Nutrigenomix Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQs Nutrigenomix

What is Nutrigenomics testing?

Nutrigenomics testing analyzes how your genes affect the way your body responds to foods, beverages, supplements, and exercise. Because your DNA never changes, this one-time test reveals your unique nutrient needs, potential sensitivities, weight management strategies, and fitness responses, giving you a lifelong blueprint for optimal health and performance.
LookHealth has partnered with Nutrigenomix to provide comprehensive and reliable genomic insights, designed to help improve your health and performance through personalized nutrition and fitness recommendations.
Using a simple cheek swab, your DNA is analyzed for specific nutrition-related genetic markers to create a personalized nutrition and fitness report. The test looks at genetic variations that influence nutrient metabolism, eating habits, weight management, body composition, food intolerances, and physical activity.
Your personalized recommendations will cover:
- Nutrient metabolism
- Food intolerances and sensitivities
- Cardiometabolic health
- Weight management and body composition
- Eating habits
- Exercise physiology, fitness, and injury risk

Who can benefit from taking a Nutrigenomics test?

The test is ideal for anyone looking for personalized nutrition and lifestyle recommendations based on their unique genetic profile.
It’s especially useful for athletes, individuals with dietary sensitivities, and those who want to optimize their health and performance through science-backed lifestyle changes.

What are the main benefits of nutrigenomics testing?

DNA-based recommendations can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support optimal health and performance.
Research shows that people who receive DNA-specific advice are more motivated to adopt healthier eating habits and make lasting dietary and fitness changes compared to those following general guidelines.

How are Nutrigenomix’s recommendations more effective than general nutrition guidelines?

Scientific evidence shows that many people need more (e.g. vitamin D) or less (e.g. sodium) of certain nutrients than general dietary guidelines recommend to achieve optimal health. Genetic testing is the most effective way to determine which nutrients or bioactives your body needs, providing far more personalized and precise recommendations than standard dietary guidelines.
For example, general recommendations suggest limiting caffeine intake to no more than 4 cups of coffee per day. However, research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that about 50% of people have the ‘slow’ metabolizer version of the CYP1A2 gene. This variant increases the risk of heart disease when consuming more than 2 cups of caffeinated coffee daily.
With this test, you’ll learn whether you are a slow or fast caffeine metabolized based on your CYP1A2 gene. If you are a slow metabolizer but follow general recommendations (up to four cups), your risk for heart disease, hypertension and prediabetes increases. This same principle applies to many other nutrients, vitamins, and macronutrients, making DNA-based guidance much more tailored and effective.

Can children take the Nutrigenomix test?

Yes, DNA samples can be submitted for children of any age. Since genetic makeup does not change over time, the results will remain the same regardless of age.
However, please note that the recommendations in the report are based on research conducted in adult populations.

How do I collect my DNA sample?

Collecting your sample is quick and easy with a simple cheek swab.
Step-by-step instructions are included in your kit, and you can watch the short video guide here

How accurate are the Nutrigenomix results?

Nutrigenomix test results are between 99.7% and 100% accurate.

How long does it take to get my results?

Your report will be posted to your LookHealth portal within 2 weeks from the time the lab receives your sample.
You will receive an email notifying you when your results are ready.

What’s the difference between the Health and Sport reports?

While both reports are based on the same genetic markers, each one is tailored to a specific area of focus:
- ‍Health: Designed to help individuals seeking general well-being, with recommendations for weight management, cardiometabolic health, and fitness. ‍
- Sport: Provides nutrition and performance recommendations to help active individuals and athletes boost physical and mental performance while optimizing body composition and nutritional status.

How does the information vary between the health and sport reports?

Caffeine is a helpful example. While the CYP1A2 gene, which affects caffeine metabolism, is analyzed in both reports, each one customizes the interpretations based on your goals:
- The Health report focuses on how caffeine consumption and your genotype influence the risk of heart attack and hypertension.
- The Sport report highlights how caffeine impacts endurance performance while still identifying potential heart health risks.
While the core recommendation (e.g., to reduce caffeine intake if you are a ‘slow’ metabolizer’ is similar across reports, the reasoning behind the advice changes based on your focus. For example: a ‘slow’ metabolizer would be advised to limit caffeine to 200 mg/day to reduce cardiovascular risk in the Health report, or to optimize performance in the Sport report.

What if new panels become available after I’ve already taken the test?

Nutrigenomix stores your sample for this reason, allowing you to access new panels as they are released, and at a discounted rate.
Your stored sample can be reanalyzed without needing to provide another sample.
Your sample is only linked to a barcode, with no personal information attached, and it can be destroyed upon request.

How is my personal information protected?

Each sample is anonymized using a unique barcode, which is entered into a password protected online system.
Nutrigenomix uses a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protocol with 256-bit encryption, the same standard used by online banks, to ensure your data cannot be viewed, intercepted or altered.
The lab only stores your de-identified sample linked to the barcode. No personal information is stored at the lab.
You may request to have your DNA sample destroyed after testing. Nutrigenomix stores samples so you can access future test panels at a discounted rate without providing a new sample.
Neither Nutrigenomix nor LookHealth will ever share your personal information or genetic data with third parties, except as necessary to provide services you’ve requested or as required by law.
Nutrigenomix does not test for any genetic markers related to paternity, familial relationships, or forensic identification.

How secure is my personal information?

Nutrigenomix is the only DNA testing company that ensures anonymity of all samples and uses the most stringent standards for secure data transfer, privacy and security.

Is this test eligible for insurance coverage?

Your DNA test and services may be covered under your health benefits plan or Health Spending Account.
LookHealth will provide a detailed receipt for a registered dietitian consultation if applicable.

Is Shipping included?

Yes, we cover shipping to you and back to the lab.

What is the return policy on Nutrigenomix’s tests?

Due to the nature of our services, all sales are final and non-refundable. If you have any questions or concerns, our team is happy to assist you.

What is the meal plan add-on?

The meal plan is an optional supplement to your genetic test results, providing you with recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Each recipe is tailored to your specific genetic markers and personal dietary goals.
The meal plan accounts for specific gene variants that influence how your body processes fats, carbohydrates, caffeine, and other nutrients. For example, if you’re genetically sensitive to saturated fat, your plan will reduce certain animal fats and include more plant-based or unsaturated fats.
Recipes also accommodate genetic sensitivities such as lactose intolerance or salt sensitivity, and emphasize beneficial nutrients like higher Omega-3 when appropriate.
Many health benefits plans cover dietitian services. LookHealth will provide a detailed receipt for insurance reimbursement whenever applicable.

How can I order the meal plan add-on?

You can select the meal plan during your Nutrigenomix test checkout or add it later from your dashboard. After purchase, you’ll receive a short intake form so we can tailor the plan to your dietary needs and health goals.
Once your consultation is complete, your personalized meal plan will be available in your portal as a downloadable PDF.

Is the meal plan covered by my health benefits plan?

Many health benefits plans include coverage for dietitian services. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm if services from a dietitian registered in their province are eligible under your plan.
If applicable, we will provide a detailed receipt for insurance reimbursement.

What is the Validated Dietary Intake Assessment / Food Frequency Questionnaire that was emailed to me when I ordered the 70-gene test?

Nutrigenomix is the first and only genetic testing company to offer a validated dietary assessment questionnaire, which is a photo-based Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). This questionnaire helps identify which of your DNA-based nutrition recommendations are currently being met by your diet and which areas may require more attention.
When you complete the FFQ, you will receive two additional insights showing how well your current eating habits align with your genetic profile:
1. A DNA-Based Dietary Recommendations Summary Table within your report, comparing your current daily caloric intake to your personalized DNA based recommendations for both weight maintenance and weight loss.
2. A Top Foods report, which highlights which of your current food choices are contributing to nutrients you need to limit or increase.
Please note that nutrient intakes in these reports reflect only food and beverage sources and do not include supplements.
One dietary intake assessment is included with the purchase of a 70 or 77 gene test and must be completed within one week of placing your order.

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