What about DNA Diets?

May it be science or specifically genetics, there is no rule of “One size fits all”.  Everybody has unique needs and DNA plays a major role in deciding our body structure and its need. DNA is the basis that leads us decides our likes, dislikes, body type, our hormone levels and many more.

DNA test can help you know more about your genetic makeup. Looking at your nutritional needs, metabolic health factors and matching diet, a DNA test can reveal your genetic diet type, which vitamins you need to optimize, how your diet affects your cholesterol, if you’re sensitive to lactose and more.

By understanding your personalized genetic nutrition profile, which also includes knowing the ratio of carbs, proteins and fats for your body, you can make more significant decisions regarding your diet based on your DNA. Let’s explore few of the diets your DNA may suggest based on your genetic nutrition profile.

A keto or Low Carb Diet Plan- A ketogenic diet is a low carbohydrate diet type, which allows a person to keep their carbohydrate levels under 20-30 grams per day, but usually pure vegetarians can’t achieve such low levels of carbohydrates and thus what they follow in the name of “keto” is a low carb diet.

So when it comes to your genetic nutritional profiling, and the results show highly fluctuating levels of insulin or elevated blood sugars, then it is a sign that the person is prone to diabetes. These body types when eat foods with high glycemic index, have more chances to gain weight. That’s why a ketogenic diet can result not only in weight loss but also will lead to a life where the person will have less chances to develop diabetes.

Don’t worry about having a boring or a dull diet, you can still enjoy many delicious low carb food items viz panner tikka, chicken tikka, butter chicken, mushroom delicacies and many others.

A Low Fat Diet Plan- As the name suggests this diet allows maintaining low levels of fat in your body. But what’s the need? If your nutritional profiling shows high cholesterol levels, then low fat diet is advisable for you.

Basically this diet focuses on cutting down the amount of trans-fat and saturated fat intake in your meals. Trans-fat and saturated fat are the unhealthy forms of fat in our body that can increase harmful LDL cholesterol and increase your chances of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. On the contrary, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can do the opposite—decrease harmful cholesterol levels, build cell membranes and the covering of nerves and prevent heart disease.

A Balanced diet- If you’re in good health and free from complications like high cholesterol and high blood pressure, a DNA test may suggest maintaining a balanced diet. A balanced diet means eating a group of food from each major Macro group, from proteins and carbohydrates to fruits and vegetables. Design the most of this diet by focusing on more nutrient-dense foods, such as colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains; high quality lean protein and healthy fats.

Even if you’re healthy, you should still avoid processed, highly refined foods, trans fats and added sugars.

Lactose free and Gluten Free Diet: These diets are for lactose intolerance and gluten sensitive people.

Lactose is the sugar found in milk. Based on your genetic makeup, your body may have problem properly digesting it. As a result, you may experience bloating, cramps, stomach pain and other uncomfortable side effects.

Gluten sensitivity can cause more than an upset stomach. Symptoms can range from nausea and hives to difficulty breathing and malnutrition. Because of a wide range of potential symptoms, gluten sensitivity can be difficult for physicians to diagnose. Gluten rich foods should be avoided in this diet.

These diet regimes should be discussed with registered dietitian or physician before implementation, as these are forms of medical condition.

DNA based diets are more customized and targeted form of diets, which can be followed after thorough study and discussions. You genetic makeup can help in you deciding your meals that can help in achieving best form of your health and fitness. Remember DNAs don’t LIE!