Can Genetic Testing Help You Lose Weight?

Have you tried several different diets in an effort to lose weight, but can’t seem to find one that works for you?  Were you successful at the low carb diet, but not the low fat diet, or vice-versa?  Have you found that no matter how much exercise you do, you can’t seem to lose weight?  Well, now there may be an answer to these questions!  For those of you who are fans of my Facebook page, you may remember that back in December I posted a question asking people if there was a genetic test available to help them lose weight, would they take it.  Several people did comment that “yes” they would.  I am happy to report that genetic test is now here! 

Ever since the Human Genome project was completed in 2003, scientists around the world have been using that information to develop drugs, tests, etc. for various health conditions.  Interleukin Genetics, Inc. is one such company.  It is a personalized health company that focuses on genetics research and how to utilize knowledge about our genes to improve our health. They have developed 5 different genetic tests for various conditions (including bone health, heart health, dental health, etc.) and in 2009 launched their health and wellness brand “Inherent Health™” to market these tests.    One of these tests is specifically for weight management. 

Starting in 2006, a team of scientists at Interleukin Genetics teamed up with researchers at several universities around the world (including Harvard and Stanford), as well as other industry researchers, specifically to analyze data for all genetic variations associated with body weight, body fat, or body mass index.  After three years of research and testing, they were able to develop the “Weight Management Genetic Test Panel.”  This test is able to determine what percentage of carbohydrate, protein, and fat works best for your genotype.  In general, this means it will tell you whether you should follow a balanced diet, a low fat diet, or a reduced carbohydrate diet.  The other really useful piece of information that this test will tell you is whether you need to work out at a low, moderate, or high intensity to lose weight.  For more information, check out the Inherent Health website.

This is definitely not for everyone.  It is by no means a “magic bullet”, you still have to be willing to continue to work on improving your diet and tweaking your exercise according to your genetic make up to lose weight.  You also still need to work with your dietitian to determine what calorie level to eat for weight loss and for weight maintenance.  The test does not tell you that, it merely tells you what percentages of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats you should be eating. 

I have had the opportunity to listen to 2 dietitians who were part of the research and development team (Ruth DeBusk, PhD, RD; and Colleen Fogarty Draper, MS, RD), the Chief Scientific Officer (Ken Korman, PhD) and CEO of Interleukin Genetics (Lewis H. Bender) and ask them questions about the test, as well as how the dietitians use it with their clients.  I have to say, I do think this test can be very useful for the person who has “tried everything” to lose weight, but has still struggled to lose or keep it off.  For that reason, I have decided to make this kit available in my practice to those of you who would be good candidates for this type of weight management program. 

As with everything “new,” Inherent Health was kind enough to provide several test kits at a reduced cost to me, so that I could pass the savings on to you!  Normally the test costs $149, as you can see on their website.   Right now, I have a limited supply that I was able to purchase for $120.  If you are interested, contact me ASAP.  Once these are gone, they are gone!  I will still have access to the kits and be able to provide them in my office, but not for such a low price.