Heart Health

Heart disease is the number one cause of death, making heart health a priority for everyone!

Heart disease, though, is a catch-all term that applies to many different conditions. These articles will show you where your genetic susceptibility lies – and what to do about it.

Member’s: Check out the Heart Health Topic Summary Report for a quick overview of all your genetic variants related to heart health.

Blood pressure, MTHFR, and riboflavin

The common MTHFR C677T variant increases the relative risk of high blood pressure. Learn how to add more Riboflavin (B2) into your diet to reduce risk.

ADRA1A Receptors: Blood vessel reactions under stress

We have many systems in place to control blood pressure and heart rate. The ADRA1A receptors are part of this system. Discover how variants can influence blood vessel stress response and how others are connected to cognitive changes.

7 genetic variants that increase your risk of blood clots

Some people are unique in their ability to form clots more easily. This article covers six different genes and the seven genetic variants that increase the risk of blood clots. It is a timely topic because blood clots seem to be a severe complication for people with COVID-19.

Spike Protein, Mast Cells, Histamine, and Heart Rhythms

Do you know of someone with unexplained heart palpitations, spiking blood pressure, dizziness, and tinnitus? Discover how research is linking these symptoms to histamine, mast cells, and the spike protein.

Lipoprotein a: How to check your genetic data for Lp(a)

High Lp(a) levels are a big risk factor for sudden heart attacks. Your Lp(a) levels are mainly controlled by your genetic variants. Check to see if you carry genetic variants that increase or decrease Lp(a).

Von Willebrand Factor Deficiency

von Willebrand disease is a bleeding disorder in which blood doesn’t clot properly. Discover how genetic mutations cause the von Willebrand factor not to perform as it should.

Genes that Impact Ferritin Levels

Ferritin is the storage protein for iron in the body. Storing too little or too much iron can be an indicator of an underlying problem. Discover the genetic variants that impact ferritin and how to increase ferritin with supplements or foods.

What is YOUR risk of heart disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is heritable. Understanding your genes and a ‘heart healthy’ lifestyle can prevent heart attacks and death.

LDL Cholesterol Genes

Your genes combine with your diet to influence your LDL cholesterol level. Learn more about why LDL cholesterol levels may matter in heart disease and find out how your genes are important here.

Elevated Fibrinogen: Risk factor for blood clots

Fibrinogen is a protein that is essential for creating blood clots when you get a wound. But higher levels of fibrinogen are a major risk factor for heart disease and DVT. Learn how your genes impact your fibrinogen level.

Will Aspirin Prevent Heart Disease for You?

While large population studies show the benefits of aspirin, research shows that these heart-health benefits are dependent on your genes. Find out more and check your genetic raw data.

Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS3): Heart health, blood pressure, and healthy aging

Nitric Oxide Synthase is an important signaling molecule in the endothelium of our blood vessels. It has roles in the regulation of blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, brain health, and more. Genetic variants in nitric oxide genes are important for a healthy heart. Find out how your genes could play a part in the interactions with cardiovascular disease risk and blood pressure.

Hypertension Risk Factor: CYP11B2 Variant

Hypertension risk can be modifiable in terms of diet and exercise however genetics can play a part in risk. Learn more about how the CYP11B2 variant can increase the risk of hypertension.

Triglycerides: Genes that cause high triglyceride levels

High triglycerides are linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Both genetics and diet combine to elevate triglyceride levels. Learn how your genes interact with what you eat to lower your triglycerides.

Building Up Iron: Hemochromatosis mutations

A couple of common mutations can cause you to build up iron, leading to iron overload or hemochromatosis. It is one genetic disease where knowledge is really powerful – you can completely prevent hemochromatosis through blood donations.

Plant Sterols for Lowering Cholesterol? Depends on Your Genes

Plant sterols are known as a ‘heart-healthy’ way to lower cholesterol. But, it turns out that they may only lower cholesterol only in people with certain genetic variants. Check your genes to see if adding plant sterols is worthwhile for you.

Advanced Glycation End Products

One cause of many of the diseases of aging is the buildup of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Your genes interact with your diet – and cooking methods – in the build-up of AGEs. Learn whether this is something that is important for you to focus on. (Member’s article)