You may have heard of people getting their genes tested for a full rundown on their lineage, genetic history, and makeup. It is especially growing in popularity in the last few years since the process has never been so fast, simple and affordable than it is now. The appeal behind it is that genetic testing will give you a full understanding of your genetic history and what region of the world that you come from. It can also inform your racial makeup and give you a better idea of what makes your family tree unique.
1. Testing your DNA is surprisingly easy
All you have to do is order a DNA testing kit from a qualified genetic testing lab, such as CRI Genetics. Once the kit arrives, swab the inside of your mouth to provide a sample of your DNA through your saliva, and then seal it and ship it back. The kit has everything you will need to start your journey and discover who you truly are.
In 6 to 8 weeks, you will receive the results of your genetic testing kit through an e-mail that will clearly detail and outline your maternal haplogroup, your paternal haplogroup, your ancestry composition, whether or not you are related to prominent figures or famous people, and your genetic timeline. DNA testing has many benefits, but did you know it can also be very good at helping you make healthier decisions? Here are a few ways that genetic testing gives you a better understanding of your own health:
2. Genetic testing can shine a light on family illnesses
Certain family lineages can have genetic predispositions to certain illnesses. This means that the person that shares the same DNA as the rest of the family has a stronger likelihood of developing the disease. This is not to say that the genes cause the disease itself, though they can contribute to the development of certain cancers, diseases, and other conditions.
It is also not a guarantee that just because a condition “runs in the family” that you or a sibling will get the disease, but it is something you should watch out for. A genetic testing kit will help you find out who you are most closely related to and from there, you can look into family medical history. It can also outline your genes that you received from your mother and father which can specify which genetic lineage you follow the most. That way, if a disease runs in your father’s family history for example, you can cater your health plan to better prepare for that disease.
3. Genetic testing can reveal genetically imposed allergic diseases
Much like with the genetically predisposed diseases, there can also be genetically predisposed allergies. While environmental factors most often contribute to the likelihood of having an allergy, there is some strong evidence to suggest that genetics have a significant impact on whether or not a patient will have certain allergies. Understanding your genetic background can help you identify these allergies and determine the best course of action in dealing with them
4. It can also inform you on the health of a future child if you plan to conceive
If you plan on starting a family, knowing a full rundown of your genetic makeup is important in predicting the health of your future child. Just like how predisposed genetic conditions may affect you, they may also affect your child. Knowing what to expect is the best way to protect your child and a good way to do that is to get a genetic test.
