- 300 Taraval Street, Suite A San Francisco, CA 94116
- clare@primaryfunctionalmedicine.com
- 415-531-9775
Functional Health and Healing is proud to offer genomics testing in San Francisco. We’ve partnered with IntellxxDNA to provide deep insights into the fabric of your health and well-being.
Your DNA is unique. It’s what makes you… YOU. When we pair your DNA results with functional medicine, you receive a wellness plan fully tailored to what your body needs.
Accelerate your healing with genomics testing. Reach out today to see how you can get started.
Genomics is the study of a person’s entire genome. What’s a genome? The genome is the entire DNA sequence of an organism, including its genes. Your DNA carries instructions for the body’s functions, growth, and development.
Just as a computer needs code to operate, humans need DNA to function. By studying this genetic code, scientists can decipher our unique biological makeup and how our bodies may respond to different factors such as age, environment, stress, and so much more.
This is a tool that is like a window looking into your cells, to see how they function which is extraordinarily useful when it comes to trying to see what is going on inside your body and help guide us to the answer of, “What are we missing?” when it comes to health related issues.
1. Clare Cattarin will initiate the process by ordering your IntellxxDNA kit and providing a login to your online portal.
2. When your test kit arrives in the mail, log into your portal to activate your kit barcode, and follow the instructions in the kit to collect your saliva sample.
3. Mail your kit (postage-free in the USA). We’ll send you an email as soon as your results are available.
4. Schedule an appointment with Clare to discuss your results and begin the process of creating a personalized health plan based on the real you!
Genomic testing provides us with insights into our genetic makeup, shedding light on potential health risks and benefits. But what does that look like in practice? Most people don’t need a chart of their DNA, they need relief from chronic illness and other health conditions. Let’s delve into some examples of how a functional medicine practitioner might apply genomic test results to an individual’s wellness plan.
Autoimmune Disease and Genomics
Autoimmune diseases arise when the immune system, which is responsible for fighting off pathogens, mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are classic examples of these conditions. Genomic testing has become an invaluable tool in identifying genetic markers associated with an increased predisposition to these conditions. If a family member has had autoimmune diseases before, you’ll want to look into genomic testing in San Francisco.
Research has shown that certain genomic variants increase susceptibility to autoimmune conditions. For instance, the HLA gene family has specific variants that have been strongly associated with the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
Armed with knowledge of one’s genetic risks, individuals can make preemptive changes in their lifestyle. Certain diets, such as the autoimmune protocol (AIP), emphasize eliminating foods that may trigger an autoimmune response and reintroducing them gradually to identify potential triggers. Additionally, stress management techniques and regular exercise can also be beneficial in managing or reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Genomics and Cognitive Decline
Diseases that involve cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer’s disease, have both environmental and genetic factors. Understanding these genetic markers can be essential in preventive care. Don’t forget that our environment can influence genetic expression. This is called epigenetics.
The APOE gene, particularly its ε4 variant, has been identified as a significant genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals with one or two copies of this variant have an increased risk of developing the condition.
Knowing one’s genetic risk can pave the way for early interventions. Cognitive exercises such as puzzles, memory games, and regular reading can help in maintaining cognitive function. Furthermore, a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other brain-healthy nutrients can support cognitive health. Some studies also suggest that supplements like turmeric and green tea might play a role in supporting cognitive function and slowing down cognitive decline.
Genomics and Thyroid Response
The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, energy, and mood. Genomic insights into how one’s body might respond to thyroid hormones can be crucial for effective treatments. Genes such as DIO1 and DIO2 influence the conversion of the thyroid hormone T4 to its more active form, T3. Variants in these genes can affect this conversion process, impacting how the body responds to thyroid hormones.
Understanding one’s genetic makeup in relation to thyroid function can guide treatment. For individuals with certain genetic variants that affect hormone conversion, they may benefit more from combination therapy (T4 and T3) rather than the standard T4-only therapy. Regular monitoring and adjustments based on symptoms and blood tests, combined with genetic insights, can result in a more effective, personalized treatment plan for thyroid-related conditions. Feel better by treating your thyroid conditions. Start with genetic testing in San Francisco.
Your DNA is unique, and within it are variants, or SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms). These SNPs can signal potential benefits and risks that lie within your DNA. IntellxxDNA’s reports provide a comprehensive look into the interplay between these variants and how they might affect your quality of life.
Of course, it takes training to interpret results. That’s where Clare Cattarin, MSN, FNP, IFM-CP can help. With well-researched, evidence-based intervention strategies, she provides you with potential action plans. These cover various areas – environment, lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, and medications – that can guide discussions with your clinician to tailor a health plan specific to your needs.
Functional medicine looks at the root cause of disease, focusing on the body as an integrated whole. Genomic testing naturally complements this approach, offering personalized insights that can guide treatment strategies. By understanding one’s genetic predispositions, functional medicine can truly tailor its approach, ensuring treatments and interventions are as personalized and effective as possible.
IntellxxDNA stands at the forefront of genomic testing, providing detailed insights into one’s genetic makeup. In partnership with Functional Health and Healing, these results become the cornerstone of a comprehensive health plan. While IntellxxDNA provides the testing and results, Functional Health and Healing ensures these insights are translated into actionable steps towards better health. Get started with genomics testing in San Francisco!
Your DNA is the blueprint of who you are. By understanding it better, you can make informed choices about your health. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of personalized wellness, schedule a discovery call with Functional Health and Healing today. Your future self will thank you.
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Then let’s get ridiculously healthy!
Primary Functional Medicine Center in San Francisco California – making healing affordable, personalized, and convenient.