Can I Boost My Immune System?

Can I Boost My Immune System?

The immune system is the body’s natural defense against infections, and its function can be influenced by many factors, including diet, genetics, and nutrient levels. While there is no single food or supplement that can provide a "magic boost" to the immune system, optimising nutrient intake is essential for supporting immune health. Nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, folate, iron, and zinc are key to maintaining strong immune responses, and genetic factors can influence how well your body absorbs and utilises these nutrients.

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8 Genetic Variants that can Increase Your Risk of Inflammation

8 Genetic Variants that can Increase Your Risk of Inflammation

Inflammation is the body's natural defence mechanism against injury and infection, a process that typically promotes healing. However, when inflammation persists and becomes chronic, it can trigger a range of serious health issues, including autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular problems, and metabolic disorders. While factors such as diet, stress, and environmental toxins significantly influence inflammation levels, genetics also plays a crucial role in determining your susceptibility to inflammatory conditions. This article delves into twelve specific genetic variants linked to an increased risk of chronic inflammation, offering insights into your genetic predisposition and how to tailor health strategies to mitigate these risks effectively.

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Curcumin and Neurodegeneration:

Curcumin and Neurodegeneration:

Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are marked by progressive cognitive and motor impairment, largely due to cellular damage and the accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain, particularly beta-amyloid (Aβ) plaques. These protein clumps are linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal death. Research has increasingly focused on curcumin, a bioactive compound in turmeric, for its neuroprotective properties and potential to mitigate the progression of these diseases.

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Biohacking Explained

Biohacking Explained

Biohacking is the practice of using science, technology, and lifestyle interventions to optimise health, performance, and well-being. Often viewed as the art and science of "hacking" biology, biohacking combines principles from fields such as nutrition, neuroscience, genetics, and exercise physiology to help people improve their physical and mental health. Biohacking can be as simple as taking supplements to enhance cognitive performance or as complex as implanting devices to monitor physiological responses.

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Methylated vitamins – what are they?

Methylated vitamins – what are they?

The distinction between methylated or active vitamins and their non-active counterparts is crucial for many individuals, especially those with specific genetic variations (SNPs) that impact vitamin metabolism. Here, we’ll explore these differences, highlight key examples, and explain how genetic SNP testing can play a significant role in determining which vitamins are best for you.

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COMT: Warrior vs Worrier gene

COMT: Warrior vs Worrier gene

Genetics play a significant role in shaping how we respond to stress, focus, and handle pressure, with the COMT (Catechol-O-methyltransferase) gene standing out as a key player in these areas. Known colloquially as the “Worrier Warrior” gene, COMT has variations that influence how our bodies process dopamine, a neurotransmitter vital for mood regulation, motivation, and cognitive performance.

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Nature's Ozempic: Are Berberine and Butyrate Alternative Weight Loss Supplements?

Nature's Ozempic: Are Berberine and Butyrate Alternative Weight Loss Supplements?

Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have recently gained attention for their effectiveness in weight loss. All of which are GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) receptor agonists primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for weight management. These medications mimic the action of GLP-1, a hormone that is produced when we eat, helping to regulate blood sugar, promotes the release of insulin, and reduces appetite, however they can lead to a range of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, digestive issues and nutrient deficiencies. Rapid weight loss may also lead to decreased bone density and muscle mass which is a risk factor of osteoporosis.

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MTHFR Guide

MTHFR Guide

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Understanding the MTHFR Gene: Functions, Variants, and Implications

The MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase) gene is a key player in a critical metabolic process known as methylation, which is essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and overall cellular function. The enzyme produced by the MTHFR gene converts 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, the active form of folate. This active folate is crucial for converting homocysteine into methionine, an amino acid necessary for many biological functions, including the synthesis of proteins and neurotransmitters.

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Could It Be MCAS? Understanding Mast Cell Activation and How to Start Untangling “Mystery Symptoms”

Could It Be MCAS? Understanding Mast Cell Activation and How to Start Untangling “Mystery Symptoms”

Have you been living with a cluster of unexplained symptoms such as hives or rashes, anxiety, brain fog, digestive issues or fatigue, but standard medical tests keep coming back “normal”?

You’re not alone. These kinds of unexplained symptoms are more common than you might think, and in some cases, they may point to a condition many people don’t know much about: Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS).

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Neurodiversity: The Role of Genetics

Neurodiversity: The Role of Genetics

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognises and embraces the variety of ways the brain can function and process information. It celebrates neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other cognitive variations, as part of human diversity rather than viewing them as disorders. Genetic factors play a critical role in shaping the brain's development and function, and understanding the genetic basis of neurodiversity can offer valuable insights into individual strengths, challenges and potential interventions. This article explores key genes that influence neurological development and cognitive functions. Understanding these genes can empower individuals and their loved ones to make informed choices about their health, optimise brain function and explore personalised strategies for support in terms of nutrition, lifestyle and supplementation, which can quite literally be life changing for some individuals.

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Who is Gary Brecka and Why Should I do Methylation Testing?

Who is Gary Brecka and Why Should I do Methylation Testing?

Who Is Gary Brecka?

Gary Brecka is an American human biologist, biohacker, and longevity expert known for his cutting-edge work in functional and preventative health. With years of experience in the health and life insurance industry — where he specialised in mortality prediction— Gary Brecka now helps individuals take control of their health and prevent the development of disease.

He is the co-founder of 10X Health System, a wellness company offering blood analysis, genetic and methylation testing, and hormone optimisation. He is also the founder of The Ultimate Human, a platform designed to educate people about personalised health interventions that are rooted in their unique biology.

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The Benefits of Akkermansia for Gut Health

The Benefits of Akkermansia for Gut Health

Akkermansia is a species of bacteria found in the gut, particularly Akkermansia muciniphila, which is the most studied species. It is a gram negative (thin-walled) gut microbe that resides in the mucous layer (mucosa) of the gut lining (muciniphila meaning mucous loving) and directly interacts with intestinal cells which line the gut and form a crucial barrier.

Here are 6 potential benefits associated with Akkermansia:

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Empowering Your Fertility Journey with Functional Medicine and Nutrigenomics

Empowering Your Fertility Journey with Functional Medicine and Nutrigenomics

Embarking on a fertility journey can be both exciting and challenging, but taking control of your health can make a meaningful difference. Nutrition plays a key role—balancing hormones, supporting egg and sperm quality, and managing conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. Simple dietary changes, like increasing vitamin D and omega-3 intake, can positively impact reproductive health.

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