who search for it.
Here are the detailed steps to opt out.
The internet is split in its opinion, having a free-to-access genealogy website.
Global genealogy enthusiasts are excited about having a free tool that helps them pursue their passion for genealogy.
However, a larger group of people are worried that this free database will give anyone access to your details, including your address, contact number, and relationships.
Here are some pros and cons of using FamilyTreeNow to help you make an informed decision.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unlimited free access to create a family tree and search for ancestry details | Risk of data privacy |
| Quick access to multiple public records all in one place | Since the database depends on open public records, it may be hard to eliminate inaccuracies and incomplete information |
| Advanced search features make it easy to narrow down search results | FamilyTreeNow does not have extensive customer support features like other paid websites |
https://www.familytreenow.com/
https://blog.incogni.com/family-tree-now-opt-out/
https://www.lifewire.com/family-tree-now-4129031
https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.familytreenow.com
Did you know that not all natural supplements are as safe as they seem? While some can offer health benefits, others might harm your liver, the most vital organ responsible for cleansing your body. NIH research has revealed that liver injury induced by herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) accounts for 20% of hepatotoxicity cases in the United States. This means being cautious about your supplements, which is crucial for safeguarding your liver health. Keep reading to explore 7 natural supplements that may cause liver damage, either directly or through interactions with other medications. Additionally, we’ll address liver damage signs, delve into liver-stressing vitamins, and provide practical supplement selection tips for liver health maintenance.
While many turn to natural supplements for improved health, some contain unexpected downsides.
It’s important to be aware of potential side effects, especially those impacting the vital liver.
Here are 7 commonly used supplements that, under certain circumstances, can harm your liver:
As mentioned earlier, herbal and dietary supplements contribute to 20% of hepatotoxicity cases in the US.
The research found significant culprits like anabolic steroids, green tea extract, and multi-ingredient nutritional supplements (MINS) as common causes.
Anabolic steroids, often sold as bodybuilding supplements, usually result in a prolonged cholestatic liver injury. A specific pattern in blood tests and liver tissue samples characterizes this type of injury.
On the flip side, green tea extract and similar products are prone to trigger acute liver injury, with symptoms closely mirroring those of hepatitis.
However, the majority of HDS-associated liver injuries are linked to MINS, where the specific toxic component is often unknown.
This poses challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Improved regulatory oversight is crucial to ensure the purity and safety of non-prescription products.
Collaboration among healthcare professionals, chemists, and toxicologists is essential to identifying and regulating harmful ingredients and promoting public safety.
Symptoms indicating potential liver function issues can appear in various ways.
Other symptoms include:
These indications could appear rapidly or gradually, depending on the cause and severity of liver injury.
It is vital to consult a physician promptly if you notice any of these signs so they can evaluate the condition and provide necessary treatment.
Vitamin A and niacin (vitamin B3) are the vitamins that are hard on the liver in high doses.
While most vitamins, when taken within recommended amounts, rarely cause liver harm, vitamin A and niacin can lead to distinctive forms of liver injury.
This risk arises because many vitamins, especially fat-soluble ones, are concentrated, metabolized, and stored in the liver.
Exceeding safe intake levels can overload the liver’s capacity to process these vitamins, resulting in liver damage.
Thus, caution should be exercised with vitamin A and niacin supplementation to prevent liver injury.
While some supplements may be effective in supporting liver health, it is important to talk to your doctor about it and only take those that are prescribed.
Be careful with some natural supplements, as they can hurt your liver.
Be cautious with kava, green tea extract, comfrey, chaparral, aloe vera, black cohosh, and echinacea supplements, especially if you have liver issues or take other medications.
Watch for signs like tiredness, yellow skin, or belly pain, which could mean liver damage.
Too much vitamin A and niacin can harm your liver. Before starting any new supplements, consult your doctor first.
Check what’s inside them and pick brands that have been properly tested and approved.
Eating healthy foods and living a good lifestyle is best for keeping your liver healthy. Only use supplements when you really need them.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5502701/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548637/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547925/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548370/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/larrea
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547990/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548440/
https://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/toxic-liver-disease
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548888/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/toxic-not-healthy-surprising-liver-dangers-herbal-products/
As the scientific community continues to unlock the mysteries of the human body, more and more people are turning to DNA tests to learn about their health and ancestry. While the price of a DNA test can vary depending on the type of test and the company you choose, this guide will give you an idea of how much you can expect to pay for a DNA test.
Depending on the type and complexity, a DNA test may cost under $99 to more than $2000.
In some cases, additional testing may be required, increasing the cost.
In some states, insurance covers a portion of certain types of genetic tests.
From the date of sample collection, the results may be ready within a few days to a few weeks.
The turnaround time is much quicker if the genetic test is crucial for timely diagnosis (such as prenatal tests).
Different types of genetic tests investigate different things and are priced accordingly.
Let’s have a look at some important types of genetic tests.
| Type of Test | Average Cost |
| Ancestry Test (direct-to-consumer) | $59-$119 |
| Health and Wellness Assessment (direct-to-consumer) | $100-$640 Xcode Life’s Special Price: starting from $30 |
| Paternity Test | At home: $130-$200 Legal: $300-$500 |
| Molecular Genetic Tests | $100-$2000 |
Genetic ancestry tests, also called genealogy tests, aim to analyze the shared genetic regions between individuals to establish their relationship.
Ancestry testing allows one to learn their ethnicity and information about their ancestors.
It is the cheapest DNA testing option with most companies and can range from as low as $59 to around $119.
*as of 13th March 2024
Also Read: How To Login To AncestryDNA + Health Reports At 55% Off!
Genetic tests can now help healthcare professionals and other consumers understand the risk of developing a health condition.
This enables personalized preventive measures and optimal treatment.
Further, owing to the rising popularity of nutritional supplements, genetic companies are introducing lifestyle and wellness tests (such as nutrition or fitness genetic tests) to promote better health.
Most companies price these tests at $100 to $600.
Many companies also combine health and ancestry tests and price them around $200.
Did You Know? You can use your existing DNA data from ancestry genetic tests to get Xcode Life’s reports within 24 hours!
DNA paternity tests are one of the most common types of DNA tests.
The individual and the alleged father get a genetic test, and a specialist compares the shared DNA regions between them to establish paternity.
At-home DNA paternity tests cost around $130-$200, and legal paternity tests can cost up to $500.
Molecular tests are mostly used for diagnostic purposes.
They look for abnormal changes in one or more genes
Molecular genetic tests employ DNA sequencing, a process that determines the order of the 4 letters (A, T, G, and C) in the human genetic code.
Costs vary depending on the type of test: single variant, targeted gene, gene panel, whole-exome, and whole-genome.
| Company | Average Test Cost** |
| Xcode Life (DNA kit not provided) | Single tests: $30-$50 Bundles: $160-$199 (850 traits) |
| 23andMe | $119-$229 |
| AncestryDNA | $59-$199 |
| MyHeritage DNA | $39 |
| Family Tree DNA | $119-$449 |
| Living DNA | $90-$180 (+ shipping) |
| Vitagene | $89-$169 |
| Genomelink | $39-$199 |
| SelfDecode | $199-$476 |
| CircleDNA | HK2,399-HK4,990 ($307-$638) |
| Nebula Genomics | $99-$999 |
Some direct-to-consumer companies, like Sequencing, offer free services that allow you to upload your existing DNA data to get some basic information for free.
Many insurance plans cover most clinical genetic tests recommended by physicians. However, direct-to-consumer tests have poor insurance coverage and only a few companies/insurance plans offer reimbursement.
Dog tests help the owners know the specific breeds to allow better care.
Despite the rising popularity of dog DNA testing, only a few companies offer quality services.
The tests can cost anywhere from $60 to $200, based on the knowledge you’re seeking and how deep you want the analysis to be.
Pregnancy DNA tests cost depending on the nature of the test.
The most common types of pregnancy tests include
The pricing of DNA tests varies depending on the type, use, and the company offering the genetic test.
Basic ancestry tests cost around $99, while health and wellness ones can cost as much as $450.
Molecular diagnostic tests can cost anywhere from $100-$1000.
