Why look at genes and not just food intake?
Nutrigenomics looks at the relationship between nutrients and gene expression. Your genes are made up of DNA, which provides the instructions to make certain amino acids that go on to make molecules such as proteins or transporters. These control certain functions, which are more efficient in some cases than others. When DNA is being replicated, a change in the instruction can occur, resulting in the production of a different amino acid. This difference can then change the action produced by the instruction. A change like this is called a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP).
All humans have SNPs. They are nothing to worry about, but they could mean you are not transporting a nutrient into cells efficiently or are unable to convert one substance to another optimally.
At Team Gene, we have identified specific gene/nutrient relationships that are important for optimal health. As an athlete, you place an immense demand for fuel on your body at certain times, such as during competitions. Understanding which gene/nutrient interactions are not as efficient allows you to support your body in times of need.
How do I take a test?
Once you have placed your order, you will receive a DNA testing kit through the post. Inside the envelope, you will find:
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An A4 sheet with instructions on how to conduct the cheek swab
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Two copies of the consent form (one for you and one for Team Gene. It is important for you to sign these and return one with your sample)
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A return envelope with postage already applied (unless you are outside of the UK)
Carry out the cheek swab as per the instructions, place the sample with your signed consent in the pre-paid envelope and pop it in the post. You are responsible for covering cost of overseas postage (outside the UK).
When we receive the kit, we take the samples to the lab. They sequence the sample and then give us the results. This takes about 4 weeks.
We then email your personal report to you at the email address provided on the order.
If you have any questions about which test would be best for you, just drop us a line at team@teamgene.co.uk and we can discuss the option that meets your athletic requirements.
Please view this video for comprehensive instructions on how to carry out a test once you have received your test kit.
Will I be able to understand the results?
You will receive a report that has two sections. The first section is the summary of your results. It gives you concise, personalised information. The second section includes a page for each gene and nutrient interaction and provides you with more in-depth information about the association between them. It explains why you need to take your results into consideration.
At Team Gene, we believe this is enough information to allow you to make specific changes to your nutrient intake.
If, however, you wish to speak to a Team Gene consultant about nutrition and your results in more depth, you can book a virtual consultation with a fully qualified nutritionist.
This has an additional cost, but many people find the in-depth focus very useful.
Visit Nutrition Consultation page to book your appointment.
Why use a cheek swab, not blood or saliva?
Using a cheek swab is less invasive, painless and easier to do. A blood test requires the use of a phlebotomy service, which adds cost, and saliva is not always easy for everybody to produce in the quantities needed. Cheek swabs can be done ‘on the go’ if needed. They are very stable, and can easily be transported between you, us and the lab.
Will the report tell me if I have any health issues or diseases?
No, but it will guide you to increase or change certain nutrients that could benefit your performance.
Will this test tell me who I am related to?
No, definitely not. We only test the genes that are in the reports you buy.
How long are samples kept? Who stores them?
All samples are kept by the lab, not Team Gene. They are transferred to the lab by a team member, with barcodes on the tubes. NO details about you are made available to the lab. In fact, the lab will not accept any samples that have any information other than a barcode on them.
The lab sequences your sample, Team Gene receives the results and sends you your report. The lab keeps the samples for 3 months. Unless you indicate on the consent form that you want the sample to be destroyed as soon as it is sequenced. If a sample cannot be sequenced, the lab will re-sequence for any missing information (this is rare).
All samples are destroyed after 3 months. If you order a report and wish to add another report in more than 3 months, you will need to do another cheek swab test.
How do I know the lab is secure and has quality assurance procedures in place?
The lab is compliant with the latest ISO procedures and GMP compliant.
How accurate are the tests?
The genotyping method used by the lab is 99.9% accurate. If, however, your sample is unreadable or damaged in any way, Team Gene will be in touch to request that you re-do your cheek swab.
Can testing be carried out on babies or children under 18?
Yes, but a parent or legal guardian must give consent on the consent form found in each test kit. DNA does not change through life.
Can you send the kit to all countries?
YES, we ship internationally to most countries. Unfortunately, we can’t send kits to Brazil. The cheek swab is considered a medical device in that country, and we do not have a licence to sell medical devices. If you order a test and your address is in Brazil, we will refund your payment and no kit will be sent.
Who owns Team Gene, are you part of a big organisation?
Team Gene is owned and run by Karen Harrison. She has over 10 years experience in nutrition, with more than 6,500hrs of clinic consultations either helping her own clients or supervising nutrition students.
Karen has BSc Nutritional Science (achieved in 2014) and MSc Nutrition and Genetics (achieved in 2019). She is consistently learning and attending continuous personal development courses as part of BANT and AfN membership association rules and regulations.
Team Gene is a family run, independent company.
Can you accommodate bulk orders?
If you are part of a club and wish to order kits in bulk, please email the team at team@teamgene.co.uk for further information.
How has coronavirus (COVID-19) affected Team Gene?
Ordering via the website has not been affected. The team is working as efficiently as ever and measures are in place to ensure Team Gene offices and order processing procedures are COVID-19 compliant.
We do use the Royal Mail as the primary postal service. This could mean your kit might take an extra day to reach you. The Royal Mail has set up an international incident bulletin, which you can view to see if your country has been affected.
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