When it comes to wellness, PRO Medical Genetic Specialist & 20/20 LifeStyles Program Lead/Educator Heather Marsh likes using genetics to inform personalized programs that focus on sports/exercise, mental health, skin, nutrition and weight loss for clients. PRO Cub works with Denmark-based dnalife, “a global provider of genetic and test pairing, innovation and education” according to its website. It takes 2-3 weeks to receive the results of a genetic test, which are sent to a provider to interpret the information. For example, a dietician would help decode the results of the nutrition genetic test, and use that information to develop a tailored program that can help a client achieve their goals, while checking in at regular intervals to monitor progress. As Marsh says, “Sustainability is key” in terms of manageable changes that will work with a client’s lifestyle.
If a client is involved in athletics, the “sport report” can help maximize the benefits of a training program and minimize the likelihood of injuries. The 20/20 LifeStyles weight loss program entails three reports: Nutrition, Counseling, and Sports/Exercise, and Marsh mentions that “Nutrition touches on everything.” The age management program is also a comprehensive program, with four included reports. Clients often begin that program in their 40’s as they contemplate healthy aging.
These genetic tests are considered “Lifestyle”, rather than diagnostic testing. The information yielded shows a client’s predisposition toward certain issues, but lifestyle factors play a significant role as well. For example, some people are more susceptible to sun damage and inflammation, as well as advanced glycation, and different products – like lasers and exfoliants – can help reduce or even reverse that damage. The aestheticians at the Medical Spa at PRO Club would help interpret the results of a skin-focused genetic test to give clients guidance. “Genetic information helps guide us to problem-solving faster, rather than a guess and check method,” says Marsh.