Your weight is controlled, in part, by your brain. There is a complex feedback system that lets your brain know how much energy you have stored — and a hardwired drive to eat when your brain thinks you need more food. This article dives into the science of ghrelin, a hormone involved in the appetite control system. We will explore how ghrelin controls appetite and then explain the genetic variants that link ghrelin to weight gain.

A recent phase II clinical trial showed significant improvements in cognitive scale scores for Alzheimer’s patients. Importantly, these are natural supplements that are readily available. Plus, it is rare to see a clinical trial with positive results in Alzheimer’s after just 3 months! I’m going to break down what was used in the clinical trial as well as dig into the background science of why these supplements hold such promise.

In aging, muscle mass declines, as does physical performance. Stopping age-related muscle loss is important for healthspan and overall wellness in aging. For example, more muscle mass may protect you from falls and from osteoporosis. Hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) is a metabolite of leucine, an amino acid. Studies have shown beneficial effects of supplements hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate on muscle mass and strength, including in aging.[ref][ref] It is now a popular body building supplement.

These two natural supplements are used for breaking up clots or microclots. I’ve dug into the research studies and pulled together the highlights for you. I also explain how the clotting cascade works and where nattokinase and lumbrokinase act within the process. Finally, I discuss other supplements that may work well together with nattokinase, and members can see their genetic raw data related to SNPs that increase the risk of clotting.

Wondering how accurate your data is from 23andMe? Trying to decide between Ancestry.com or 23 and Me? I recently picked up an AncestryDNA kit to find out how well the raw data matched up to the 23andMe test that I did a few years ago. Below is the link to the full scoop — my results from comparing the 23andMe and AncestryDNA files, along with comparisons with my parents data to sort out discrepancies.

Key takeaways: ~ Nickel allergy is very common and causes a rash after contact. ~ Systemic reactions can occur with foods higher in nickel, causing gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and eczema. ~ Genes play a role in susceptibility to nickel allergy. ~ A couple of natural supplements may help with reactions. Nickel Allergies: Genetics, Symptoms, Foods Nickel allergy is a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis (rash). It is estimated that 8–20% of people are sensitive to nickel.[ref][ref]

Did you know that some people secrete their blood type in their saliva, intestinal mucosa, and semen? Why is this a big deal? Well, in your intestinal mucosa, being a non-secretor means that you are likely to have an altered gut microbiome. However, being a non-secretor also gives you superpowers against certain viruses… You can dive deep into the research and see your secretor status from your 23andMe, AncestryDNA, etc data here:

MTHFR Mutation: What is it? How to check your raw data. - Genetic Lifehacks Key takeaways: ~ The MTHFR gene impacts how your body utilizes folate (vitamin B9) for creating neurotransmitters…www.geneticlifehacks.com ~ The MTHFR gene impacts how your body utilizes folate (vitamin B9) for creating neurotransmitters, detoxifying toxicants, and maintaining a healthy heart. ~ Genetic variants can impact how well this gene works. ~ Optimizing diet and supplements related to methylation may impact several aspects of wellness.

(https://www.geneticlifehacks.com/blood-pressure-mthfr-and-riboflavin/) Key takeaways: ~ A common MTHFR variant increases the relative risk of high blood pressure. ~ Diet and/or supplements can help mitigate the risk and lower high blood pressure. MTHFR and High Blood Pressure Do you deal with higher blood pressure? One gene linked to hypertension is MTHFR, and understanding your risk here can…