Our genetic makeup is the very foundation of what we are. From conception to death, our genes play a major role in determining our physical, mental, and even emotional attributes. Genes also determine how strong or susceptible we are to many conditions and diseases. There are also genes that change over time, and one of these genetic variations is called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs.

What are SNPs and how do they affect a person’s health?

Today, we discuss what SNPs are and their importance in genetic health. We describe some of the common SNPs, like MTHFR, and explain how someone with SNPs can compensate for their health with regards to nutrient deficiencies. We discuss how practitioners can narrow down the SNPs that need immediate attention. We also share the reason why we avoid using the word “mutation” when describing SNPs.

 

“If there's a metabolic backup in a pathway, that can affect your biochemistry.” - Michael Chapman

 

This week on The Lab Report Podcast:

• What SNPs are and how important they are in the study of genetics.
• Why we don't refer to SNP changes as mutations.
• Relating epigenetics to SNPs and factors that contribute to genetic alterations.
• How common it is to have an MTHFR SNP.
• Diet and nutrient compensation for those who have SNPs.
• Narrowing the SNPs that need evaluation.
• Different kinds of SNPs we're going to discuss in the future.

 

Question of the Day:

• "What does being heterozygous or homozygous mean for SNPs?"

 

  Subscribe, Rate & Review The Lab Report

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts, Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts to subscribe to the show and give us a rating and review.

Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most pressing questions on functional medicine.

And be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing.

 

Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.

For medical advice, diagnosis, and/or treatment, please consult a medical professional.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.