Better Fitness and Nutrition Results from Your Genes

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By Neal Carl, M.D.

I always wondered why I chose tennis as my sport. Not that I was bad at other more popular sports like baseball, basketball, or football, but I excelled in tennis. After looking at the results from a genetic analysis focused on fitness and nutrition genes, I have a better understanding of why tennis fit me so well. Still, I wish I had known this information earlier. I think I would have done more to optimize my potential by training smarter, eating better, and doing more to prevent injury.

In almost every cell in our bodies, we have 46 chromosomes which contain 3 billion base pairs of DNA and approximately 25,000 genes which code for all living processes. All of us have small differences in the information that our DNA contains, and it is these differences that make each of us unique. In my medical practice, I test for a selection of key genes associated with fitness, nutrition, and health. This information helps us identify how to best progress on our journey towards achieving our own, individual optimal health.

My fitness and genetic panel was telling. Specifically, I had variations in genes that indicated a “medium” post-exercise recovery profile. Recovery is one of the most important aspects of any training routine. Without the proper rest between sessions, we can push our bodies too hard and compromise our future workouts. I now wait 48 hours between higher intensity workouts and am now performing at a higher level with less soreness and inflammation. Also, on the fitness side, my injury risk profile was “medium.” I have an overall higher than average risk of a sports-related soft tissue injury. Therefore, I have incorporated strategies into my training program to protect myself.

Also, I have modified my diet based on my genetics, labs, and waistline. My optimal diet type for weight management and overall health is the Mediterranean Plan (unlike others who would benefit more from a lower carbohydrate or lower saturated fat plan). I need to increase cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, kale, broccoli, etc.) and decrease salt and grilled meats.

We test for specific genetic markers related to carbohydrate and fat sensitivity, detoxification ability, anti-oxidant/omega-3/vitamin B/vitamin D requirements, salt/alcohol/caffeine sensitivity, and genes associated with lactose intolerance and predisposition to celiac disease. Understanding this information gives us insight and knowledge to help each of us make the correct individual nutrition and diet choices.

At WellcomeMD we help patients find a path to better lifelong health. Our advanced training in metabolic and anti-aging medicine can lead to better health for life, not just treat the symptoms of the day. With today’s new precision medicine and our training, we can prevent and often reverse chronic disease. Genetic profiling is just one more way that I can help my patients live a better, more active, and vital life.

If you’d like to learn more about your own personal genetics we’d be happy to arrange a personal tour and discussion. Email info@wellcomeMD.com or call 888.531.3844.