You might remember me telling you about epigenetic testing, one of the exciting frontiers of modern medicine. It can provide information that isn’t available anywhere else, even in a more standard genetic test, and it has big implications for healthcare. I’ve explained the basics of how it works, so now I’m going to look in a bit more detail at whether or not you should be choosing this particular method (https://longevity.technology/lifestyle/why-should-you-consider-an-epigenetic-test-exploring-its-benefits/).
Remember that epigenetic testing is not just about which genes you have but also how they express themselves. Which genes are active or inactive? How do your environment and lifestyle influence their expression? What does this mean for your overall health?
One of the biggest advantages of epigenetic testing is the degree of specificity. It’s your unique combination of genes and your unique ways of expressing them. This means that any therapeutic interventions can be narrowly tailored just for you rather than taking a broader but not always as effective approach. No one else’s body reacts to stress in the exact same way as yours does, so why should you manage it with the exact same treatments?
Another advantage is in the realm of early diagnosis, which is always one of the most important aspects of any treatment program. It may identify your risk of developing certain diseases before you show any symptoms. This allows you to adjust your lifestyle and take preventative measures before the condition has the chance to progress.
It doesn’t stop with diagnosis; epigenetic testing isn’t a “one and done” deal. You can continue to test and track the changes in your gene expression, which means you can see if lifestyle changes are working to reduce your risk and improve your health. Seeing your own progress can be a powerful motivator that encourages you to keep going.
There are loads of specific aspects of health you can focus on with epigenetics, including mental health or aging. You just need to make sure you understand the often complex data gathered and that you’re aware of ethical concerns, particularly surrounding privacy, unexpected revelations, and informed consent.
It’s expensive, but if you can afford it, epigenetic testing is a great way to better understand all the unique traits and foibles of your own body, allowing you to feel more empowered as you make decisions about your health tailored to your specific situation.
