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An astonishing 90% of adults in the United States have experienced at least one cavity in their lifetime. While factors such as oral hygiene practices and consumption of sugary beverages are commonly blamed, the roots of dental issues often delve much deeper. Research indicates that a variety of dental conditions, including cavities, tooth decay, and misaligned teeth, may have familial ties. This suggests that inheriting “bad teeth genes” from your parents could significantly elevate your susceptibility to a range of dental problems.

How Does Genetics Impact Your Dental Health?

Humans inherit 50% of their DNA from their biological mothers and the other 50% from their biological fathers.

That’s why we all share features with our biological parents – blue eyes, curly hair, food preferences, etc. 

In the same way, we also may share disease risk – how likely we are to develop heart disease or diabetes – though it’s not as straightforward.

Even dental issues fall into this pattern.

Here are some oral health attributes that may be inherited:

Bad Teeth Genes: What Dental Issues Can Be Inherited?

Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth or misaligned teeth are conditions that affect many children and adults.

In severe cases, it can cause problems with speech.

It is usually corrected using braces.

You can have crooked teeth due to genetic and environmental factors.

Teeth alignment depends on the number and size of teeth, size of jaw, and occlusion (how the teeth come together when we chew).

Your genes determine all these factors.

 However, some other factors, like sucking your thumb and thrusting your tongue towards your teeth, also result in crooked teeth.

Interestingly, these behaviors, too, have genetic predispositions.

So, if you have crooked teeth, chances are that it runs in your family.

Periodontal Disease 

Periodontitis or gum inflammation is one of the most common types of periodontal disease.

There are two types of periodontitis: chronic periodontitis (CP) and aggressive periodontitis (AgP).

Studies have found that AgP is more likely to be genetic than CP.

Another study has shown that a gene named FAM5C is most likely to contribute to AgP, especially in older adults.

Cavities

Cavities are usually caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, and eating sugary and starchy foods.

However, you might become more susceptible to cavities if it runs in your family.

Less saliva production is a genetic risk factor for developing cavities.

A thin or weak enamel might also make you prone to developing cavities.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is caused by the formation of dental plaque, a sticky, bacteria-filled film that forms on the tooth.

This plaque changes into a hard substance called dental calculus when you don’t brush your teeth.

Sugary foods are the most common cause of tooth decay.

However, genes might make you more susceptible to tooth decay.

You might be prone to tooth decay if you have underdeveloped or weak enamel. 

A lowered immune response will also give free rein to the oral bacteria, which might lead to tooth decay.

Yellow Teeth

Tooth color is determined by several factors, some of which are intrinsic while others are extrinsic.

Enamel, the outermost layer of teeth, is opaque white, while the underlying dentin is yellow.

People who are born with thin enamel have teeth that look yellow.

But this can also happen due to age when the enamel wears off, exposing the underlying yellow dentin.

Tooth color is determined by how your teeth develop in your fetal life.

If exposed to the antibiotic tetracycline in the womb, you will likely have yellow teeth.

Teeth can also become stained due to smoking or drinking coffee.

All these reasons show that you can have yellow teeth due to genetic and environmental factors. 

Oral Cancer

The most prevalent risk factor for oral cancer is tobacco use.

However, this cancer might run in families.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of oral cancer.

You are more likely to develop SCC in your mouth or head region if your close relatives, such as a parent or a sibling, have this condition.

What Are The Bad Teeth Genes To Watch Out For?

If you have more or less than the normal number of teeth in your mouth, it might lead to misalignment and crowding.

The genes that usually cause this anomaly are MSX1, PAX9, EDA, and AXIN2.


Hand-picked Content For You: How Does Calcium Deficiency Affect Teeth?


Signs and Symptoms Of Bad Teeth Genes

How Can You Overcome The Effects Of Bad Teeth Genes?

You can’t control your genes and their effect on your oral health.

However, you can always be more vigilant about your oral hygiene routine to overcome the effects of bad teeth genes.

Summary

Dental issues can be a result of both genetic as well as environmental factors.

You might be born with bad teeth genes, but it does not mean caring for your teeth is pointless.

Common dental problems like tooth decay, cavities, and gum inflammation are all influenced by genetic risk factors.

However, sugary foods and smoking can also increase the risk of developing these conditions.

So, being vigilant about your oral health is always a good idea. 

If you have bad teeth genes and dental problems run in your family, consult your dentist.

You might need some extra products or care to maintain your oral health.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9192175/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4449725/

https://www.news-medical.net/health/Are-Genes-Involved-in-Tooth-Decay-and-Gum-Disease.aspx

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41421-019-0126-6

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23318742/

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0010053#s2

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Do you have your 23andMe DNA data?

Learn about your MTHFR gene status for free!


WATCH: How to interpret your MTHFR report

What is MTHFR?

MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and is produced by the MTHFR gene.

MTHFR enzyme performs the function of adding chemical (methyl) groups to folic acid (Vitamin B9) in order for the body to utilize it efficiently.

This process is also necessary for the process that converts the amino acid homocysteine to another amino acid, methionine.

Detailed schematic representation of homocysteine to methionine conversion
Detailed schematic representation of homocysteine to methionine conversion

With your 23andMe raw data, you can learn a lot about your MTHFR gene through the Methylation test.

But, why should you learn about your MTHFR gene status?

All of us have two copies of the MTHFR gene, one from each biological parent. However, the type of MTHFR gene differs from person to person.

To explain this better, let’s take the example of blood groups. All of us have red blood. But you may have an O+ve blood type, while the other person may be A-ve – and these different blood groups have different health implications. 

Like how O+ve and A+ve are the most common blood types, the MTHFR gene also has 2 common variants (type): C677T and A1298C, the former being more common than the latter. These are called the MTHFR gene mutation.

About 40% of the American population have the C677T type, which has been associated with up to 80% reduction in the enzyme’s efficiency

Health Implications of MTHFR Gene Mutations

MTHFR mutation inheritance

When the MTHFR enzyme levels are reduced, it can lead to various health complications due to homocysteine (harmful amino acid) buildup.

They include:

Once you learn about the type of MTHFR gene you carry, the effects of it can be made better by simple fixes such as dietary changes and folic acid supplements. 

What is an MTHFR test? 

An MTHFR gene test examines variations in the MTHFR gene. 

This test does not need a medical prescription.  It can be performed in a major genetic diagnostic lab such as Quest or LabCorp. 

The aforementioned mutations (along with other smaller ones) are tested for in the MTHFR gene to provide the MTHFR gene status

More readily, the 23andMe MTHFR status can be learned from your 23andMe raw data. Anyone with 23andMe raw data can upload their DNA raw data to xcode.life to learn about their 23andMe MTHFR status. 

So, the MTHFR “test” does not necessarily have to be a test but can be as simple as uploading your 23andMe raw data (if you already have it) and downloading your results.

Which Companies Test For MTHFR Mutations?

There are many service providers and online tools that help you find out about your 23andMe MTHFR status. Some of them are listed below:

  1. Xcode Life: Almost 40 SNPs related to methylation and MTHFR are reported as part of the Xcode life MTHFR and Methylation report. You can upload raw data from most major ancestry companies such as 23andme, Ancestry DNA, Family Tree DNA  (FTDNA), and others (view the complete list here) and learn about your 23andme MTHFR status. The reports come with a detailed set of recommendations that guide you through the dietary changes necessary to mitigate the enzyme deficiency.
  2. Genetic Genie is a tool that accepts raw data only from 23andMe
  3. Genetic life hacks blog: It is not a tool but has a lot of information dedicated to methylation and the MTHFR gene that you can use as a reference if you have your raw data and a little knowledge about how SNPs work. However, if you do not have such a background, do not attempt to interpret the information all by yourself.

Steps To Test For MTHFR Gene Mutation

  1. Download your DNA raw data file from your ancestry test service provider:
    23andMe DNA Data Download Guide
    AncestryDNA DNA Data Download Guide
    Family Tree DNA Data Download Guide
  2. Once you can access your data, head over to www.xcode.life and purchase the MTHFR and Methylation report. You can also buy the Wellness Pack, which includes 5 other reports and has a $50 OFF!
  3. Fill out the required details and complete your transaction.
  4. Once this is done, you’ll be taken to your account dashboard, where you can upload the downloaded data.
  5. Within 12-24 hours of the upload, you’ll receive the report(s) directly to your email inbox!

How to check my MTHFR and Methylation Test Report for MTHFR Status

The first section of your report will include the 2 main mutations of the MTHFR gene.

This section, “PROMINENT MTHFR SNPS,” includes the 2 SNPs:

  1. rs1801133 – C677T
  2. rs1801133 – A1298C

The bar graph below will indicate the combined result for these SNPs, which is “MODERATELY REDCUED MTHFR ENZYME ACTIVITY,” in this case. This indicates a genetic likelihood of moderately functioning MTHFR enzyme.

Snippet of MTHFR and methylation test report with 23andme DNA data

Under the “OTHER MTHFR SNPS,” we profile other variants that have a mild effect on the MTHFR enzyme activity but are not considered significant individually.

In the example below, for some, the individual carries one or two copies of the risk and all, and for others, they have two copies of the normal allele. This may have a mild effect on the MTHFR enzyme functioning.

Snippet of MTHFR and methylation test report with 23andme DNA data

With simple dietary modifications or folic acid supplements, you will be able to mitigate the enzyme deficiency.

Food recommendations for MTHFR enzyme deficiency

If you already have your DNA raw data from an ancestry test you may have done, you can easily find out your 23andMe MTHFR status from your DNA raw data with the Methylation report. Otherwise, you may consider an ancestry test for $99 or less, so that you can get your genetic raw data for further analysis. Once you have your raw data, you can upload it to xcode.life for your 23andMe MTHFR Methylation status report.

References

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK6561/
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4326479/
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17433898/
  4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Race_and_genetics#Genetic_variation
  5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nucleotide
  6. https://www.healthline.com/health/homocysteine-levels

More About MTHFR Gene Mutations

Updated May 2023

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that affects two hundred thousand pregnant people in the U.S. per year. This worrying number has only been on during and post the COVID pandemic. While certain factors can increase the risk of this condition, research also suggests that family history plays a role here. This article discusses in-depth about preeclampsia, touching upon its risk factors and whether it has any genetic roots.

What Is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that may arise during pregnancy, usually occurring after the 20th week.

It results in high blood pressure (hypertension) and is often linked with the presence of protein in the urine (proteinuria), suggesting potential kidney issues.

Preeclampsia can extend its impact to other organs, such as the liver, leading to additional symptoms.

Although it commonly resolves post-childbirth, neglecting treatment can pose significant health risks for both the baby and the mother.

Who Gets Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is usually seen in first pregnancies, but if there is a history of it in the previous pregnancy/ies, then the risk of preeclampsia in future pregnancies is seven times higher!

Risk Factors For Preeclampsia

While it can affect anyone who is pregnant, certain factors increase the risk. Let’s take a closer look at them:

Remember, individual risk varies depending on the combination of factors present in each person.

Regular checkups with your healthcare provider throughout the pregnancy are vital steps, ensuring your and your baby’s well-being.

Is Preeclampsia Genetic?

Yes, there is substantial evidence suggesting a genetic component in the development of preeclampsia.

Scientists did an extensive study, checking 775 tiny genetic variations in 120 genes of over 350 moms with preeclampsia and 602 without it.

They identified six genes (IGF1, IL4R, IGF2R, GNB3, CSF1, and THBS4) that contribute to preeclampsia development through a combination of maternal and fetal genetic changes.

Can Preeclampsia Run In Families?

Yes, there is a familial link to preeclampsia, indicating a genetic influence on the condition, such as:

Will I Have Preeclampsia If My Mom Had It?

Yes, if your mom had preeclampsia during her pregnancy, there is an increased risk that you may also develop preeclampsia during your pregnancy.

A cohort study involving 22,768 elder daughters and 2,959 younger daughters revealed a link between a mother’s preeclampsia and her daughters’ vulnerability to it.

Mothers having preeclampsia during the first pregnancy with an elder daughter increase the elder daughter’s risk of developing it in her own first pregnancy by 1.7 times. This risk continues into the second pregnancy.

The study found similarly elevated risks for daughters if the mother had preeclampsia in any other pregnancy or if only mothers with firstborn children were considered.

However, it’s important to note that genetic predisposition explained only a minor part of preeclampsia occurrence in the population studied.

Is It Possible To Prevent Genetic Preeclampsia?

Preventing genetic preeclampsia isn’t guaranteed because it depends on factors beyond your control. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk or manage it:

The best-known method is low-dose aspirin, typically an 81-milligram tablet daily after 12 weeks of pregnancy. 

Your primary care provider may recommend this if you have one high-risk factor for preeclampsia or more than one moderate-risk factor.

Being as healthy as possible before pregnancy is advised, especially if you’ve had preeclampsia before.

Manage any conditions that increase the risk of preeclampsia by discussing them with your healthcare provider.


Note: Before taking any medications, vitamins, or supplements, it’s crucial to consult your provider to ensure safety.


Health Impacts Of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia can bring about various health challenges, including:

Understanding these potential impacts is crucial, and early detection and management are essential for the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Other Factors That Can Impact Preeclampsia Risk

Additional factors that might slightly raise the likelihood of developing preeclampsia include:

Summary: Is Preeclampsia Genetic?

Preeclampsia is a serious condition during pregnancy with high blood pressure and protein in urine.

It’s more likely in first pregnancies, especially if there’s a family history or if it happened before.

Genetics is a factor, but it doesn’t explain everything. If your mother had it, you’re at a higher risk.

Taking low-dose aspirin as prescribed by your doctor and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk.

Preeclampsia can cause problems for both mom and baby, so early detection and care are essential.

Age, obesity, and certain conditions can also affect the risk. Regular checkups and healthy choices make a big difference in having a safer pregnancy.

References

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pre-eclampsia/

https://www.news-medical.net/health/The-Genetics-of-Pre-Eclampsia.aspx

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4060423/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3145161/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10468424/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preeclampsia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355745

With over 75 million US adults suffering from digestive issues, the phrase “listen to your gut” has transcended being a mere metaphor to become a vital health mantra! Far from being a fleeting health fad, gut health emerges as a cornerstone of overall wellness, playing a pivotal role not just in digestion but also in the operation of virtually every organ system in the body. While pinpointing an unhealthy gut isn’t straightforward, certain indicators can serve as red flags. This article discusses the 10 commonly observed signs of an unhealthy gut and some of the most effective lifestyle changes to fix your gut.



Why Is Gut Health So Important?

Calling the gut the body’s second brain would still be an understatement, considering the important roles it plays in our bodies.

By digesting the food consumed and absorbing the essential nutrients from it, the gut fuels and maintains the entire body.

Therefore, it is no surprise that the importance of the gut in maintaining overall health is increasingly becoming an important research topic in the medical community. 

Heart HealthTMAO is a substance made in our gut when we digest certain foods. High TMAO levels in our blood, influenced by our diet and gut bacteria, are linked to heart disease in humans. If we feed our bodies with certain kinds of food, it encourages the gut bacteria to produce more TMAP, thereby endangering our heart health.
Kidney HealthUremic dysbiosis is a pathogenic condition that affects the ability of the kidney to filter properly due to an imbalance in the gut microbiome. Uremic dysbiosis can also be caused by excess plasma TMAO and lead to chronic kidney disease. Medical experts believe treating an unhealthy gut can help prevent uremic dysbiosis or reduce its severity. 
Immune SystemDid you know that 70-80% of immune cells are present in the gut? Therefore, the gut plays a direct role in influencing the immune system, which is why certain types of gut microbiota have been linked to autoimmune diseases.  
Liver healthStudies report that a leaky gut may cause the movement of gut microbiota to the liver, resulting in the development of liver diseases. The composition of gut microbes can also influence bile metabolism. Issues with bile metabolism lead to liver disorders.
Skin HealthGut health directly affects skin inflammation and influences acne breakouts. The gut also helps in the absorption of essential nutrients like vitamins A, E, and C and fatty acids, all of which are important in maintaining skin health. 
Mental HealthThe gut produces essential neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood, regulate sleep, and influence mental health. An unhealthy gut may lead to neurotransmitter imbalances, leading to various mental health issues.
Body WeightThe gut produces hormones that control feelings of hunger and satiety. An unhealthy gut may lead to problems in regulating these hormones, causing overeating issues. The gut also determines how nutrients are absorbed, and fat is stored, which also affects body weight. 

What Are The Factors That Affect Gut Health

The following are some of the factors that affect gut health. 

Diet

One of the major factors that affect gut bacteria is the food consumed. 

A diet rich in vegetables and fruits may help develop a more diverse microbiome in the gut while consuming excess processed food may lead to intestinal lining damage and the presence of only a limited species of gut microbes.

A 2008 study suggests that a Western diet, rich in saturated fats and sugar, causes a reduction in the levels of Bacteroides (beneficial gut microbes) and an increase in the level of firmicutes (bad gut microbes).

Several studies relate an increased ratio of firmicutes to Bacteroides to type II diabetes and obesity.

Some studies report that non-digestable dietary components called probiotics may help diversify gut microbiomes, improving gut health. 

Age

Aging is a factor that affects gut health. As people age, the gut microbe diversity decreases, marked by increased inflammation and digestive issues.

Genetics

The gut microbiome makeup is also dependent on genetics. 

Changes in certain genes can influence the presence or absence of certain gut microbes, thereby influencing gut health.

Medications 

Long-term use of certain medications may affect gut health by altering the microbiome makeup.

For instance, antibiotics, used to treat bacterial infections, can destroy beneficial bacteria in the gut, leading to gut issues like inflammation and digestive problems. 

Many studies report that the use of metformin to treat type II diabetes changes gut microbial patterns, affecting gut health in the long term. 

Method Of Delivery At Birth

A 2016 study reports that the gut microbiome pattern is different between infants born via vaginal delivery and those born by cesarean section. 

According to the study, infants born by vaginal delivery are exposed to the mother’s bacteria at birth, which isn’t the case for infants born through a cesarean section.

10 Signs Of An Unhealthy Gut

Here are ten notable signs of an unhealthy gut.

Food sensitivities

One of the common signs of an unhealthy gut is food sensitivities. The low quality of gut microbes may make it difficult to digest certain types of food, leading to post-meal problems like bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.

Migraines

Migraines cause intense headaches and sensitivities to sound and light. Gut microbe imbalance may play a role in the development of migraines.

Frequent acne breakout

Acne is a skin inflammatory condition that causes skin breakouts. 

Gut issues could be one reason for recurring acne breakouts.

A 2019 study reports that skin acne is closely connected with the gastrointestinal tract and that the gut microbiota may be involved in the development and severity of acne. 

Sleep disorders

The gut plays a role in regulating the circadian rhythm in the body.

The circadian rhythm is the 24-hour internal clock that tells the body when to sleep and when to stay awake. 

Sleep disorders like insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness may all be signs of an unhealthy gut.

Heartburn and GERD

Another telltale sign of an unhealthy gut is Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and frequent heartburn. 

Gut dysbiosis is a condition caused by an imbalance in the gut microbes. 

A 2019 study reports that gut dysbiosis is a common cause of conditions like GERD, irritable bowel syndrome, and colitis. 

Bloating

Bloating is an excess buildup of gas in the GI tract which can make the belly feel tight, full, and uncomfortable, especially after a meal. 

It is mostly a result of digestive issues and hormonal imbalance, both of which are signs of an unhealthy gut. 

Constipation 

Gut dysbiosis can be another cause of frequent or chronic constipation. 

Studies suggest targeting gut dysbiosis using probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) to treat constipation.

Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s way of handling an injury, infection, or sickness and is regulated by the immune system.

The presence of certain types of gut bacteria can trigger the immune system to cause chronic inflammation in all parts of the body. 

Chronic inflammation leads to increased risks of type II diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and even certain types of cancers. 

Weight gain

The inability to maintain a healthy body weight could be a sign of an unhealthy gut. 

The gut microbiomes are responsible for energy expenditure and the absorption of nutrients from food. 

The gut microbes also affect the production of ghrelin, leptin, and peptide YY hormones, all of which affect your appetite. 

An unhealthy gut may lead to lower energy expenditure and nutrient absorption and keep you feeling hungry, leading to weight gain issues.

Mental health issues

The gut and the brain are very closely connected and can affect one another. The gut is called the second brain for this reason. 

Psychological problems can lead to GI issues, while an unhealthy gut can be the root cause of conditions like stress, anxiety, or depression. 

Health Conditions Associated With An Unhealthy Gut

The following are some of the health conditions that could be associated with an unhealthy gut.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Bacteria Imbalance?

A gut bacterial imbalance can show up as chronic digestive issues, skin breakouts, mental health issues, unexpected weight fluctuations, sudden food intolerances, or migraines. 

There are specific tests that can help identify microbiome imbalance levels in the gut. This would help in making precise treatment plans.

7 Most Effective Lifestyle And Diet Fixes For A Healthy Gut

Choose A Diverse Diet 

Including different varieties of plant-based foods in your diet is a very easy way to improve the gut microbiome pattern and general gut health. 

Whole foods are also great for maintaining a healthy gut.

Include Fermented Foods

Naturally, fermented foods contain different types of live microorganisms, which benefit the gut. 

These foods are natural probiotics and must be included in plenty in one’s diet. 

Some of the common types of fermented foods are yogurt, kefir, kombucha, kimchi, and pickled vegetables. 

Limit Consumption Of Processed Food

According to experts, processed foods that contain excess emulsifiers damage the lining of the intestinal walls, promote inflammation, and result in a leaky gut. 

Reducing the consumption of processed food and choosing fresher and more natural ingredients is one way of protecting the gut.

Stay Hydrated

Water is essential for optimal gut health – it helps break down food and prevent constipation and gut inflammation. 

Focus On Prebiotics And Probiotics

Probiotics are supplements or types of food that contain live microorganisms, while prebiotics are food that may help improve the gut microbiomes.

Most fiber-rich foods are prebiotics. 

Including both prebiotics and probiotics would help diversify the microbiome pattern and improve gut health.

Work On Stress Management

Stress affects every single organ in the body, including the gut. 

Studies report that chronic exposure to stress may change brain-gut interactions and trigger gastrointestinal problems like IBD.  

Stay Physically Active

Moderate physical activity is one of the proven ways of diversifying gut microbiota and improving gut health. 

According to a 2016 study, exercise could be an alternative therapy to deal with gut dysbiosis and related conditions.  

What Is The Best Supplement For Gut Health?

There is no one magic supplement that would instantly improve gut health.

Instead, including the following supplements regularly in one’s diet may help improve gut health and diversify gut microbiota.

Other FAQs About Gut Reset

What 3 Foods Are Bad For Your Gut?

Processed foods, deep-fried foods, and artificial sweeteners in excess are three foods that can affect gut health. 

Does Coffee Destroy Gut Bacteria?

Multiple studies report that caffeine in coffee diversifies gut microbiota and helps increase the number of beneficial bacteria growing in the gut. 

How Do You Starve Bad Gut Bacteria?

Bad gut bacteria thrive on processed foods, excess sugar, alcohol, gluten, and dairy. 

Eliminating or restricting these kinds of foods may be a way to starve bad bacteria.


Hand-picked content for you: Beating Bad Gut Bacteria: Starve Them!


What Is The Fastest Way To Improve Gut Health?

There is no quick fix to improve gut health.

Choosing fiber-rich meals, staying away from processed and refined foods, staying physically active, and including probiotic supplements can all help improve gut health over time. 

Summary: 10 Signs Of An Unhealthy Gut

  1. The gut or gastrointestinal system includes the stomach, intestines, and colon and is responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste excretion.
  2. The trillions of microbial cells found in the gut are called the gut microbiome, and the diversity of the microbiome and general gut health affects almost every organ in the body.
  3. Some factors that affect gut health include age, diet, genetics, medications used, and method of delivery.
  4. Abnormal food sensitivities, digestive issues, skin breakouts, sleep disorders, weight fluctuations, inflammation, and mental health issues are some of the signs of an unhealthy gut.
  5. Including naturally fermented foods in your diet, choosing whole foods over processed and refined foods, opting for a plant-based diet, and working on mental stress are ways to heal your gut.
  6. Probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, L-glutamine, psyllium husk, and apple cider vinegar are some supplements that can enhance gut health.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4191858/#:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22797518/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3427212/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s42255-021-00348-0#

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4528021/#

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5483960/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4570153/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4681099/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5062956/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6678709/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6702393/#

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6379309/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4976518/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10096519

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7589951/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4425030/

https://academic.oup.com/ckj/article/16/11/1804/7136173

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3337124/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-023-00904-3#

One of the most important parts of your 23andMe results is the DNA raw data, which contains information on more than 700,000 genetic markers. While only a fraction of these markers are utilized to trace your lineage, the remaining data holds invaluable insights into your health and wellness, including potential risks for certain diseases. Unlocking this wealth of information is straightforward. By following seven simple steps, you can swiftly download your DNA raw data file in under a minute. Xcode Life can then analyze this data to provide ten comprehensive reports, offering you a deeper understanding of your health.



How To Download 23andMe DNA Raw Data?

Step 1

Sign in to your 23andMe account from the 23andMe website

23andMe Raw Data Download - Step 1: Home page, with a pointer and highlighter block around "Sign In"

Step 2

Click on the down arrow near your name from the top navigation bar

23andMe Raw Data Download - Step 2: Circle around the dropdown arrow.

Step 3

Select “Browse Raw Data” as shown below

23andMe Raw Data Download - Step 3: Select browse DNA data. Highlighted using a red box and green arrow.

Step 4

Select ‘Download’

23andMe Raw Data Download - Step 4: Select download. Highlighted using a red box and green arrow.

Step 5

Make sure that you thoroughly go over the disclaimers and warnings provided.

23andMe Raw Data Download - Step 5: Disclaimers and warnings displayed

Step 6

Scroll down to the bottom of the download page until you see the “Submit request” button.

23andMe Raw Data Download - Step 6: Pointer on submit request button

Step 7

23andMe will send you an email notification once your raw data is ready, or you can just refresh your download page. This may take up to an hour

23andMe Raw Data Download - Step 7: Download complete

OR, you can directly access the download page here

A Snippet From A Sample 23andMe DNA Raw Data

Also see, Free tools for 23andMe, AncestryDNA, FTDNA raw data analysis

Final notes:

Your DNA raw data is a file of size 5-7 MB in the .zip format or 16-21 MB in the .txt format.

23andMe’s Security Breach Update: Raw Data Download Temporarily Blocked

23andMe recently sent emails to many customers notifying them of a breach into the “DNA Relatives” feature in their account.

The email read, “There was an unauthorized access to one or more 23andMe accounts that were connected to you through DNA Relatives. As a result, the DNA Relatives profile information you provided in this feature was exposed to the threat actor.”

Further to this, they have also temporarily suspended the download of DNA data (as of 3rd November 2023)

Updated November 3, 2023

You have received your 23andMe kit, promptly spit into it, sealed and sent it back. Now, how long do you wait till you receive your results? While 23andMe mentions an average 4-6 week timeline, some users report getting their results as early as 10 days after 23andMe receives their sample. This article explains the 23andMe process in detail; from placing an order to receiving the reports, while touching upon their services.

About The Company

23andMe is a company that provides direct-to-consumer genetic/DNA testing and analysis. Its primary service is a saliva sample-based direct-to-consumer genetic test that includes information about customers’ ancestry, health, and traits. The company has been the subject of controversy due to its handling of customer data and privacy concerns. The company has over 12.5 million customers worldwide.

23andMe: Process and Timeline

Between registering your 23andMe and getting your results, there are multiple steps.

Let’s have a look at them below:

  1. Creating a 23andMe account on the website and registering a kit
  2. Sending the sample back to the lab
  3. Preparing your sample
  4. Extracting the DNA from your sample
  5. Genotyping the sample
  6. Reviewing the DNA data
  7. Performing the final computation
  8. Uploading the results to your account

Your 23andMe homepage should include information on what step of the process your sample is in and provide the estimated day of result delivery.

How Long Does 23andMe Take? The image shows the timeline of 23andMe process right from a user registering for a DNA kit to them receiving their results.
Image adapted from 23andMe website

How Long Does 23andMe Take?

Once your kit is received at the lab, you should receive your results in 4-6 weeks.

Samples mailed from within the United States can take anywhere between 2-4 weeks to reach the lab.

So overall, it can take up to 10 weeks to deliver your results once you mail your DNA sample back. However, many customers report receiving the results much earlier.

These times are estimates, and the company cannot guarantee that you will receive the reports on the date mentioned.

In the last two years, 23andMe’s wait time appeared to have stayed under 25-30 days, making their service a pretty quick one!

Why Does 23andMe Take So Long?

The following can impact the time it takes to get your results:

  1. The time it takes to receive the kit upon registering
  2. The time it takes to for you to ship the kit back
  3. The shipping time itself
  4. The processing time at the lab
  5. The report generation time

Certain samples may require additional steps to be processed successfully, which can further increase the wait time.



How long does it take to get results from 23andMe UK?

The saliva collection kit is generally dispatched within 1 to 2 business days. There is also express shipping available if needed.

Once you mail them your barcode, which is unique for each kit, your reports will be prepared in approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Once they are ready, you will receive an email notification informing you that your reports can be accessed in your online account.

AncestryDNA vs. 23andMe: Which is Faster?

AncestryDNA has a much bigger database with 18 million users than 23andMe’s 12 million users.

This could mean that the accuracy of the former is latter than the higher.

According to the AncestryDNA website, “it can take up to 5 weeks from the date you mail in a sample for the laboratory to mark it as arrived, and 8 weeks from the date we receive your sample for your results to be ready.”

This means that 23andMe processes your report much quicker (by a couple of weeks to a month) than AncestryDNA.

What Do You Get With The 23andMe Services?

The information in your report depends on the services you have chosen.

23andMe Ancestry + Traits DNA Kit

This provides information about your ancestry traits and ethnicity taking into account over 2000 geographical regions.

It also includes a “DNA relatives” feature that matches you with different people depending on how much DNA you share with them.

You also have an option of viewing your family tree based on this result.

The service further provides information on 30+ non-health traits like fear of heights, earwax types, etc.

23andMe Health + Ancestry DNA Kit

You get all the information from the “Ancestry+Traits kit” and insights into 150+ health traits. This is divided into 3 categories:

  1. Health predispositions
  2. Carrier status
  3. Wellness

23andMe+ Membership

You get all the information from the “Health + Ancestry kit” and access to heart health and pharmacogenetics reports.

Update: Accessing 23andMe DNA Data Amidst The Controversy

An important part of your 23andMe result is the DNA data, which you can easily access and download from your account. 

Your DNA data provides a massive amount of information that can be used to unlock thousands of more things outside what’s covered in 23andMe.

Preview of what your 23andMe raw data looks like

Recently, a hacker advertised that they had stolen millions of “pieces of data,” breaking into the DNA relatives feature that allowed the users to compare ancestry information with users worldwide.

While 23andMe is looking into this and attempting to solve this issue, they have blocked the download of DNA data indefinitely as a security measure.

Here’s how you can submit a request to access your DNA data.

What Other Information Can I Get With 23andMe?

With the information present in your DNA data, you can uncover insights into several aspects of your health and well-being.

To get your DNA raw data, follow the instructions from this page:

How to download your 23andMe Raw Data for 3000+ Health Reports

Summary

Once you ship your DNA kit, it should reach the lab in 2-4 weeks. After this, the lab takes 3-5 weeks to deliver your results. Overall, it can take up to 10 weeks. However, 23andMe has reduced its turnaround time over the last two years, with users reporting receiving results as early as 3-4 weeks. 

The most important part of your 23andMe results is your DNA raw data. The company allows its users to download the raw data, which can be uploaded to many sites like Xcode Life to get insights into additional important health and wellness aspects.

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