Phthalates: Genes, Detoxification, and Diet

Phthalates are a type of chemical used as plasticizers to make plastics more pliable. There has been a lot of research on the endocrine-disrupting effects of phthalates. Your genetic variants may impact whether phthalates are a problem for you.

Fluoride: Understanding Its Effects on Health

Discover the pros and cons of fluoride for dental health and overall wellness, its sources, toxicity levels, and how genetics influence fluoride sensitivity.

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.

Glucuronidation: UGT genetic variants, phase II detoxification

The UGT family of enzymes is responsible for an important part of phase II detoxification. This article explains what the UGT enzymes do in the body, how your genes impact this part of detoxification, and lifestyle factors that can increase or decrease this detox process.

Selenium and Your Genes

Selenium is a trace element found in certain foods. Learn how selenium is used in the body, why it is important, and how genetic variants can make someone more susceptible to problems with a selenium-deficient diet.

Thyroid Hormone Levels and Your Genes

The thyroid is a master regulator controlling many of your body’s systems. It is integral for metabolism and body temperature. Learn more about specific thyroid-related variants and check your genetic raw data.

PCOS: Genetics and Root Causes

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder causing an increase in androgen hormone production in women. It also increases the risk of infertility. PCOS affects 5 -10% of premenopausal women, and genetics plays a large role in whether you have PCOS.

woman with pregnancy test in hand

Genetic links to infertility for women

Your genes may be playing a role in your infertility — and knowing which genetic variants you carry may help you figure out solutions to try.

PTPN22 and Autoimmune Diseases

The PTPN22 gene plays a pivotal role in that balance, and genetic variants (SNPs) in PTPN22 increase your risk of autoimmune conditions such as vitiligo, alopecia, RA, type 1 diabetes, and autoimmune thyroid diseases. (Member’s article)

Genetics and Mannose-Binding Lectin

Mannose-binding lectin, also known as mannose-binding protein, is involved in the body’s innate defense against infections. Find out how genetic variants in this system increase your susceptibility to specific pathogens.

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.

Should you eat organic? Detoxifying Organophosphates

Is buying organic worth the extra cost? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to that question. Pesticides that are sprayed on conventionally grown foods affect people differently. Some people carry genetic variants that decrease their ability to detoxify specific pesticides, others may be more resilient. This is Part Two in a multipart series on pesticide detoxification.