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Over 63,000 cases of Lyme disease were reported in 2022, according to data compiled by the CDC and state health departments. However, this number may be the tip of the iceberg, with estimates suggesting upwards of 476,000 individuals are diagnosed and treated for the disease annually within the United States. Borrelia burgdorferi, a bacterial culprit, transmits this illness primarily through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. These tiny ticks, particularly in their nymphal stage, are often hard to detect while feeding, leading to delayed identification and treatment of the disease. While common symptoms like fever, headaches, and the characteristic rash are widely recognized, Lyme disease can also cause various unusual and severe symptoms. Understanding this broader spectrum is paramount for ensuring timely diagnosis and successful treatment.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. It spreads through bites from infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks.
These tiny ticks are the main carriers, especially in their nymph stage. Their small size makes them hard to spot while feeding.
The black-legged tick culprits are found mostly in the US Northeast, West North Central, and Northwest regions. They prefer areas with grass and woods, where they can easily latch onto animals and humans.
These ticks receive Borrelia burgdorferi from infected birds or animals that they feed on. Once infected, a tick can spread the bacteria to people via its bite, resulting in Lyme disease.
Lyme disease can be an undetectable culprit. Ticks carrying the infection numb the area they bite, making detection difficult, especially for tiny nymphs.
As Dr. Christine Green (director of education at the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society) explains, this can lead to delayed recognition.
But there are clues! After a tick bite, watch for symptoms that appear within 3 to 30 days. These may include:
While these symptoms can mimic other illnesses, see a doctor if you suspect a tick bite or experience any signs for early diagnosis and treatment.
Lyme disease can cause several unusual symptoms that vary greatly between individuals.
If left untreated, it can lead to heart palpitations, vision problems, mental health issues, and nervous and sensory problems.
Lyme carditis
When Borrelia bacteria infiltrate heart tissues, they can cause Lyme carditis, a rare but serious complication with symptoms like:
Neurological symptoms
As Borrelia bacteria persist in the body, they may lead to neurological issues, such as:
Skin changes
Without treatment, Lyme disease can cause additional skin problems:
Vision changes
Lyme disease may also affect vision, resulting in:
This variety of symptoms, including some severe ones, highlights why early diagnosis and treatment are essential for Lyme disease.
After completing treatment for Lyme disease, some patient continue to experience symptoms like fatigue, pain, and aches in their muscles and joints.
These persistent symptoms, lasting over six months, are often referred to as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) and are sometimes called “chronic Lyme disease.”
There is no evidence that these sustained problems result from ongoing bacterial infection.
While recovery may be possible, it can take several months, during which time one’s symptoms slowly lessen.
Healthcare providers might suggest prolonged antibiotic treatment for PTLDS; however, professionals advise against this approach due to possible dangers and a lack of proven benefits.
It can be harmful to use antibiotics over an extended period of time, and they generally do not work on resolving these chronic symptoms.
Late-stage Lyme disease involves severe symptoms, such as:
A 2023 NIH study suggests sex-based differences in Lyme disease, particularly for those with persistent symptoms (lasting over 6 months after antibiotics).
While both men and women can experience Lyme disease symptoms, the study indicates the experience may differ based on biological sex.
Here's what the study found for women:
Lyme disease does not directly affect dental health; it can be considered an indirect factor.
Borrelia burgdorferi itself is not pathogenic in that it can directly injure teeth, but its colonization can induce inflammation and plenty of other issues in the mouth.
It can even cause chronic inflammation of the gums, commonly called periodontitis, which compromises the tissues and bones required to support the teeth.
Teeth loss is not a direct result of Lyme disease. However, as previously indicated, it may accelerate tooth loss through processes associated with chronic periodontitis.
Extracting teeth in people with Lyme disease requires extra caution due to several factors:
Yes, Lyme disease can affect the jaw in several ways:
When Lyme disease presents unusual symptoms, effective management and treatment become crucial for recovery.
Here are the key steps and approaches to handle such cases:
1. Early diagnosis and intervention:
2. Diagnostic tests:
3. Antibiotic treatment:
4. Managing symptoms:
5. Monitoring and follow-up:
Managing and treating unusual Lyme disease symptoms can be more successful with early diagnosis, proper antibiotic therapy, and supportive care measures.
Lyme disease typically shows a favorable response to a short course of antibiotics, with most patients achieving complete recovery. However, the disease can present a complex clinical picture.
Untreated Lyme disease can lead to prolonged symptomatology. Even after receiving appropriate antibiotic treatment, some individuals may experience symptoms that persist for reasons that remain unclear to the medical community.
These ongoing symptoms, including fatigue, pain, and cognitive difficulties, underscore the necessity for continued research and individualized patient management strategies.
Lyme disease can present itself beyond the well-known fever, headaches, and rash.
Unusual symptoms can involve various body parts, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
These unusual symptoms of Lyme disease can include heart issues like Lyme carditis with chest pain and palpitations. Neurological problems, such as Bell's palsy, increased pressure in the head, and nerve damage, are also possible. Skin changes and vision problems can also occur.
Early intervention is crucial to prevent complications, but some individuals may experience lasting symptoms even after treatment.
This shows the need for ongoing research and personalized care plans to manage unusual symptoms effectively.
https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/data-research/facts-stats/index.html
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001319.htm
https://www.healthline.com/health/malaise
https://www.health.com/bells-palsy-overview-7371993
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11586-lyme-disease
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/encephalopathy
https://www.healthline.com/health/arrhythmia
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10284166
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8995919
https://www.healthline.com/health/periodontitis
Would you believe that 1 in 3 females and 1 in 5 males over the age of 50 experience osteoporosis in their lifetime? In fact, osteoporosis is the most common cause of fractures in postmenopausal women and older men. Osteoporosis is a silent condition, which means it does not cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages. This is one of the primary reasons for its delayed diagnosis. Many people do not know they have osteoporosis until they break a bone. While many factors contribute to osteoporosis, the genetics behind it have been unclear. This article breaks down the genetic influences on bone health and explores how your genes may impact your risk of developing osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a bone condition that develops when mineral density and bone mass decrease or when the structure and strength of the bone change.
As a result, bone strength decreases, increasing the risk of fractures.
There are two types of osteoporosis (depending upon the factors that affect bone metabolism):
From 25 to 50 years of age, bone density remains relatively stable.
However, at age 50, the bone breakdown (bone resorption) is greater than bone formation.
As a result, bone loss increases.
In females, it occurs during around menopause.
The risk of osteoporosis is higher in females than males.
Since osteoporosis is a silent disease, the first sign of osteoporosis is usually a broken bone or fracture.
Bones affected by osteoporosis often become fragile and susceptible to fractures that can occur as a result of:
An overwhelming body of research suggests that genetics plays a big role in the development of osteoporosis.
A family history of the condition greatly influences one’s likelihood of developing the condition.
For example, having a sibling with low bone mineral density increases one's risk for the same by sixfold.
Genes that influence bone density and strength, levels of vitamin D and calcium, production of collagen, etc., contribute together to osteoporosis risk.
Genetics contributes to around 75% of bone mineral density.
Osteoporosis is heritable, and heritability ranges from 50 to 83%.
Osteoporosis is a complex condition involving several factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors.
To date, 70+ genetic variants have been found to be associated with osteoporosis.
Some studies have shown that mutations (abnormal changes) in the VDR gene may affect vitamin D and calcium metabolism, reducing bone density.
The collagen type 1 alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) gene gives instructions for producing type 1 collagen.
Type 1 collagen is a major component of bone.
Any abnormal changes or variations in this gene can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
It is essential to understand that having these gene mutations does not mean one will develop osteoporosis.
Other genetic variants that may contribute to the development of osteoporosis include:
Bone morphogenetic protein 2 or BMP 2 activates both osteoblasts (cells that help form new bones) and osteoclasts (cells that dissolve old and damaged bones).
Mutations in this gene can result in mixed signals that may increase the rate of bone loss than bone formation, leading to osteoporosis.
This pathway enables bone repair and maintains bone mass.
When this pathway is interrupted, bone repair is affected, weakening bone.
Few genes that may interfere with this process include- AXIN1, CTNNB1, DKK1, GPR177, JAG1, LRP4, LRP5, MEF2C, RSPO3, SFRP4, SNT16, SOST, WNT4, WNT5B, and WNT16.
This pathway is responsible for producing proteins that help activate and differentiate various types of bone cells.
Gene variants that interfere with this pathway include– NFRSF11, TNFRSF11A, and TNFRSF11B.
This is a process where bone minerals replace the cartilage structure in the bone.
Gene variants that can interfere with this include IBSP, PTHLH, RUNX2, SOX6, SOX9, SPP1, and SP7.
Yes, osteoporosis does run in families.
Certain risk factors of osteoporosis, such as age, sex, and family history, cannot be changed.
However, you can follow a healthy diet and exercise to improve your bone health.
Dietary modifications that you can make to prevent osteoporosis include:
Besides genetics, other risk factors for osteoporosis include:
Both males and females can develop osteoporosis.
However, the risk is highest among post-menopausal white and Asian women.
Diagnosis of osteoporosis usually includes a physical examination, during which the doctor checks for:
Your doctor may also order a test to measure your bone mineral density.
The most common test for measuring bone mineral density is dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).
Here are some ways to prevent osteoporosis:
Unfortunately, osteoporosis is not reversible.
However, the good news is that lifestyle modifications like a nutrient-dense diet, weight-bearing exercises, and supplements can prevent further bone loss.
While you cannot reverse an MTHFR mutation, you can follow the MTHFR diet to manage your symptoms. The MTHFR diet will help tackle the nutritional deficiencies that come with an MTHFR mutation and reduce the risk of developing complications in the long run.
About Xcode Life's MTHFR And Methylation Report
The Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene produces an enzyme of the same name.
This enzyme is involved in methylation, a metabolic process that converts dietary folate (vitamin B9) into its active form, L-Methylfolate.
The MTHFR mutations don’t cause health problems on their own.
However, it can interfere with specific body processes and impair nutrient absorption.
This is why dietary intervention is essential when you have a variant of the MTHFR gene.
You can have one (heterozygous) or two (homozygous) mutations in the MTHFR gene.
The types of mutation on the MTHFR gene are:
Genetic mutations are inherited from parents.
You can either have both variants or one from either of your parents.
If you have an MTHFR gene mutation, your body cannot properly metabolize folic acid into its active form, folate.
This can cause a folate deficiency in the body, along with other nutritional deficiencies.
Vitamin deficiency can increase the risk of cardiovascular and nervous system disorders.
Also, the MTHFR gene is involved in methylation and conversion of homocysteine into methionine.
Methionine is required for proper muscle growth and functioning.
Those with an MTHFR mutation have problems in methylation and fail to eliminate toxins from the body.
Methylation tests are done to evaluate the functionality of the methylation process in the body.
Methylation tests can measure various biomarkers in the body and detect abnormalities.
DNA methylation and homocysteine testing are some of the various methylation tests available.
The DNA methylation test can screen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or genetic changes affecting metabolism, detoxification, hormone balance, etc.
While there’s no specific genetic test to determine if you have the MTHFR mutation, a methylation genetic test can detect abnormalities in biomarkers and a possible mutation in this gene.
People living with a variant MTHFR gene can have difficulty eliminating toxins from the body.
The Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fights and has numerous health benefits.
It can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with an MTHFR mutation.
Also, it can provide adequate nutrition to those with an MTHFR gene mutation.
While evidence suggests a connection between MTHFR mutations, the Mediterranean diet, and obesity, more research is needed to fully understand the complex interactions between these factors and their impact on weight regulation and metabolic health.
Personalized dietary and lifestyle interventions, as well as genetic counseling, may be beneficial for individuals with an MTHFR mutation who are struggling with obesity or weight management.
Here are a few foods that you should avoid if you have an MTHFR gene variant:
Xcode Life's MTHFR and Methylation Report: 15 Genes - 68 Variants - $50 $30
Individuals with MTHFR mutation might have difficulty getting the required folate from their diets.
Methylfolate and vitamin B12 supplements can be beneficial for such people.
However, talk to your doctor before starting any supplements.
This ensures that you take the correct dosage of these supplements.
The MTHFR diet may be recommended for people who live with the MTHFR genetic variants.
Those with a mutation in this gene cannot properly metabolize the amino acid homocysteine.
It can lead to a variety of health conditions ranging from depression to coronary heart disease.
They are recommended the MTHFR diet to offset nutritional deficiencies associated with this genetic condition and to prevent further complications or diseases.
Studies suggest that coffee can increase the homocysteine levels in those with the MTHFR C677T mutation.
So, moderating caffeine consumption may help such individuals.
However, the study also reported that folic acid can help counteract the homocysteine-increasing effects of coffee.
Egg yolks are some of the best sources of the nutrient choline.
Choline helps metabolize homocysteine, an excessive amino acid in people with the MTHFR mutation.
So, ensure that you include eggs in your MTHFR diet.
The MTHFR genetic mutation can cause a deficiency in the B vitamins.
Hence, vitamins B12 and B6 supplements are best for MTHFR genetic mutation.
Genetic mutations are inherited from parents when you are born.
While it is impossible to reverse MTHFR mutation, you can still manage and overcome your symptoms by making several dietary changes.
Medications that reduce the absorption of B vitamins, such as antacids, metformin, and oral contraceptive pills.
Medications that increase homocysteine, including nitrous oxide.
Always talk to your healthcare provider before you decide to stop taking any medication.
The MTHFR gene can undergo mutation, resulting in folate and other nutritional deficiencies in the body.
We recommend following an MTHFR diet to compensate for them and reduce the risk of developing long-term complications.
An MTHFR diet consists of foods high in folate and vitamin B12 since those with the mutation can often have deficiencies for these mutations.
Foods with folic acid and those that can cause inflammation are best avoided.
You can start taking supplements if you have the MTHFR gene mutation.
However, we recommend talking to your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10385141
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32722170
It was long assumed that genes that contribute to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affect the gut and bowel. However, research reveals that most of the genes appear to have roles in the brain and the nerves that supply the gut. Considering these genetic influences, is it possible that IBS has a hereditary component to it? This article discusses both the genetic and environmental contributors to IBS, aiming to provide a clearer understanding of its potential hereditary nature and its impact on your health.
IBS is a well-known condition affecting the digestive system, particularly the stomach and intestines.
It causes abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, pain, bloating, gas, and irregular bowel motions. The intensity differs from person to person.
IBS is chronic, which means it lasts for an extended period of time. While it might be annoying, most people with IBS do not have severe symptoms.
Managing food, lifestyle, and stress can often successfully control symptoms. In some circumstances, medication and treatment may be necessary.
IBS doesn't damage your gut or raise your risk of colon cancer. The focus is on managing symptoms and living well through self-care and medical help.
Research suggests that genes play a part in how likely you are to get IBS.
Imagine each gene as a single brick.
One brick alone might not build a wall, but many working together can create a big barrier. That's how genes in IBS work.
Lots of tiny genetic influences, called polygenes, can raise your risk.
In rare cases, a single faulty gene might be the culprit. But for most people, it's a combination of many smaller genetic effects.
Scientists are still figuring out which specific genes are involved, and so far, they've found very few that definitively contribute to IBS risk.
One exception is a gene called TNFSF15, which appears to promote inflammation in the gut.
There's another layer to the story: epigenetics. These are changes that switch genes on or off without altering the actual DNA code.
For example, early life stress might cause epigenetic changes that make you more prone to IBS later on.
While genes influence IBS risk, your environment and lifestyle also play a significant part.
Researchers recently conducted a genome-wide association study to identify genes that might influence IBS risk.
This investigation involved over 53,400 individuals with IBS and compared them to a control group of 433,201 participants.
The study identified six specific genetic variations (NCAM1, CADM2, PHF2/FAM120A, DOCK9, CKAP2/TPTE2P3, and BAG6) associated with an increased risk of IBS.
Interestingly, these genes were not directly related to gut function itself. Instead, these genes primarily involve brain function and nerve signaling to the gut.
This finding highlights the importance of the brain-gut axis in IBS.
The study also found a strong correlation between IBS risk and genes associated with anxiety, neuroticism, and depression.
This suggests that shared pathways might underlie both IBS and these mental health conditions rather than anxiety simply causing IBS symptoms.
Further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms by which these genes influence brain-gut communication in IBS.
IBS appears to run in families, suggesting genetic and environmental influences.
Several studies have explored the familial patterns of IBS, indicating a higher risk among relatives of affected individuals.
Older research from 2008 found a stronger IBS relationship in parents and siblings, especially between mothers and sisters, than in offspring.
This suggests that immediate family members, particularly those with close genetic ties, are at a higher risk.
A 2010 study quantified the strength of family influence, indicating that individuals with relatives who have IBS are 2–3 times more likely to develop the condition themselves.
This study did not find that spouses of those with IBS have a higher risk.
Researchers recognized the clear family association but were uncertain how much was due to genetic factors versus shared household environmental exposure.
Furthermore, a 2014 study found that the risk of IBS is higher among:
This suggests a potential genetic influence. However, the study also found that spouses of people with IBS are more likely to have the condition, implying significant nongenetic factors like shared environment or lifestyle.
IBS strikes most often in teens and young adults, although it can occur at any age. It's less likely to begin after 50.
Affecting women twice as frequently as men, IBS impacts a significant portion of the U.S. population, with estimates suggesting 10-15% experience its symptoms.
This prevalence makes it the leading reason for gastroenterologist consultations.
While genetics play a role in IBS, other factors can significantly influence its development. Since IBS is a functional GI disorder, the focus lies on the gut-brain connection.
Here's what can contribute to IBS symptoms:
These factors highlight the complex connection between the gut and brain, which causes IBS symptoms.
Irritable bowel syndrome may lack a permanent cure, but effective management strategies exist to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life significantly. The specific approach often depends on the severity of your IBS.
Focusing on stress management and lifestyle adjustments can be highly beneficial for milder cases. This might include:
Dietary changes often involve eliminating:
A dietitian can assist in developing a personalized plan to ensure you receive the necessary nutrients.
For more severe IBS, counseling can be a valuable tool, particularly if stress or mental health concerns are contributing factors. Additionally, various medications might be prescribed by your doctor, including:
There are also medications specifically designed for IBS, such as:
Researchers are exploring fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), which involves transplanting processed stool from a healthy donor to restore gut bacterial balance.
While still under investigation, FMT holds potential as a future option.
Even with hereditary influences, IBS can be effectively managed through a combination of diet, lifestyle, stress reduction, and potentially medication.
Make sure to always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any treatment plan.
Hand-picked Article For You: 10 Important Signs That Could Indicate An Unhealthy Gut
While hereditary IBS cannot be entirely prevented, certain dietary choices may help reduce the risk or alleviate symptoms.
A study released in 2019 via NCBI indicates that polyphenols, with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, may help protect against IBS.
Polyphenols, found in various foods, have been shown to help protect against gastrointestinal disorders.
Incorporating these polyphenol-rich foods into your diet may lower the risk of developing IBS or lessen its symptoms.
Sources of polyphenols include:
Although genetic factors contribute to IBS, adopting a diet rich in polyphenols could be a beneficial strategy in managing and possibly preventing hereditary IBS.
Despite a possible genetic link to IBS, diagnosing it doesn't involve genetic testing. Instead, physicians concentrate on your symptoms.
They will inquire about persistent stomach discomfort, bloating, and alteration in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation) that have lasted at least six months.
A physical examination might assist in ruling out other causes, and you may be asked about your family's health history.
Blood and stool tests are also common to exclude other conditions with similar symptoms.
Ultimately, the diagnosis relies on understanding how your pain relates to bowel movements, frequency, consistency, lifestyle, and dietary habits.
So, while genes may be a factor, a DNA swab is optional. Your experience and ruling out other conditions take center stage in diagnosing IBS.
While IBS can run in families, it's a complex case of inheriting the condition. The answer to "Is IBS hereditary?" is more complicated.
Research suggests genetics contribute to IBS susceptibility. Multiple genes, each with a small influence, can combine to increase your risk.
Interestingly, these genes are more related to brain function and nerve signaling in the gut than gut function, highlighting the mind-gut connection in IBS.
Family studies also show a higher risk of IBS among relatives of affected individuals, but spouses of people with IBS aren't necessarily at higher risk. This suggests environmental factors, like shared diet or stress, might also play a part.
Even with a genetic predisposition, there's hope! Effective management strategies, such as dietary changes, stress reduction, and medication, can significantly improve one's quality of life.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ibs-vs-colon-cancer
https://medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-ibs-genetic
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3056499
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360016
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-021-00950-8
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2873036
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2875200
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24694578
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4752571
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6895345
https://www.healthline.com/health/ibs/is-ibs-hereditary
From connecting with long-lost relatives to a unique gifting option, ancestry DNA testing kits have become increasingly popular. Among the many companies offering ancestry genetic testing services, 23andMe and MyHeritage stand out as two of the most well-known options. Whether you're interested in tracing your family tree, discovering distant relatives, or understanding your genetic predispositions, choosing the right service is crucial. In this article, we'll compare 23andMe and MyHeritage, examining their features, benefits, and key differences to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
Did You Know?
You can download your DNA data from your ancestry test provider and use it to learn everything about your health and wellness, from disease risk and sleep disorders to optimal nutrition and MTHFR status.
23andMe is a biotechnology and personal genomics company that was founded in 2006. It is based out of California and claims to have sold over 12 million DNA kits to date. The brand offers four different services.
MyHeritage is a freemium (free + paid service) genealogy company based out of Israel. The company was founded in 2003 and claims to have access to 18.8 billion historical records collected worldwide.
The company also has 105 million users and offers information in 42 languages.
MyHeritage DNA kit comes with the following features.
Free Tools For 23andMe, AncestryDNA Raw Data Analysis
When you compare MyHeritage vs 23andMe, there are a few similarities to be aware of.
Both are personal genomics companies and offer detailed ancestry exploration services.
The kits from both these companies can be ordered online and received via post. You have to collect the DNA sample and mail it back for the companies to start analyzing.
Both these companies have yearly subscription models, where you can explore your family history and ancestry details throughout the year and keep finding relatives from across the world.
There are a lot of significant differences when you compare MyHeritage vs 23andMe, and the major pointers are captured in the table below.
| Features | 23andMe | MyHeritage |
| DNA sample collected | Saliva | Cheek swab |
| Basic kit prices | Ancestry - $99 | Health + Ancestry - $199 | MyHeritage DNA kit - $89 + shipping |
| Subscription costs | $219 for the kit + $69 for the yearly membership per year | $129 - $299/year |
| Results in | 4-5 weeks | 3-4 weeks |
| Number of years of existence as of 2024 | 18 years | 21 years |
| Types of test | Autosomal DNAmtDNAY-DNA | Autosomal DNA |
| Database size | 2000+ geographical regions | 42 ethnicities and 2,114 regions |
| Products/tools available | Ancestry reports, Family tree, DNA relative finder, Trait reports, Health predisposition reports, Carrier status reports, Traits reports, Wellness reports, Pharmacogenetics reports | Ancestry reports, Family tree, DNA relative finder, Deep Story, AI Time Machine |
| Raw data available for download | Yes | Yes |
| Download Guide | Accessing 23andMe Raw DNA | Accessing MyHeritage DNA File |
If you are looking for exclusive ancestry data, compared to 23andMe, MyHeritage may provide slightly more advanced tools and a more extensive database.
The larger the database, the more accurate the ancestry results could be. The addition of tools like the AI Time Machine, Deep Story, and Ethnicity estimate can also make a MyHeritage account more attractive.
From the ancestry point of view, MyHeritage could provide you with more tools to explore your background.
Some of the tools provided can be accessed for free after creating an account on MyHeritage, which is an advantage.
However, for every other part of personal genomic testing, including health and wellness predisposition, carrier status, and traits, 23andMe could be your only choice.
By choosing the health + ancestry kit from 23andMe, you can access multiple tools and get hundreds of personalized reports.
MyHeritage discontinued its health DNA kits a while back.
So, if you want to understand health predispositions, the traits attached to your ancestry, or how your genes affect your lifestyle choices, then 23andMe should be your choice.
When you compare MyHeritage vs 23andMe, the latter has a slightly better user interface that makes it easy to explore the tools.
Out of the hundreds of reports generated by 23andMe, about 54 of them are FDA-approved.
When you opt for the subscription plan from 23andMe, you can get access to pharmacogenetic reports that may help understand your body’s reaction to different drugs.
In total, the 23andMe health + ancestry kit is more holistic, and you get access to varied categories of reports and tools that MyHeritage doesn’t offer.
Yes. You can submit a request to download DNA raw data in your account on 23andMe. The files are usually sent to the associated email ID within an hour.
To get your 23andMe raw data, follow the instructions from this page:
How to download your 23andMe Raw Data for 3000+ Health Reports
MyHeritage’s ethnicity estimate and ethnicity map are both slightly more insightful. Also, the database used by this brand is more expansive than that used by 23andMe.
MyHeritage offers basic information on most tools without a premium subscription. Unless you want to explore some of the information in-depth, you can get away without subscribing.
For instance, the family tree software of MyHeritage allows you to create a tree with 250 members for free without needing to subscribe.
You can also use many of the photo tools without a premium subscription.
Yes. MyHeritage lets you download DNA raw data to a computer or an Android device.
MyHeritage DNA kits may be a cheaper yet better option for people looking exclusively for ancestry information.
For people interested in learning about how their genes affect other aspects of their lives, including health and wellness, 23andMe kits work the best.
Magnesium is an all-rounder mineral that plays a crucial role in everything from supporting our heart and brain functioning to maintaining our muscle and bone health. Despite its importance, statistics suggest that almost 50% of Americans aren't getting enough magnesium daily. This shortfall can lead to a host of health issues. From sleep disturbances to muscle cramps, this article discusses 11 warning signs of magnesium deficiency and how to ensure you get enough of this essential mineral.
Magnesium supports the function of over 300 enzymes that play a role in numerous body processes like liver detox and digestion, making this mineral essential for a healthy body.
Some key roles of magnesium include supporting muscle relaxation, energy production, bone health, nervous system functioning, and heart health.
Hence, a deficiency of this mineral can wreak havoc on the body.
Magnesium deficiency occurs in the following situations:
Let’s discuss the causes and risk factors of each
Once magnesium enters the body, it must be taken to all the correct places, and enough of it should be reabsorbed in the kidneys during excretion.
Certain genes influence this process:
People with variations in these genes may be at a higher risk of magnesium deficiency due to poor regulation in the body.
Hand-picked Article For You: How Genes Influence Magnesium Requirements
Inadequate magnesium in the diet, certain health conditions and medications, excess excretion, and variations in genes that regulate magnesium levels can all deplete magnesium in the body.
It is important to note that phytic acid and insoluble fiber have numerous health benefits and should be part of your daily diet.
Overconsumption should be avoided to prevent the blocking of magnesium absorption.
Cramping and twitching of muscles is often a sign of magnesium deficiency.
Studies indicate that this could result from an imbalance between calcium and magnesium levels, resulting in excess flow of calcium into nerve cells.
This can overstimulate them, causing them to twitch and cramp.
Fatigue describes both physical and mental exhaustion.
Magnesium is crucial for energy production as it is involved in ATP (energy molecule) synthesis.
Thus, its deficiency can bring energy levels down.
Further, magnesium also impacts potassium levels, which is associated with muscle fatigue.
Magnesium is involved in muscle relaxation, which includes the inner walls of blood vessels.
When the body doesn’t have enough magnesium, the blood vessels may not relax well.
This can cause high blood pressure, increasing the workload on the heart.
Research suggests that magnesium supplements can, in fact, help lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
The favorite nutrient for our bones is calcium and calcium cannot get its work done without magnesium.
Magnesium also helps convert vitamin D to its active form, which is required for calcium absorption.
If deficient in magnesium, it can result in lower levels of calcium, making the bones brittle and weak, thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Magnesium helps the nervous system relax by regulating the activity of key brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) like serotonin and GABA.
Magnesium deficiency could disrupt the neurotransmitter balance, causing mood swings and irritability and increasing the risk of various conditions like anxiety and depression.
A severe magnesium deficiency may result in irregular heartbeats or heart arrhythmia.
Magnesium plays a role in muscle contraction - even the heart muscles. Further, the heart rhythm is maintained by important electrolytes like sodium and potassium.
Hence, optimal levels of magnesium is crucial to lower the risk of arrhythmias.
Magnesium deficiency can increase asthma risk by constricting the airways in the lungs (due to calcium buildup).
A type of magnesium supplement is used in asthma treatment as it helps relax the lung muscles, allowing free air flow.
Melatonin is a hormone that promotes sleepiness.
Magnesium appears to affect melatonin levels, which, in turn, can affect sleep.
Further, magnesium also directly affects sleep through unknown pathways.
Studies suggest that taking magnesium along with melatonin supplements can enhance its sleep-promoting effects.
Magnesium’s role extends to the digestive system as well. It plays a key role in aiding digestion and regulating appetite.
Lower levels of this enzyme can result in inadequate production of digestive enzymes, leading to nausea and loss of appetite.
Calcium is required for signaling in the nerve cells - how they send and receive messages.
Adequate magnesium levels are necessary for calcium to function properly.
When there’s magnesium deficiency, it may cause abnormal nerve function, leading to numbness and tingling, commonly experienced as “pins and needles” sensation.
Magnesium deficiency is common in people with type 2 diabetes.
This is because magnesium increases the sensitivity of fat cells to insulin thereby promoting glucose uptake and reducing blood sugar levels.
Identify your genetic risk factors for magnesium deficiency with a nutrition genetic test
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| Age range | Males (in mg) | Females (in mg) | Pregnancy (in mg) | Lactation (in mg) |
| Birth - 6 months | 30 | 30 | ||
| 7-12 months | 75 | 75 | ||
| 1 - 3 years | 80 | 80 | ||
| 4 - 8 years | 130 | 130 | ||
| 9 - 13 years | 240 | 240 | ||
| 14 - 18 years | 410 | 360 | 400 | 360 |
| 19 - 30 years | 400 | 310 | 350 | 310 |
| 31 - 50 years | 420 | 320 | 360 | 320 |
| > 50 years | 420 | 320 |
Source: ResearchGate
It is important to consult a doctor if you identify signs of magnesium deficiency.
Consuming a diet rich in magnesium or taking supplements (prescribed by a doctor) can help overcome mahogany deficiency.
Further, lifestyle tweaks like cutting down on alcohol, consuming less caffeine, and stress management can also help boost magnesium levels.
By incorporating magnesium-rich foods throughout your day, you can meet 100% of your magnesium requirements.
Here’s a way you can do that:
Magnesium supplements can take a week to start showing results, and it can take around 4 weeks for magnesium levels to come back to normal.
In certain cases of chronic magnesium deficiency, it may take up to 40 weeks.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-deficiency-symptoms
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322191
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/trpm6
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/846
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-deficiency-symptoms
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10506126
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8108907
