What is nutrigenetics?
Nutrigenetics studies how variants in your DNA influence the way your body processes nutrients. While traditional dietary recommendations are generic —”eat more vegetables, less fat”—, nutrigenetics goes one step further and personalises nutrition based on your genetic profile.
This is not a miracle diet or pseudoscience: nutrigenetics is based on robust scientific associations between specific genetic variants and the metabolism of particular nutrients.
Key nutrigenetics examples
Lactose intolerance
The MCM6/LCT gene regulates lactase production in the gut. A specific variant (rs4988235) determines whether you keep producing lactase into adulthood or your capacity declines. In Spain, about 30-40% of the population has a genetic predisposition to lactose intolerance. Knowing your genotype lets you decide with data whether you need to avoid dairy or can consume it without worry.
Caffeine metabolism
The CYP1A2 gene determines whether you are a fast or slow caffeine metaboliser. Slow metabolisers keep caffeine in the blood longer, which has been linked to higher cardiovascular risk with high coffee intake. If you are a slow metaboliser, limiting intake to 1-2 cups a day may be preferable.
Coeliac predisposition
HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes are necessary (though not sufficient) to develop coeliac disease. If you carry neither allele, the chance of being coeliac is practically nil. HLA genotyping is especially useful in first-degree relatives of coeliac patients and in cases with doubtful serology.
Folate and MTHFR
The C677T variant of the MTHFR gene reduces the activity of the enzyme converting folic acid into its active form (5-methyltetrahydrofolate). Homozygous (TT) people may have elevated homocysteine and lower availability of active folate. In these cases, supplementing with the methylated form of folate may be more effective than conventional folic acid. This is especially relevant for women planning a pregnancy.
Vitamin D
Variants in the GC (vitamin D transport protein), CYP2R1 and VDR genes influence circulating levels and your body’s ability to use vitamin D. Some people need more intense supplementation to maintain adequate levels, regardless of sun exposure.
Omega-3 and lipid metabolism
FADS1 and FADS2 genes regulate the conversion of essential fatty acids into their biologically active forms (EPA and DHA). People with variants reducing this conversion may particularly benefit from direct intake of long-chain omega-3 (oily fish or fish oil supplements).
Who is nutrigenetics useful for?
- People who want to optimise their nutrition in a personalised way.
- Athletes looking to adjust macronutrients and supplementation.
- Women planning pregnancy (folate, vitamin D).
- People with undiagnosed food intolerances.
- Nutrition professionals seeking evidence-based tools.
Your nutrigenetic profile at OmicaLabs
Our personal genome (GenePortal) report includes a complete nutrigenetic panel analysing the most relevant variants for your nutrition. From your genome data, we provide concrete recommendations based on the most current scientific evidence.
Because eating well starts with knowing your DNA. Discover your nutrigenetic profile here.