5 Reasons to Integrate Genetics into your Nutrition Consultation: Fundamental Today, Essential Tomorrow
8/23/24
✍🏼 Marta Alonso
In the world of nutrition, there is no one-size-fits-all. Each individual is unique, with their own set of genes that influence how foods and nutrients are processed. This is why the integration of genetics into nutrition consultation is considered an invaluable tool for both health professionals and their patients. In this post, we review the reasons why genetic testing in nutrition consultation has become a must-have in recent years:
Increased Adherence
When patients understand what their genetic tendency is or how their genes affect their metabolism, they are more motivated to follow a personalized eating plan or strategy. By understanding the connection between their genetics and their health, they are more likely to commit to lasting dietary and lifestyle changes.
Deep Knowledge of the Patient
Genetic information provides a unique insight into an individual’s health profile. From the ability to metabolize certain nutrients to the predisposition to certain health conditions, genetics reveals important aspects that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Reinforcement of Clinical Suspicions
Health professionals' clinical suspicions can be supported or refuted by genetics. For example, if a patient has difficulty losing weight despite following a healthy diet and exercising, genetics might reveal a genetic predisposition to obesity or specific metabolic issues, as well as conditions like celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or lactose intolerance.
Personalization of Treatment
With genetic information in hand, nutritionists can design specific eating plans that align with the unique needs and characteristics of each patient. This includes recommendations on what foods to consume, how to distribute meals, and which supplements may be beneficial.
Improvement of Long-Term Outcomes