MTHFR/COMT Genetic Methylation Profile Cheek Swab
Both MTHFR and COMT genes affect brain chemistry, immune health, inflammation, energy production, cardiovascular health and more. This cheek swab test can help determine if you have common variants of either gene.
When methylation is working, it helps you feel full of energy, in a good mood, and just generally well! When it is not working, you can feel tired, depressed, irritable, run-down, susceptible to infections, foggy-brained, and just plain "toxic." This genetic methylation profile looks for gene variants (also called SNP's) of the following two enzymes:
- MTHFR - (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase)
- Research has shown that some people may be at risk of methylation insufficiency due to reduced MTHFR enzyme function.1
- Two common variants in the MTHFR gene (C677T and A1298C) may contribute to increased levels of homocysteine, a known risk factor for heart disease, atherosclerosis2 and venous thrombosis.3
- Those with a genetic variant in MTHFR will have varying levels of difficulty creating the active form of folic acid which is the important form the body needs to function properly.
- Maintaining levels of activated folate may also aid in preventing depression.4-6
- Those with a genetic variant in MTHFR should consider taking activated folate vs. regular folic acid.
- The best genotype to have in the C677T position is CC since it contains no variants. The worst genotype to have in this position is TT since it contains two copies of the variant.
- The best genotype to have in the A1298C position is AA since it contains no variants. The worst genotype to have is CC since it contains two copies of the variant.
- COMT - (Catechol-O-methyltransferase)
- A common variant in COMT, the conversion of the amino acid valine to methionine at position 158 causes a dramatic reduction in its ability to break down neurotransmitters.7-9
- Since COMT is central to dopamine metabolism, variants are associated with lowered stress resiliency, increased sensitivity to pain10,11 and the propensity to worry.
- COMT also plays a role in estrogen metabolism and may lower the cancer-causing potential of metabolites.12
- The wildtype genotype is GG (Val/Val) since it contains no variants. The homozygous mutated genotype is AA (Met/Met) since it contains two copies of the variant.
The following documents provide a full set of instructions for completing the test: Instructions
Results take 2-3 weeks from when specimen is received. This test is not available in Pennsylvania. The results for this test can only be received via mail, e-mail, or fax. Since gene variants do not change over time, each person needs to be tested only once in their lifetime.
Although gene variants do not change over time, understanding them allows you to choose diet, supplementation and lifestyle changes to support good health. Genetic testing allows you to see inside your own DNA in order to draw a personalized map regarding imbalances that might impact your health. Genetic variants are simply pieces of a much larger puzzle that allow you to see "potential" risks and take action in a preventative fashion.
Sample reports: MTHFR and COMT
References
†The laboratory services are for informational purposes only. It is not the intention of Heal Yes! and National Diagnostics, Inc., and Life Extension to provide specific medical advice but, rather, to provide users with information to better understand their health. Specific medical advice including diagnosis and treatment will not be provided. Always seek the advice of a trained health professional for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Both the physician and the testing laboratory are independent contractors with whom Heal Yes! outsources with National Diagnostics, Inc., who makes arrangements for your blood tests. Neither Heal Yes! nor National Diagnostics, Inc., nor Life Extension will be liable for any acts or omissions of the physician, the testing laboratory, or their agents or employees. See our disclaimers and terms.
†These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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Leaping Bunny leads the cruelty-free makeup standard and holds certified companies accountable.
PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, has certified Heal Yes! as cruelty-free as part of their commitment to preventing animal cruelty and testing.
NOTE: While cruelty-free products are not tested on animals, they may still contain animal-derived ingredients. It's always important to vet ingredients carefully to ensure they align with your values and quality standards. For instance, while a product might be vegan, this does not inherently guarantee its quality or ethical sourcing, either. Additionally, some brands may use trendy ingredients like tallow or emu oil, which are often associated with unethical obtainment practices. Therefore, it's essential to thoroughly research and consider both the cruelty-free and vegan status of products, as well as the ethical implications of their ingredient sources.
Why Ensure Cruelty-Free
Opting for cruelty-free makeup offers benefits that appeal to consumers who prioritize ethical and sustainable choices. Consider these benefits of choosing cruelty-free makeup:
Animal Welfare Advocacy: Choosing cruelty-free makeup sends a message to the cosmetics industry that there is a demand for products that are not tested on animals. This encourages more brands to adopt cruelty-free practices and promotes a shift toward animal-friendly alternatives.
Personal Values Alignment: For individuals who value animal rights and welfare, using cruelty-free makeup allows them to align their personal values with their purchasing choices. It provides peace of mind that their beauty routine is in line with their ethical beliefs.
Product Safety and Quality: The development of cruelty-free makeup often involves the use of alternative testing methods such as in vitro testing, computer modeling, or relying on existing safety data. These methods can provide accurate assessments of product safety and quality without the need for animal testing. Caveat: while supporting small and often at-home brands can be an amazing choice, do ensure they have rigorous testing methods in place, which can be atypical for super small at-home brands without professional lab and testing experience to implement.
Innovation and Scientific and Societal Advancements: The wonderful shift toward cruelty-free cosmetics encourages the development and adoption of innovative, animal-free testing methods. This stimulates scientific advancements in non-animal testing techniques, benefiting both the cosmetics industry and other areas of scientific research.
Environmental Considerations: Many cruelty-free brands also prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. Not all, but many. They often employ eco-friendly packaging, use sustainable, natural, and, ideally, organic ingredients, and promote environmentally conscious practices, reducing their impact on the planet.
Consumer Awareness and Transparency: The rise of cruelty-free makeup has led to increased awareness among consumers about animal testing and ethical choices. This encourages brands to be more transparent about their practices and ingredients, providing consumers with the information they need to make informed choices.
Overall, the benefits of cruelty-free makeup extend beyond personal use, encompassing animal welfare, ethical values, innovation, and environmental consciousness. By choosing cruelty-free options, consumers contribute to a more compassionate and sustainable beauty industry that we need to continue to challenge and encourage to be at its best.
The use of the terms "comedogenic" and "non-comedogenic" (as well as "natural" and "hypoallergenic") in the beauty industry is primarily based on manufacturers' claims, creating a landscape where different companies employ various approaches to determine the comedogenicity of their products:
Some manufacturers conduct their own assessments, utilizing methodologies that may include ingredient analysis, historical data, expert opinions, or existing research to support their claims.
Smaller boutique and home-made brands might use the terms and have no testing back-up at all.
It's imperative to note that the absence of standardized guidelines means that the terms "comedogenic" and "non-comedogenic" are not regulated by authoritative bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Therefore, the lack of consistent definitions or thresholds for what constitutes comedogenic or non-comedogenic further adds to the uncertainty.
Given the absence of regulatory oversight and standardized criteria, it is wise to approach claims of comedogenicity with some skepticism. What may be comedogenic for one person may not be for another, as individual skin types and responses can vary significantly. . . .
Relying on personal experiences, recommendations from trusted sources, and seeking guidance from dermatologists or skincare experts can help in finding products that suit your specific needs and skin type. It is also essential to evaluate each ingredient as well as the overall formula when assessing potential comedogenic effects.
Sometimes an ingredient that may be personally considered comedogenic can still function well within the synergy of the entire formula. This refers to how the ingredients work together to create a product that may not cause adverse reactions:
For instance, some might regard certain organic oils and waxes as comedogenic. Shea butter, for instance, is a hydrating 'yes' to many but a no-go for some; however, in a gentle formula with proper emulsifying counterpart ingredients and natural solvent-functioning ingredients, shea butter could still bode well and not make the overall formula "comedogenic."
Conversely, a seemingly impressive ingredient panel can still trigger a negative response in some individuals.
We all have unique needs and tolerance levels, so finding the right products may involve some trial and error. Therefore, it is advisable to find formulas backed with friendly return/exchange policies and, whenever possible, consider samples to test on your skin before committing to full sizes.
Taking these precautions can help minimize the risk of reactions and allow you to make more informed decisions when selecting makeup products for your sensitive skin!
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