avatarDr Mehmet Yildiz

Summary

The author, a technologist and biohacker, shares their experience with DNA testing and the insights gained from epigenetics.

Abstract

The author, a technologist and biohacker, shares their experience with DNA testing and the insights gained from epigenetics. They explain that while DNA testing is controversial and can cause anxiety for some people, they found it to be an essential investment in their health goals. The author got their DNA tested and discovered their heritage and current genetic status, which provided useful insights for taking proactive actions. The author also emphasizes the importance of epigenetics, which allows individuals to turn on good genes and turn off bad genes through lifestyle choices.

Opinions

  • The author has a positive view of DNA testing and sees it as an essential investment in

Health and Well-Being

My DNA Tests Gave Me Valuable Insights.

Challenging genetic constraints by leveraging epigenetics

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

As a technologist and sensible biohacker, genetics and epigenetics have been a keen interest for me. From a technological standpoint, I consider genetic studies an innovative and valuable technology. From a personal development standpoint, awareness of optimism of epigenetics is an insightful life perspective.

Information from our genes is considered evil and unnecessary by some people. The common belief is evident in the literature. I also experienced this in my personal life.

For example, my family physician did not support my choice of DNA testing. One of them believed that it could concern me unnecessarily. Another physician characterized it as a waste of money. I have compassion and respect for opponents' views as they have personal and scientifically proven reasons.

DNA testing for personal information is a controversial topic globally. There are mainly three groups. People in the first group support it. Those who are in the second group are against it. People in the third group are unaware or do not care about it.

Those who are against it mainly concerned about the unnecessary anxiety it creates for the future events estimated in the test reports. For example, some limited studies confirmed anxiety-inducing situations for DNA test data.

For example, the study titled “Learning one’s genetic risk changes physiology independent of actual genetic risk” reflects these concerns.

Even though I agree with the negative implications of DNA information for some people, my personal view is different. I see DNA testing as a mirror of our future health reflected from our past (genetic code). Our genes determine our health to some extent, but environmental, emotional, mental, and biological factors play substantial roles too.

There are various genetics tests. The most common ones are carrier testing, newborn screening, forensic testing, ancestral testing, diagnostic, predictive, and pre-symptomatic testing. My interest was in the last two.

My open and growth mindset compelled the information and insights from the DNA tests. I saw it as an adventure and prepared myself for the process. Before taking my DNA tests, I conditioned myself that this was the only indicative information. It did not mean that I had the indicated condition.

It did not guarantee that I would catch this estimated disease to be caused by my faulty genes. This conditioning was beneficial in preventing me from potential anxiety.

I got my DNA tested, paying substantial fees several years ago. When the results arrived, I saw two crucial benefits of the test results. I considered this an essential investment in my health goals.

The first benefit is to discover my heritage. My gene pool was from five different cultures. I am excited about the diverse gene pool for my genetic makeup. The predominant one represented my daily behavior and overall health performance. The dietary recommendation based on my ancestors were useful.

The second important point reflected in my DNA tests was my current genetic status and the risk factors for my health based on gene types. The report came with a broad data set but a limited explanation. They referred to qualified health professionals to interpret the data.

This health information provided useful insights to take necessary actions for me proactively. Contrary to claims about the anxiety-inducing aspect of DNA tests, knowing my weaknesses and risks did not create concerns for me.

The knowledge of epigenetics helped me become a better consumer of DNA tests. As DNA data is comprehensive and convoluted, I also leveraged the expertise of genetics consultants to interpret data in detail. The insights are worth the investment.

The body of knowledge in genetics teaches us our genes can determine our future. However, the emerging discipline of epigenetics informs that our genes can be turned on or off by other factors such as diet, nutrition, stress levels, environment, and more.

Turning on good genes and turning off bad genes is an empowering capability.

For example, while one of my parents is diabetic, I am not because, with my DNA information, I adjusted my diet to keep my insulin levels in an optimal state. There are many more examples like this in my transformation journey.

Epigenetics is an emerging science focusing on changes in organisms caused by changes in gene expression rather than changes in the genetic code itself.

When I learned more about epigenetics, my outlook on life's situations became more optimistic and joyful. I learned that we are not slaves of our genes anymore.

We have the power to turn on the good ones and turn off the bad ones based on our life choices and actions. It is refreshing to have such a compelling option in life. This unique and compelling information can help us re-design our life based on our goals and objectives.

For example, staying in ketosis had noticeable epigenetic effects on my metabolic health, preventing me from inheriting diabetes and neurological disorders, as mentioned in various articles.

Here’s How Stress Impacts Us at a Genetic Level and How to Address It with Lifestyle Changes.

Thank you for reading my perspectives. I wish you a healthy and happy life. If you enjoyed this article, you might check some of my personal stories that might provide valuable perspectives.

Thank you for reading my perspectives. I wish you a healthy and happy life.

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