Welcome to the latest edition of The DNA Talks Digest! This quarter, we are putting the spotlight on a chapter of life that is too often whispered about, dismissed, or misunderstood Menopause.
At The DNA Company, we believe that menopause is not an ending it’s a powerful new beginning. With the right knowledge, tools, and support, this transitional time can become a launchpad for vitality, confidence, and vibrant health Our focus is to illuminate the menopause journey with our fellow Women’s Health Key Opinion Leaders’ perspectives Our lens of Functional Genomics/Biohacking and Functional Medicine will help with uncovering how your unique genetic makeup can shape, guide, and optimize your experience during this profound phase of womanhood
One of our deepest hopes with this issue is that you find something here that speaks to you right now something practical, something you can act on, and something that truly benefits your wellbeing. Menopause touches each of us differently. For some, it is a genetically driven journey. For others, it is layered with emotion or shaped by chronic health challenges. Whatever your path, know this: today’s menopause is not what our grandmothers experienced — and it absolutely shouldn’t be.
As women, we are demanding more more knowledge, more personalized care, more truth. And with the power of functional genomics, we are finally equipped to see why we experience what we do, and how we can navigate it with clarity and confidence. Understanding our own biological blueprints allows us to address symptoms at the root cause and design our own health narratives, instead of being handed one-size-fits-all answers.
But we must also be honest: keeping women at the center of healthcare has never been more critical Women’s health services and research are being quietly erased from scientific journals, databases like PubMed, and even national institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) The studies that once gave us insight into our unique biology are disappearing along with them, the potential for breakthroughs in treatment and care We owe it to ourselves, and to the next generation, to not let that erasure continue
Our daughters deserve 10 times better than what we’ve had. And we believe that it starts here with knowledge, with advocacy, and with the unshakeable bond of sisterhood.
Together, let’s continue to be loud, to be seen, and to be supported — not only by each other, but by science that finally puts women first.
In this digest, you will discover:
Personalized strategies to support hormonal balance naturally and sustainably. Cutting-edge insights into how genes like CYP1B1, COMT, and ESR1 play a role in estrogen metabolism, mood regulation, and more Expert commentary from women’s health pioneers who are changing the narrative around menopause from taboo to empowerment
Menopause does not have to feel like a mystery. With functional genomics, we decode the biology behind the symptoms and offer personalized pathways toward relief, resilience, and rejuvenation.
As always, thank you for trusting us to walk alongside you on your health journey. Whether you are approaching menopause, in the midst of it, or navigating post-menopause, know that your body holds incredible wisdom — and we are here to help you unlock it.
Here’s to celebrating this beautiful evolution with science, strength, and sisterhood.
TracyWood, CPC, Eli-MP, HHA, CFGP CEO&Founder
TheDNATalksDigest
“Where Functional Genomics Meets Feminine Power”
THOUGHT LEADERS DRIVING THE CONVERSATION
DR. KRISTA KOSTROMAN, ND, BCS, CFGP
Chief Science Officer The DNA Company
CEO, The DNA Company & Founder of DNA University
DR. LACHLAN CRAWFORD, ND, CFGP
Associate Dean The DNA University
Certified Functional Genomics Practitioner
Certified Functional Genomics Practitioner
DR. TIFFANY SMITH, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, MASTER AROMATHERAPIST
Certified Functional Genomics Practitioner
JUSTIN HARRIS, CFGP
LYNN ANGEL, CFGP
TRACY WOOD, CPC, ELI-MP, HHA, CFGP
DR. LARA VARDEN, PHD, BCHHP, LEHP, CFGP, CFNC
Dean of Students The DNA University
DR. GABRIELLE GUTIERREZ, PHARMD., CFGP
FELICIA BRUNO Program Coordinator The DNA Company Director for Genomic Fitness The DNA Company
Each contributor brings their unique expertise, from cutting-edge research to practical applications in genomics, offering readers valuable insights into the future of healthcare. Together, this diverse roster of experts provides actionable knowledge to help individuals optimize their health.
Certified Functional Genomics Practitioner
Co-Founder and CEO of
Bestselling Author, International Speaker, and Founder of Real Health MD and PerfeQTion Imaging
SUSAN BRATTON CEO and Co-Founder, Better Lover, The20, LLC. and Personal Life Media, Inc
CAROLINE ALAN
DR. LEO GRADY, PHD
JEN SIMMONS
JAMIE KYEI-FRIMPONG, DNP, FNPBC, IFMCP, CFGP
BEAM Minerals Inc.
DR. BIANCA VEGA CEO and Founder of Welli Biohacking and Wellness Clinic
Founder and CEO of JONA
DR. BETTY MURRAY PHD, MS, CN, IFMC Founder & CEO of The Menrva Project
Founder, Medical Director of Monarch Way
DR. TRACEY STEADY HARDCASTLE, DACM, MSTOM, CFGP
A CONVERSATION WITH DR. BETTY MURRAY ON POWER, HORMONES, AND THE RISE OF MENRVA
By Dr. Betty Murray, PhD, MS, IFMCP | Founder & CEO of The Menrva Project
Q: Betty, for those who don’t yet know you—who is Dr. Betty Murray?
Betty: I'm a woman on a mission. At my core, I’m a scientist, a storyteller, and a systems thinker. I’m the founder and CEO of The Menrva Project, Metabolic Blueprint, and Living Well Dallas Functional Medicine Center—the first multidisciplinary functional medicineclinicinNorthTexas.Buttitlesaside,I’mawomanwho got tired of watching other women silently suffer through issues that were never given proper attention—especially around hormones,metabolism,longevity,andmidlifeidentity.
This isn’t just health. It’s power. And for me, that power got personal when I hit my late 30s and 40s and realized my body— despite my being athletic, well-read, and “doing everything right”—was no longer responding the way it used to. I was gaining weight, my mood tanked, my hair fell out, my libido vanished,sleepwaselusive,andtheanswersIgotwere“adrenal fatigue, thyroid dysfunction, insulin resistance, estrogen dominance,” and the list goes on. I had access to some of the best functional medicine minds and I was a practitioner, but yet, Istillstruggled.Thatfrustrationlitafireinme.Whatstartedwith myownhealingturnedintoamovement.Andthat’swhatMenrva isabout.
Q: Let’s talk aboutThe Menrva Project.What is it really?What do you stand for?
Betty: Menrva isn’t a brand—it’s a revolution. Named after the Etruscan goddess of wisdom, medicine, healing, and war. She stands for the strength and power of a woman’s spirit. The Menrva Project is about reclaiming the parts of ourselves that havebeendismissed,ignored,patronized,orpathologized.
We stand for education, empowerment, and biological truth— unfiltered and female-first. Our work is rooted in science—over 20 years of clinic practice supporting and treating women, but not confined by outdated models that were never built for women to begin with. We stand for women of all ages—women in the boardroom, the bedroom, and the doctor’s office—finally beingseen,heard,andhonored.
We’re done whispering about perimenopause, menopause, weight gain, libido, or burnout. We’re done with unequal bodily autonomy and reducing women to “bikini medicine.” We're here to speak it out loud, rewrite the rules, and help women understand that their bodies are not broken—they’re just misunderstood.
Q: What’s your “why”? What drives this work at such a souldeep level?
Betty: Because I was that woman. And I still am, in many ways. I know what it’s like to feel gaslit by medical professionals, to readtheresearchandrealize90%ofitwasdoneonmen,tofeel like your body has betrayed you—and to wake up every day trying to piece it all together while running a life, a family, a business.
I also know what it is like to try and change the establishment andtheroadblocksthatarebuiltintothefabricofourculture.
But more than that, I’ve seen the fire return to women’s eyes when they realize they’re not crazy, they’re not lazy, and they’re notalone.
I've watched women reclaim their bodies, their voices, their relationships,theircareers,andmoreimportantly,
But here's the truth: menopause is not the beginning of the end. It’s the beginning of becoming. It’s when your body stops preparing for others and starts reclaiming itself. If that’s not sacred,Idon’tknowwhatis.
At The Menrva Project, we say: menopause isn’t your enemy. Misunderstandingitis.
and lab work that she can order herself, without a gatekeeper standingintheway.It’sbodyliteracyatscale.
From there, our telemedicine providers—licensed in every state —can prescribe bioidentical hormones that are informed by your DNAandhormonemetabolism.
But here’s where it gets revolutionary: we’re not guessing dosage and assuming symptoms tell the whole story. We’re capturing how you take your hormones, when you take them, and how your body responds, in real time. This is the missing piece in hormone therapy—the nuance of the day-to-day lived experience.
Our ultimate goal? To build the largest repository of women’s health data in the world—completely free from big pharma, big insurance,andinstitutionalbias.Wewanttoidentifythepatterns that have been invisible for decades. Not just in menopause, but in premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), autoimmune conditions, osteoarthritis, depression, anxiety—the full, often dismissed, spectrum of women’s health. We’re raising capital right now to build this platform.
This is why I went back for my PhD. I needed to know how to architect a medical research model that could hold this kind of complexity—andthenhandthatpowerbacktowomen.
Q: That sounds incredibly ambitious. Why start with menopause?
Betty: Because it’s the most underserved and misunderstood stage of a woman’s life—and the consequences are staggering. Eighty-five percent of women going through the menopause transition experience quality-of-life issues that directly affect their work, relationships, and well-being. It’s not just hot flashes —it’s metabolic shifts, mood crashes, sleep disorders, and loss of libido. And most of them are told to “wait it out” or get handedapill.
Wechosemenopausebecauseit'sthecanaryinthecoalmine. If we can solve healthcare here—if we can bring nuance, data, and personalization to this phase—we open the door to transforming care for all reproductive phases: puberty, fertility, postpartum,perimenopause,andbeyond.
Q:The Menrva Project is clearly more than an app.What’s the long-term vision for the platform?
Betty: Menrva is a health intelligence engine. Right now, it supports women with lifestyle plans, symptom tracking, wearable integration, telemedicine, and personalized treatment protocols.Butwherewe’reheadedisevenbigger.
The future is predictive. Imagine getting a ping that says, “Hey, based on your biometrics, you’re two weeks away from a flare in yourautoimmunesymptoms—let’sadjustyournutritionnow.”Or: “Your progesterone dropped below your optimal range, and that’swhyyoursleepisoff—let’stitrateyourprotocol.”
Eventually, Menrva will be the data layer powering clinical trials, product development, and public health policy for women. The dataset we’re building is priceless—because it’s finally centered on women’s biology. We’re not just creating a platform; we’re creatingalegacyofdatasovereigntyforwomen.
Q: You've said healthcare is in crisis. How does Menrva address the deeper systemic problems?
Betty:Atitscore,Menrvaisanactofresistance.Thehealthcare system has pathologized women’s bodies, overlooked our data, and treated our concerns as emotional rather than biological. That’snotjustbias—it’sbakedintotheinfrastructure.
Menrva breaks that cycle. It meets women where they are, uses technology to scale expert-level support, and arms them with data they can trust. But it also creates feedback loops that help doctors become better, researchers study smarter, and companiesinnovatewithactualrelevance.
We’re not trying to fix the old system. We’re building a new one —feminist,tech-forward,data-literate,androotedindeepcare.
Q: If you had one message for investors, healthcare leaders, or policymakers reading this—what would it be?
Betty: Women are not a niche. We are the majority. And we are theeconomicengineofthehealthcaresystem.
Supporting women’s health isn’t charity—it’s strategy. When you support menopause care, you’re impacting the workforce, the family, and the economy. You’re not just helping women sleep better—you’re increasing productivity, preventing chronic disease,andloweringhealthcarecosts.
Q: What’s your message to the woman who feels like she’s lost herself?
Betty: You are not lost—you’re being recalibrated. And this season of life isn’t a crisis; it’s a calling. Yes, your hormones are shifting. Yes, your body feels foreign. But this isn’t about shrinking to fit someone else’s mold. It’s about expanding into yournextera—onyourownterms.
Youarenotbroken.You’rebreakingthrough.
Dr. Betty Murray is on a mission to dismantle the outdated, male-centric model of healthcare and rebuild it around women—starting with menopause. As the founder of The Menrva Project, Living Well Dallas, and the host of the Menopause Mastery Podcast, she’s combiningdata,telemedicine,andunapologetictruthto helpwomenreclaimtheirhealth,hormones,andpower.
With over two decades of clinical expertise and a PhD in functional medicine and systems biology, Dr. Murray’s work is shaking up everything we thought we knewabouthormones,midlife,andwhatitmeanstobe a woman. You can follow Dr. Murray at @drbettymurray onsocialmediaandlearnmoreatbettymurray.com.
MODERN MEN, ANCIENT GENES:
WHY YOUR TESTOSTERONE IS TAPPING OUT TOO SOON
By Justin Harris, CFGP and Primal Health Coach |The DNA Company
Fellas, there’s an elephant in the room regarding men’s health, andit’sabouttimewetalkedaboutit.
Andropause is as much a natural element of a man’s life as menopause is for a woman’s life. This is the stage of life where one’s sex hormone production begins to slow down and there is a corresponding decline of libido, energy levels, muscle mass, motivation,andevencognition[1].
But did you know that this natural process is beginning to happenearlierandearlierinlifeformanymen?
To answer that, it is important to remember what anabolic hormones like testosterone were designed for in the first place! Testosterone is an important motivator and supplies us with sex drive and sperm production for the purpose of passing on our genes in the form of offspring. Therefore, testosterone is one of the vehicles that the body uses to facilitate the process of evolutioninourspecies.
When we consider this, and view it through the lens of postmodern living, it begins to make sense that this process is havingitsgoalpostmovedwitheachnewgeneration.
Sure, living in the new world has its benefits; we all enjoy the conveniences of technology and accessibility that our ancestors never had. However, from an evolutionary perspective, these luxuries have also introduced many mismatches in our biology thatIbelieveareimpactingusonahormonallevel!
Think about it, androgenic hormone-driven libido exists for the purposeofcreatingoffspring,thenextgeneration.Ourhormones alsoreacttoepigeneticsignalingfromourenvironment[2].
With the introduction of industry, the internet, sedentary lifestyles, processed foods, lack of sun exposure, fear and anxiety inducing media, toxic pharmaceuticals, and even an existential lack of purpose that many men experience in our modern day, we have fallen out of alignment with our genetic expectations.
Our bodies need a reason to grant us testosterone and carry on with the species. If we live in a toxic environment, our body responds in a logical and protective manner! It says, “We should not be having children right now in a world where they’re not likely to survive.” The body then obeys its own protective mechanismsbysuppressingsexhormoneproduction.
So,whatdowedoaboutit?
Thegoodnewsisthatepigeneticsignalingissomethingthatcan take control of and begin to provide signals to our bodies that are in alignment with health and vitality. With the right education and toolkit, we can reduce the counterproductive epigenetic inputsthatareinterferingwithourhormonalexpression!
A great place to start this process is by having your genes tested;thiscanprovideinsightsintomanykeyareasofhowyour body functions. Detoxification pathways, steroid hormone pathways, insulin response, executive function, methylation, and more can be uncovered with modern genetic testing. If any relevant areas of your genes are suboptimal, it is critical to reinforce them with targeted lifestyle strategies to help provide resilienceagainstthetoxicelementsofmodernliving.
Thekeyhereistoprovidethebodywithhighqualitysignalsthat encourage the body to have vitality and life force. We tell the body to be happy, strong, and healthy by providing the correct inputandgivingourselvesreasonstopassonourgenes.
Operating in alignment with species appropriate lifestyle behaviors is another great step toward this. As a Primal Health Coach, I teach people the Primal Blueprint, which is in essence 10 lifestyle laws that are derived from analyzing evolutionary biology. Adhering to the Primal Blueprint pulls us into alignment with the expectations of our Sapien genome and can go a long waytowardrestorationofourhighestgeneexpression[3]!
By taking control of the way we eat, the way we move, and the way we interact with the world, we can optimize gene expression; prolong our procreating years; stay lean, fit, and energized; and transition gracefully into old age with a high qualityoflife.
It takes the right toolkit and understanding of your genetic makeup, but when we move toward our ideal selves with purpose and intent, we can reclaim our masculine vitality and begintoreversethistrendofearlyandropauseforourselvesand forfuturegenerations.
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GENES AND MENOPAUSE: HOW YOUR DNA SHAPES THE CHANGE
By Dr. LaraVarden, PhD, BCHHP, LEHP, CFGP, CFNC | The DNA Company
Menopause is a natural stage in every woman’s life, marking the end of menstrual cycles and fertility. While it’s a universal experience, the age at which menopause begins and the symptoms women feel can vary greatly. Why do some women breeze through menopause while others struggle with hot flashes, mood swings, or memory lapses? The answer, in part, liesinourgenes.
We are going to explore how specific genes influence menopause—its timing, symptoms, and the transition from perimenopause to postmenopause—using the latest scientific research.
What Is Menopause andWhy Does It Happen?
Menopause usually happens between ages 45 and 55. It’s defined as the point when a woman hasn’t had a period for 12 months. The years leading up to this, called perimenopause, can bring hormonal ups and downs, causing symptoms like irregular periods,sleepproblems,andmoodchanges.
The main driver of menopause is the gradual decline in ovarian function,leadingtolowerlevelsofestrogenandotherhormones. But not all women experience menopause the same way. Genetics play an impactful role in determining when menopause startsandhowwomenfeelduringthistransition[1].
GenesThat Influence theTiming of Menopause
Studies have found genes influencing the onset of menopause. SomeofthemostinfluentialareinvolvedinDNArepair,hormone regulation,andtheimmunesystem[1,2].
Early menopause can affect fertility and increase the risk of health problems like cognitive decline [3], osteoporosis, and heartdisease[4].
Genes and Menopausal Symptoms
While timing is important, genes also influence how women experience menopause. Here are some key genes and how they affectthetransition:
1.COMT (Catechol-O-Methyltransferase)
COMT helps break down estrogen and dopamine. Some women have a version of the COMT gene (AA) that slows this process. This can lead to higher levels of estrogen and dopamine in the brain.
Impact: Women with the AA COMT type may have more intense symptoms during menopause, like anxiety, mood swings,ortroublesleeping.Theirbodiesmayalsostruggleto clearestrogen,whichcanaffecthormonebalance[5].
2.MAO-A (Monoamine Oxidase A)
MAO-A is an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Research shows that women in perimenopause have higher levels of MAO-A, which canleadtolowerlevelsofthese“feel-good”chemicals.
Impact: This may explain why depression is more common during perimenopause. In one study, perimenopausal women had 34% higher MAO-A levels than younger women, making themmorevulnerabletomooddisorders[6].
3.DRD2 (Dopamine Receptor D2)
The DRD2 gene affects how the brain responds to dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to motivation and pleasure. Estrogen boosts DRD2 activity, so as estrogen drops during menopause, dopaminefunctioncandecline.
Impact: This may contribute to changes in mood, motivation, and even the risk of depression as women transition into menopause[7].
4.5HTTLPR (Serotonin Transporter)
This gene controls how serotonin is recycled in the brain. The short version of 5HTTLPR is linked to a poorer response to antidepressants in menopausal women, possibly because estrogenandserotoninarecloselyconnected.
Impact: Menopausal women with the short version of this gene may find it harder to treat depression with medication,
5.BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)
BDNF supports brain health and memory. After menopause, women with lower BDNF levels tend to have worse memory and changesinbrainfunction. especiallyinwomenwithcertainBDNFgenetypes[9].
Genes and Hormone Metabolism
Other genes, like CYP19A1, are involved in making estrogen from other hormones. Changes in these genes can affect how much estrogen a woman has as she approaches menopause, influencing symptoms like hot flashes, bone loss, and heart health[10].
Genes involved in detoxification, such as GSTT1, GSTM1, and SOD2, help clear harmful byproducts from the body. If these genes aren’t working well, oxidative stress can increase, raising theriskofchronicdiseasesaftermenopause[11,12].
What DoesThis Mean forYou?
Understanding your genetic makeup can help predict when menopausemightstartandwhatsymptomsyoumightface.This knowledgecanguidepersonalizedtreatments—likechoosingthe right type of hormone therapy, supporting mental health, or targetingspecificsymptoms.
For Practitioners: Genetic testing may help tailor menopause management, from hormone therapy to mental health support.
For Women: Knowing your genetic risks can empower you to make lifestyle changes—like regular exercise, healthy eating, andstressmanagement—toeasethetransition.
The Future: Personalized Menopause Care
Asscienceuncoversmoreaboutthegeneticsideofmenopause, the future of care will become more personalized. By understanding your DNA, you and your healthcare provider can work together to create a menopause plan that’s just right for you.
BENEFITS OF WORKING OUT FOR MENOPAUSE AND MANOPAUSE
by Felicia Bruno, CFGP | The DNA Company
Asweagehormoneswreakhavoconbothmenandwomen.Asa woman dealing with this, I am constantly aware of the changes. I’ve always said my baby factory is dying and my body doesn’t like it. Haha. As women, we are frustrated, self-conscious, and havefeelingsofunattractivenessanddespair.Themuffintophas come…and let’s face it [UGH] sex can be horrible and dry as the desert, not to mention we are just HOT all the time and not the waywewanttobe.
I think men are also in denial and for good reason. You have always been a strong man. Solving problems, being the leader for your family and most of all helping reproduction at its finest I might say. So, when manopause comes with brain fog and loss of sleep, muscle strength seems to be gone. And if (or when) erectile dysfunction (ED) happens, you feel less of a man. Most menwillnottalkoutloudaboutit.Iamheretosayitisfixable!
Have no fear, the later years of life can be dealt with IF we take charge and do something. As frustrating as it is, we can still be incontrol.Itwilltakesomework,butyourbody,mind,andheart willthrive.
Benefits for Menopause
1.Hormonal Balance
Regular physical activity can help stabilize fluctuating estrogenandprogesteronelevels. Exercise boosts endorphins and serotonin, which helps improvemoodandreduceanxietyanddepression.
2.Bone Health
Weight-bearing and resistance exercises (like walking, lifting weights) help maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
3.Weight Management
Metabolism tends to slow during menopause. Exercise helps preventweightgainandtheaccumulationofabdominalfat.
4.Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
While results vary, some women report fewer or less intense hotflasheswithregularaerobicexercise.
5.Improved Sleep
Exercise can help regulate sleep patterns and reduce insomniaoftenexperiencedduringmenopause.
6.Heart Health
Estrogen helps protect the heart, so as levels drop, cardiovascularriskincreases.Exercisesupportshearthealth.
Cardio (aerobic): 3-5x/week to improve heart health and reducefat.
Flexibility & Balance: Yoga, tai chi, or stretching to maintain mobilityandpreventfalls.
High-IntensityIntervalTraining(HIIT):Boosts
Life can still be just as wonderful when we realize we are in control.Withjustalittletimeandeffort,yousoonwillbebackon track feeling strong and healthy again. Give yourself grace, this is a journey not a sprint, but we do have to keep moving all the time. You were built to move, lift, be active, and live a healthy, long, and fruitful life. Never believe it’s too late. You can make changes at any age, weight, or condition. Believe in yourself becauseIbelieveinyou.Ifyouneedanyadvice,I’malwayshere andreadytotrain.
UNDERSTANDING BONE HEALTH: SIMPLE STEPS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR BONES
by Jamie Kyei-Frimpong, DNP-FNP-BC, IFMCP, CFGP | Founder & Medical Director MonarchWay
Bone Density:WhatYou Need to Know
Bone health is important as you get older. Bone mineral density (BMD) is the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones. Higher bone density means stronger bones. Lower bone densitymeansyourbonesareweakerandmorelikelytobreak.A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is a simple test that checks your bone density and shows your risk for osteoporosisandfractures.
Osteoporosis:The SilentThreat
Osteoporosis is a condition that makes your bones weak and brittle. You may not know you have it until you break a bone. That’s why it’s called the “silent disease.” Common fractures happeninthehip,spine,andwrist.Thesecanhurtyourabilityto moveandaffectyourqualityoflife.
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis:
Gettingolder
Beingfemale,especiallyaftermenopause
Havingafamilyhistoryofosteoporosisorfractures
Havingalowbodyweight
Goingthroughmenopauseearly(beforeage45)
Smokingordrinkingtoomuchalcohol
NotgettingenoughcalciumorvitaminD
Notbeingactiveenough
Osteopeniameans your bone density is lower than normal but not yet osteoporosis. If you are at risk, it’s important to watch yourbonehealth.
Physical Strength:Your Best Defense
Building muscle strength is important for bone health. Weightbearing and resistance exercises help your muscles pull on your bones, which makes them stronger. This helps keep bones healthyasyouage.
Exercisehelpsslowbonelossthathappenswithaging.
Strength training and weight-bearing exercises can increase bonedensity.
Physical activity builds muscle and improves balance, lowering the risk of falls, which cause most fractures in peoplewithosteoporosis.
BestTypes of Exercise for Bone Health
Not all exercises are the same for bone strength. These exercisesarebestforbonehealth[1,2]:
Weight-Bearing Aerobic Exercise: Walking, jogging, stair climbing, and dancing help make bones stronger. Walking slows bone loss, but higher-impact activities work even betteriftheyaresafeforyou.
Resistance and Strength Training: Lifting weights, using resistance bands, or doing bodyweight exercises (like squats and push-ups) work muscles and bones, improving bone density,especiallyinhigh-impactareas.
Balance and Flexibility Exercises: Yoga, tai chi, and similar activities improve balance and coordination, which can reducetheriskoffalls.Theseexercisesareespeciallyhelpful forolderadultsorpeoplewithlimitedmobility.
For older adults or people with mobility issues,multicomponent exercise programsthat mix aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises can be customized to your needs, giving a fullapproachtobonehealth.
Nutrition for Strong Bones
A healthy diet is key to keeping bones strong. Focus on these nutrients[3,4]:
Calcium: The main mineral in bones. Adults usually need 1,000-1,200mg per day. Good sources are dairy products, leafygreens,andfortifiedfoods.
Vitamin D: Helps your body absorb calcium. Sunlight is a natural source, but you may need supplements, especially if you’reolderordon’tgetenoughsun.
Protein: Helps both muscle and bone health. Eating enough protein with calcium can improve bone density and lower the riskoffracturesinolderadults.
By getting the right nutrients and exercising regularly, you can helppreventosteoporosisandkeepyourbonesstrong.
The Role of Genetics in Bone Health
Your genes can also affect your bone density and risk for osteoporosis. Some genes related to vitamin D, like the vitamin D Receptor (VDR) gene, affect how your body uses vitamin D, which is essential for bone health [5]. Other genes to look at are CYP2R1 and vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) [6]. While your genes can affect your risk, diet, physical activity, and lifestyle choiceshaveabiggereffectonbonehealth.
Screening and Monitoring
Routine bone density testing (DEXA scan) is recommended for women over 65, men over 70, and younger adults who have risk factors, such as early menopause or a history of fractures. Your doctor can help decide when you should start screening and howoftenyoushouldbetested.
KeyTakeaways
Osteoporosis is common, but lifestyle changes can help preventandmanageit.
Regular weight-bearing and strength exercises are the best waytokeepboneshealthy.
Good nutrition, including enough calcium and vitamin D, supportshealthybones.
Balance and flexibility exercises can reduce fall risk and help preventfractures.
Early screening and regular check-ups help keep your bones strongandhealthy.
by Lynn Angel, CFGP and Specialized Kinesiologist | The DNA Company
expect hot flashes, mood changes, and stubborn weight gain, few are told how their genes—especially those involved in hormone metabolism and detoxification—might be influencing howbadthesesymptomsare.
The good news is that certain foods can help support these genesandreducemenopausalsymptoms.
Modern science like functional genomics combined with ancient food wisdom shows how specific foods can support the genes responsible for estrogen, androgen, and catecholamine metabolism.
Grab your DNA 360 hormone report, find the Hormones and Body section, and pay attention to the versions you have of the followinggenes.
Genes Involved in Menopause Symptoms
CYP17A1: Involved in steroid hormone production (precursor to estrogen and androgens). Variants can affect hormone levelsandhotflashrisk.
CYP19A1 (Aromatase): Converts androgens to estrogens. Overactivity may lead to estrogen dominance, especially in post-menopausalwomen.
AR (Androgen Receptor): Affects sensitivity to testosterone anddihydrotestosterone(DHT).Lowactivitycancontributeto moodissuesandbodycompositionchanges.
CYP1B1 & CYP3A4: Phase I detox genes that help break down estrogens. Some variants create more reactive or inflammatoryestrogenmetabolites.
SRD5A2: Converts testosterone to DHT. Overactivity can exacerbateandrogenicsymptomslikehairthinningoracne.
UGT2B17: A Phase II gene that helps clear estrogens and androgens. Increased enzyme activity increases the risk for osteoporosis.
These genes work like traffic lights controlling the flow of hormones and chemicals in the body. Certain variants slow them down—or speed them up—and menopausal symptoms can become more intense. Certain foods can help nudge these pathwaysintherightdirectionandreducesymptoms.
Let’s look at quick recipes using four foods that both cool the bodyandsupportkeyhormone-regulatinggenes.
Why it helps: Cucumber is high in water and potassium, which support lymphatic drainage and reduce fluid retention (common when estrogen fluctuates). Its lignans can mildly modulate estrogen metabolism, helping to buffer the activity of CYP19A1 andsupportCOMTfunctionindirectly.
Recipes
Cooling Cucumber Soup: Blend cucumber, coconut yogurt, fresh mint, and lime. Chill before serving. Add parsley (a COMTco-factorduetoapigenin)forextragenesupport.
Detox Infused Water: Add cucumber, mint, and lemon to water to hydrate and gently support UGT2B17 clearance pathways.
2.Mint: Nervous System Calmer + MildAromatase Modulator
Why it helps: Mintcontainsrosmarinicacidandmenthol,which activate cool-sensing receptors and reduce cortisol-induced thermogenesis. Mint may also inhibit CYP19A1 (aromatase) slightly, helping to balance estrogen in women with high aromatase activity or CYP1B1-driven reactive estrogen metabolites.
Recipes
Mint Hibiscus Infused Iced Tea: Steep 1 teaspoon dried hibiscus petals and fresh mint in hot water, cool, and serve overice.AddasliceoforangeforCOMT-friendlyflavonoids.
Fresh Mint Chutney: Blend a handful each of fresh mint, coriander, 3-4 slices fresh ginger, and some freshly squeezed lemon juice. Use as a topper on grilled tofu or lentils to aid digestion, support bone health, and calm the nervous system.
3.Hibiscus: Estrogen Modulation + Liver Phase I Support
Why it helps: Hibiscus has phytoestrogenic and antioxidant compounds that gently modulate estrogen activity—helpful for women with sluggish CYP3A4, CYP1B1, or UGT2B17. It also supports healthy blood pressure and vascular function—key in reducinghotflushintensity.
Recipes
Hibiscus Cooler: Steep 1tsp dried hibiscus petals in boiling water for 10 minutes. Add a small amount of raw honey (optional), chill, and serve with ice. Combine with tulsi for addedadrenalsupport.
1 Ceylon cinnamon stick and 2 star-anise. This antioxidantrichdessertsupportsgentledetoxwhilecoolingthebody.
4.Flaxseeds: Lignan-Rich, UGT2B17 and COMTAlly
Why it helps: Flaxseeds are rich in lignans— compounds that weakly bind to estrogen receptors and promote clearance of strongerestrogensviaUGT2B17andCOMT.
Recipes
Flax & Berry Smoothie: Blend 1tbsp ground flaxseed, mixed berries, almond milk, and cinnamon. Add maca powder for adrenalsupport.
Savory Flax Crackers: Mix 1 cup ground flax with water, a pinch of turmeric, garlic powder, and rosemary. Spread thin
While the above-mentioned ingredients are examples of foods that can improve menopausal symptoms, be mindful of those that can worsen gene variant expression leading to unwanted symptomsduringmenopause.
Caffeine & alcohol (slows COMT so it can’t clear stress hormoneswell)
Charred meats or smoked foods (induces CYP1B1 and createsreactiveestrogenmetabolites)
Excess saturated fat (may drive SRD5A2 and increase DHT conversion)
Dairy products (contain hormones that may disrupt the endocrinesystem)
Hot flashes and mood shifts aren’t just "hormones going haywire"—they're the result of individual gene expression interacting with your diet, lifestyle choices, and environmental toxic exposures. By aligning your nutrition with your DNA 360 genetic blueprint, you can cool the fire of menopause from the insideout.
Eatcool.Eatsmart.Eatforyourgenes!
References
1.Pitchford P. Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition. 3rd ed., rev., updated, and expanded. NorthAtlanticBooks;2002.
2 Greef S, Willow N. Ancient Remedies Revived: A Complete Guide to Herbal Medicine and Natural Healing. GreenHaven Press;2024.
3 Dr.MansoorMohammed,FunctionalGenomicscourse.
4.Malekinejad H, Rezabakhsh A. Hormones in Dairy Foods and Their Impact on Public Health - A Narrative Review Article.
DNA4WOMEN
Why is women’s health still an afterthought in modern medicine?
For centuries, women’s unique health needs have been sidelined in a system built around male physiology. The result? Misdiagnoses, untreated conditions, and a reactive approach that leaves millions of women without the care they need
It’s time to demand better By combining advanced tools like the DUTCH Test Plus, DNA GUT 360 Premium microbiome analysis, and full metabolic panels, this program doesn’t just identify symptoms it uncovers and addresses their root causes.
Why DNA4Women is the program you’ve been waiting for:
Comprehensive, Personalized Insights: Uncover the root causes of health issues with advanced testing tools like the DUTCH Test Plus and DNA GUT 360 Premium tests, providing actionable insights into hormonal, metabolic, and gut health
Tailored Care and Expert Support: Receive personalized hormone treatments and actionable strategies with ongoing guidance through four clinical visits and three coaching calls.
Proactive Wellness for Lasting Results: Optimize hormonal balance, improve gut health, and reduce risks for chronic diseases with a precision approach designed to support your unique biology and long-term wellbeing
Inclusion: DUTCH Test Plus or MIRA Hormone Monitor Max 10 Kit, DNA GUT360 Premium microbiome analysis, full metabolic panels, a DNA Co personal journal, unlimited 24/7 nurse hotline support, and a pair of blue light blocking glasses
This is more than just a healthcare plan it’s a wake-up call. Women deserve precision care that acknowledges their unique biology and empowers them to thrive. DNA4Women is the solution to a system that’s failed women for too long. Are you ready to be part of the revolution?
FLUSHED IN YOUR 30S: THE CHANGING FACE OF PERIMENOPAUSE
by Dr. Krista Kostroman, ND, CSO, BCS, CFGP | The DNA Company
Historically, the average age for menopause in the United States
For many years, perimenopause—the phase before menopause when hormones begin to shift—was thought to be something that happened to women in their late 40s or early 50s. New research is changing that idea. More and more women in their early 30s are reporting signs of perimenopause—and many don’t even know it. This shift in timing is confusing, frustrating, and, for some, even frightening. So why is it happening—and what canbedone?
What Is Perimenopause, Really?
Perimenopause is the time when your body starts preparing for menopause. During this period, hormone levels—especially estrogen and progesterone—start to rise and fall unevenly. This causes irregular periods, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and other symptoms like fatigue and brain fog. Eventually, perimenopause leads to menopause, which officially begins whenyouhaven’thadaperiodfor12months.
Starting perimenopause earlier means being exposed to lower estrogen for a longer period. Estrogen does more than affect your period—it also protects your bones, heart, and brain. That meansearlyperimenopausemayincreaseyourriskfor:
Heartdisease
Osteoporosis(weakbones)
Cognitivedecline(likememoryproblems)
For women still trying to conceive, the hormonal shifts of perimenopause can also make it harder to get pregnant, leading totoughchoicesaboutfertilitypreservation.
What CanWomen Do?
If you think you might be going through perimenopause—even in your30s—it’simportanttotakeaction:
1.TrackYourSymptoms
2.Use a notebook or app to record changes in your mood, periods, sleep, or energy. This helps you and your doctor spot patterns and better understand what’s happening in yourbody.
3 TalktoYourDoctor—andAdvocateforYourself
4.Don’t let anyone tell you you’re “too young.” Ask for a thorough check-up and discuss your full health history. If your doctor dismisses your concerns or seems unwilling to investigate, find another provider who will listen and take yoursymptomsseriously.
5 MakeLifestyleTweaks—GuidedbyYourGenes
Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, leanprotein,andhealthyfats.
Exercise regularly, including weight-bearing movements tosupportbonehealth.
Manage stress with yoga, meditation, or breathing techniques.
Prioritize sleep with a consistent routine and calming nighttimehabits.
Keep in mind: everyone’s body is different. Your genetics can play a big role in how your body processes hormones, reacts to stress, or handles different types of food. Understanding your unique genetic profile can help you make smarter, more effective choicestailoredtoyourbody’sneeds.
1.ExploreTreatmentOptions
2.If symptoms are intense or affecting your daily life, medical treatments like hormone therapy, antidepressants, or other medications may offer relief. Some women also benefit from naturalapproacheslikeacupunctureorherbalsupplements— but always consult a healthcare provider before trying
Midlife isn’t just about wrinkles and reading glasses—it’s also about navigating an invisible tide of emotional changes that can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. For both men and women, this chapter may bring mood swings, anxiety, irritability, low motivation, and even depression. The most frustrating part? Many are told it's “just aging” or handed a prescription without deeperexploration.
But the truth is, these emotional shifts aren’t random—they’re biologicallyrootedand,inmanycases,reversible.
Why Emotions Change in Midlife
Hormones are the body’s communication system, influencing everything from how you sleep to how you think and feel. Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and cortisol all fluctuate significantly during midlife, and eachoneimpactsthebraininuniqueways.
Forexample:
Estrogen enhances serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that regulate mood and motivation. When estrogen declines, it can feel like you’ve emotionally flatlined orridingarollercoasterwithnoseatbelt[1].
Testosteroneaffectsconfidence,drive,andmentalsharpness in both men and women. When levels drop, fatigue and low moodoftenfollow[2].
Cortisol, the stress hormone, can spike in response to chronic overwhelm or poor sleep, making you more reactive, anxious,oreasilytriggered[3].
It’s no surprise that midlife often feels like “emotional whiplash”—especially when mental health symptoms are treated inisolationfromwhat’sgoingonhormonallyorsystemically.
Could It BeYour Hormones?
Ifyou’reinyour40s,50s,orbeyondandexperiencinganyofthe following, your hormones may be playing a bigger role than you think:
If you nodded at more than one, it’s worth exploring what’s happeningbeneaththesurface.
Midlife Isn’t Just aWomen’s Issue:What Men GoThroughToo
While women’s midlife transitions like perimenopause and menopause are widely discussed, many men silently struggle with their own version of hormonal decline—often called andropauseormanopause.
But because it happens more gradually, men’s symptoms are oftendismissedormisattributedtostress,burnout,oraging.
In men, declining levels of testosterone, DHEA, and growth hormonecanleadto:
Decreasedmotivationandmentalclarity
Increasedirritabilityoremotionalreactivity
Lossofmusclemass,strength,andlibido
Poorsleepqualityandenergycrashes
Feelings of disconnection or “not feeling like myself anymore”
Like women, men may also experience shifts in dopamine and serotonin regulation, especially when testosterone levels drop. These changes can mimic depression or anxiety, yet they often gountreatedormisunderstood.
The stigma around male emotional health means many suffer in silence. But men benefit just as much from a functional psychiatric approach that explores hormone levels, gut health, nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, and stress patterns—all of whichcontributetomidlifemoodchanges.
A Functional Psychiatry Lens: Looking Beneath the Surface
Intraditionalpsychiatry,symptomslikeanxietyordepressionare oftentreatedwithmedicationalone.Whilethatcanbelifesaving, it doesn’t always address why the symptoms are happening in thefirstplace.
Functionalpsychiatryasks:
“What systems are out of sync that might be driving this emotionalstate?”
Thatmeanslookingat:
Hormone panels to assess imbalances in estrogen, testosterone,DHEA,thyroid,andcortisol
Nutrient status, like B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, which affectneurotransmitterfunction[5]
Sleep quality, blood sugar regulation, and even genetic factorsthatinfluencemoodandresilience[6]
By connecting the dots between the body and the brain, we begin to see that emotional distress isn’t a character flaw or a permanentcondition—it’sasignal.
Midlife doesn’t have to be an emotional crisis—it can be a turning point. Here are a few evidence-informed strategies I recommendinmypractice:
1 Test, Don’t Guess: Get a full hormone panel and functional labs to understand what’s really going on beneath the symptoms.
2 Balance Blood Sugar: Mood instability is often tied to glucose spikes and crashes. Prioritize protein, fiber, and healthyfats.
3 Support Stress Resilience: Try tools like castor oil packs, magnesium, deep breathing, or adaptogenic herbs to calm thenervoussystem.
4.Move With Intention: Strength training and moderate cardio helpregulatehormonesandimprovemood[7].
5.Nourish Neurotransmitters: Targeted supplementation (with professional guidance) can improve brain chemistry without pharmaceuticals.
This isn’t about perfection—it’s about tuning into your body and givingitwhatitneedstothrive,notjustsurvive.
Next Steps:WhatYou Can Do Right Now
✔ Start tracking your symptoms – Note changes in mood, energy,focus,andsleep.Patternsmatter.
✔ Prioritize nourishment – Eat protein with every meal, hydrate, andsupportguthealth.
✔ Don’t ignore your emotional signals – Irritability, sadness, or anxietymaybehormonal,notjustpsychological.
✔ Explore functional psychiatry – Work with someone who sees thefullpictureandconnectsyourmentalandphysicalhealth.
FinalThoughts
Midlife can feel like everything is unraveling—for both men and women—but it can also be a time of rebirth, wisdom, and emotional renewal. When we listen with curiosity instead of fear, we can respond with solutions instead of suffering. You deserve clarity, calm, and vitality—and it’s absolutely possible to feel like yourselfagain.
About the Author
Dr. Tiffany M. Smith, DNP, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in functional and integrative mental health. As founder of Aroma Functional Nutrition Psychiatry and TheUnlockedLife™,sheempowersindividualstotakecontrolof their emotional well-being using root-cause psychiatry, lifestyle medicine, and genetic insight. Her work helps midlife men and women reconnect with clarity, vitality, and purpose through precision care and personalized wellness strategies. Learn more atwww.wellness.vegas
PROGESTERONE: NOT JUST FOR PREGNANCY, BUT FOR PAIN, BRAIN, HEART, AND BONES
by Dr.Tracey Steady Hardcastle, DACM, MSTOM, CFGP | The DNA Company
When most people think about progesterone (assuming they think about it at all), they think about pregnancy. While it’s true that progesterone is vital for achieving and maintaining a healthy pregnancy, it also has many systemic effects because there are progesterone receptors all over the body [1], including in the brain and spinal cord, digestive tract, lungs, pituitary gland, pancreas, liver, kidneys, bladder, adrenal glands, and skin. Your genetics can affect how quickly you convert progesterone into testosterone (CYP17A1), as well as how quickly and which pathways you favor when you metabolize it (CYP3A4 and SRD5A1 & 2). These factors can affect how progesterone and its metabolitesareusedthroughoutyoursystem.
Progesterone and Pain:
Progesterone increases the release of natural pain relief chemicals [2] in the body by activating the spinal cord opioid system. This is why higher progesterone levels [3], such as in pregnancy, can result in a higher pain threshold. Those who menstruate may also notice a reduction in pain during the second half of their cycle when progesterone is higher, with an increase just before menstruation when progesterone levels drop. There has also been research showing that injections of progesterone alleviated carpal tunnel [4] syndrome pain as well ascorticosteroidsforuptosixmonths.
Progesterone and the Central Nervous System:
Progesterone can act as a neurosteroid [3], can cross the bloodbrain barrier, and can provide protection [5] to the nervous system. It has been shown in studies to reduce symptoms and delay the progression of multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateralsclerosis[3],andtoaidinrecoveryafterspinalcordinjury [6]and stroke [3]. Some progesterone metabolites affect neurotransmitters in the brain, and can reduce anxiety, reduce the severity of seizures, increase levels of serotonin and brainderived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and stimulate dopamine receptors associated with motor control, cognition, and reward [3]. If you know which version of the 5-HTTLPR, BDNF, and DRD2 genes you have, you can reflect on how higher or lower progesterone levels might interact with your genes. This knowledge can help make better sense of your mood and focus throughoutthemonthandoverthecourseofyourlifetime.
Progesterone and the Cardiovascular System:
Progesteronecanreducetheriskforcertaincardiacarrhythmias, protect muscle cells in the heart [7], and increase nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide helps regulate blood pressure and control the dilation and inflammation of blood vessels [8]. Those of you with suboptimal 9P21 and NOS3 genetics may wish to thinkabouthowlowerprogesteronelevelsinperimenopauseand menopausecouldimpactyourcardiovascularhealth.
Progesterone and Bone Health:
Progesterone slowly stimulates bone growth [9], which can be important later in life when the cells (osteoclasts) that break down bone can be more active than the cells (osteoblasts) that build up bone. It also helps increase muscle mass, which is importantforstayingactiveasweage.
Strong muscles aid in balance later in life, which can help prevent broken bones due to falls. Many women notice that it becomes more difficult to build muscle after menopause, and while other hormones such as estrogen and testosterone play a role, we should not overlook the role of progesterone, which is oftenthefirsthormonetodecrease.
Knowledge Is Power:
Understandingyourprogesteronelevelsisimportantfordifferent reasonsdependingonyourgoalsandstageoflife.Knowingyour genetics is an important step in understanding how and why your body responds to things the way it does. We are fortunate to live in a time when, in addition to blood tests, we also have access to convenient, accurate testing right in our homes. The DNACompanynowoffersMiratesting[10],whichofferspatients an easy, affordable way to monitor their hormone levels throughout the month and easily share the data with their practitioners.
OurProviderPartnershipProgramsetspractitionersandcliniciansupwiththeeducation,tools,andVIPlevelsupporttheyneedto successfully integrate functional genomics and our revolutionary suite of testing into their practice. With a patient’s genetic blueprint and access to additional functional testing, you can offer a personalized precision approach to health and longevity for thoseyouserve.
In this program, we start with The DNA University (DNA-U). This fully accredited course, centered around the newly recognized areaoffunctionalgenomics,helpsprovidersuncovertheindividualblueprintofeachtreatedpatient.
Upon successful completion of the course, you are assigned the Certified Functional Genomics Practitioner (CFGP) designation after your name for professional use. CFGP is the new and recognized standard for functional genomics. This sought after designation demonstrates both prestige and expertise in your clinical area of practice. This commitment to your own continuing education proudly displays dedication to your field, and more importantly, to your clientele. This can boost your reputation and exposuretonewclients.
At The DNA University, our founders, CSO, and other industry thought leaders cover the functional interpretation of genetics and genomics.Weknowthatgenomicsanditsstudyisthenewfrontierandlikelyhowallmedicinewillbepracticedoneday.Because of that, and the constant need for science to be up to the moment accurate, we provide a lifetime access to The DNA University, andtoourpublishedpapersandmaterials. Thisgivesyouexclusiveaccesstonewtrainingmodulesastheybecomeavailable.
To help you support your practice, and to assist in the expansion of your revenue, we create, develop, and update the libraries keeping you at the bleeding edge of functional genomics. Achieving certification gives you confidence that your knowledge and abilities meet recognized standards. With The DNA Company as your chosen partner, all DNA-U students have private access to monthlywebinars,hostedbyourfaculty.Adedicatedstudentinboxismonitoredtoensureanyquestionsyouhavethroughoutthe process are answered by qualified medical professionals and scientists. In addition to the phenomenal connective tissue to our community and faculty, we design and provide product brochures and information decks that are available in the student resources area so you can present professional materials for patients visiting your clinic or for use on social media or in email marketing campaigns. Not only does DNA-U set you up for success, but it also provides continued access to grow your business andbuildyourbrand.
Only DNA-U graduates are invited to create a Wholesale Provider Account upon successful course completion. This account is only available for medical and wellness professionals that are accredited through DNA-U or have a recognized designation or medicallicensequalifyingthemtoprovideourtestingandlifestylerecommendationstopatients.
STEP 1: REGISTER FOR YOUR WHOLESALE PROVIDER ACCOUNT HERE
Answer YES or NO to the NPI # and then click "Get Started" at the bottom right and complete all forms. We will send you a confirmationemailofyourregistration.
STEP 2: LOGIN TO MANAGE PATIENTS, ORDER TEST KITS, AND VIEW RESULTS.
Goto:AnswerYESorNOtotheNPI#andthenclick"GetStarted"atthebottomrightandcompleteallforms.Wewillsendyoua confirmation email of your registration (your wholesale portal) and sign in with the username and password you created. If you have set up multiple practitioners on the account, the PRACTICE access will be the primary access and the PHYSICIAN access will be used by each practitioner so that patient records can be separated as needed. Go to "Orders" on the left side menu and “SubmitNewOrder”tofillouttheorderform.
You will receive a New Provider Welcome Email from our clinic support team once your account is approved This email provides additional information about the products and services available through the account along with all pricing sheets. You will have a dedicated support team who are available to answer questions, assist you with navigating your account, processing orders, or accessingtestingresultsinthesystem
Throughyouraccount,youwillordertestingandsupplementsatwholesaleprices Theaccountisintendedtoworkbestwhenyou charge your patient the retail price and take payment directly from them, either through your online store or in person Once you’ve collected payment, you can generate a new order You can have the order shipped to your clinic or directly to your patient You pay The DNA Company the wholesale price, giving you a margin on each product as profit Many providers also choose to stockkitsiftheyarerunningabrick-and-mortarclinicorincludingtestingintheirpackagesandprograms
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE WHOLESALE PROVIDER ACCOUNT: WHOLESALE, SRP & SHIPPING INFORMATION
Wholesale DNA kits are $349 USD, suggested retail is $499 USD, shipping within the United States is $29 USD per kit, which includesareturnpostagepaidenvelopetothelab
For all addresses outside of the United States, you will see the shipping amount when an item is added to the cart For international orders, one-way shipping is charged upfront, your patient is responsible for return postage back to the US-based lab alongwithanyapplicabledutiesandtaxes Wealwaysrecommendusingacarrierthatprovidestrackingonthereturnsothatyour patienthaspeaceofmindknowingitisreceivedbythelab
KIT REGISTRATION PAYMENTS
Each test will include a clear set of instructions so the patient can perform the test at home and register the kit ID to create an account Please tell your patient that they must register their kit barcode and create an account prior to returning their sample to the lab A QR code is located inside the kit box and instruction card; it contains important information on the test ordered If you wouldlikeanelectronicversionofanyofthetestkitinstructionmanuals,wecanprovideittoyou
All orders are paid in full at the time the order is placed and are non-refundable once shipping has taken place You can visit our websiteandreviewallourcompanypolicies
LAB PROCESSING
We have multiple lab partners within the United States, depending on the test ordered, processing times vary Our lab address is printedontheinstructioncardenclosedinthekitandwehaveadedicatedclinicsupportteamifyouhaveanyquestions.Youcan alsomonitorthestatusoftheDNA360resultsfromyourportal
Now that your Provider Application and Training is complete, you are equipped to provide the highest level of patient care, our teamisheretosupportyou,andwewishyouallthebestinyourfuturesuccess!
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Hormonal shifts during menopause also play a role in regulating libido, energy levels, and bone density areas where gut health has emerging relevance Inflammation and changes in gut permeability may influence musculoskeletal health and fatigue, while the microbiome’s impact on neurotransmitter production can shape libido and energy via serotonin and dopamine pathways
Women Left Out of the Research
Despite these clear connections, women, especially those in midlife, are underrepresented in medical and microbiome research Fewer than 15% of microbiome-related clinical studies include menopausal or perimenopausal women [3] Historically, female subjects were excluded from studies due to hormonal fluctuations, deemed too "complex" to control This gender gap has left glaring holes in our understanding of how menopause uniquelyaffectshealth,particularlyinthegutandbrain
Even now, women’s health issues are often siloed into reproductive concerns, overlooking the full-body shifts that accompany menopause As AAMC journalist Bridget Balch notes, “we know shockingly little about women’s health,” and until recently, menopause wasn't considered a critical topic in mostresearchinstitutions[4]
A New Frontier in Menopause Care
Whilewestillhavealongwaytogo,earlystudiesarepointingto the microbiome as a promising target for supporting women through menopause Certain probiotic strains have been shown to reduce inflammation and support mood, while prebiotic fibers may help restore gut barrier integrity More broadly, gut testing and microbiome-based interventions offer a non-hormonal route to addressing issues like sleep disruption, brain fog, metabolic changes,andevenhotflashes.
For some, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an essential tool but it’s not the only one Targeted lifestyle interventions, including diet, sleep, exercise, and microbiome support, may enhance or complement the benefits of HRT The goal is a more personalized approach to care that reflects the full spectrum of women’sneeds
For example, research in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology suggests that vaginal and gut microbiota changes can predict key outcomes in women's reproductive and hormonal health including risks for preterm delivery, autoimmuneshifts,andthyroiddysfunction[5]
Theseinsightsareespeciallyimportantaswomenlivelonger:the average woman spends more than a third of her life postmenopause. Understanding how to support health across those decades — cognitively, metabolically, emotionally — may dependonhowwesupportthegut.
WhatAbout Men?
While menopause is a uniquely female experience, men also undergo midlife hormonal shifts, including gradual declines in testosterone, sometimes referred to as andropause. Emerging evidence shows that these changes can impact the gut microbiome as well, altering microbial diversity and gut-brain signaling in ways that may affect mood, metabolism, and cognition [1]. Though research in men is more established overall, the gut-hormone connection is still an evolving field, one that reinforces how vital the microbiome is to hormonal health in allbodies.
The Path Forward
The gut-brain-microbiome connection is not just an academic interest — it’s a practical, accessible lever for transforming menopause care. By studying how gut microbes interact with estrogen and the brain, we can identify new ways to ease the transition, improve quality of life, and address long-ignored healthdisparities.
by Jenn Simmons, MD | Real Health MD, PerfeQTion Imaging
When your hair is thinning, your joints ache, your skin is dry, your memory is fuzzy, and you can’t remember why you walked into the room When sleep escapes you, sex sounds awful (and feels worse), your weight won’t budge, your confidence has tanked, and you can’t shake the sadness, no matter how much kaleyoueat
Welcome to menopause.
What most women don’t know until they live it is that breast cancer treatment doesn’t just trigger menopause It flings you into it headfirst, often overnight And unlike women in natural menopause, there’s no light at the end of the tunnel There’s no gentletransition There’snosupport And,worstofall,there’sno hormonereplacementtherapy(HRT)offered
For the woman who has survived breast cancer, HRT is almost always taken off the table. She’s told it’s too risky. Too dangerous.Notworththegamble.Andso,shesuffers.
But what if we’ve misunderstood the role of hormones in breast cancer? What if, instead of fueling it, estrogen deficiency is part ofwhatsetthestageinthefirstplace?
Emerging research suggests just that Studies now show that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be safe for women with a history of breast cancer, especially when carefully tailored and monitored [1,2] Estrogen is not the villain we’ve made it out to be In fact, estrogen plays a protective role intheheart,brain,bones,skin,andyes eventhebreast[3]
That’s why I’ve made it my mission to help these forgotten women The ones left in the aftermath of treatment, grateful but depleted Womenwhodeservenotjustsurvival,butvitality
Can BHRT be done safely after breast cancer? Yes But it requires precision
That precision starts with genetic testing. Not all estrogen is created equal. And not all women metabolize estrogen the same way. Genetics helps us understand how each woman detoxifies estrogenanditsmetabolites
ethylate well? Do they clear estrogen through the right Are they at risk for DNA damage or inflammation due toxification?
erethepartnershipbegins.
rt, I promise to use genetics to guide every decision I only bioidentical hormones, monitor labs regularly, and e detox pathways that matter most But I also ask for mentinreturn
woman
s to eat a whole-food, fiber-rich, mostly plant-based moves her body daily, lifts heavy things, minimizes d gives up alcohol (yes, all of it) Because if we’re ring hormones back in, we need the body to be ready mwell
And what does she get in return? She gets to feel like herself again
BHRT has been shown to protect against osteoporosis, preserve cognitive function, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease inpostmenopausalwomen[4,5,6].No,we’renottryingtorestore youth or fertility. The goal is to keep women out of nursing homes,wheelchairs,andadultdiapers.It’saboutgivingherback herenergy,herfocus,herjoy.
It’saboutgivingherbackherlife
She survived breast cancer Now, she deserves to thrive
References
1 FilesJA,GassML,MacLaughlinKL,etal Bioidentical HormoneTherapy:AReview J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2011;20(4):393-404 https://wwwncbinlmnihgov/pmc/articles/PMC3113178/
2 HoltorfK TheBioidenticalHormoneDebate:AreBioidentical Hormones(Estradiol,Estriol,andProgesterone)Saferor MoreEfficaciousthanCommonlyUsedSyntheticVersionsin HormoneReplacementTherapy? Postgrad Med 2009;121(1):73-85. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19179815/
"Women deserve better than fear-based screening and outdated treatment. It’s time to rewrite the story of breast cancer—and it begins with understanding your own body like never before. No one is ever going to know you better than you know yourself."
— Dr. Jenn Simmons
As a former breast cancer surgeon, my own experience as a patient allowed me to see the limits of conventional care. Today, through Real Health MD, PerfeQTion Imaging, my podcast Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn, my book The Smart Woman’s Guide to Breast Cancer, and my program The Breast Health Blueprint, I’m leading a new movement one that empowers women to take control of their breast health.
The DNA Company’s DNA 360 Functional Genomics test helps me personalize each woman’s prevention and recovery plan allowing me to show them how to nurture their nature.
I am here to help women shift from fear to freedom and forever change how we approach breast cancer.
Bestselling Author, International Speaker, and Founder of Real Health MD and PerfeQTion Imaging
DR. JENN SIMMONS
YOUR MUGSHOT IS A MIRROR TO YOUR MORTALITY
by Susan Bratton | CEO Personal Life Media, Inc andThe20, LLC
deepinsideyourbody
ThinkofyourfacelesslikeacanvasforthelatestInsta-filterand more like a dynamic, living, breathing report card on your inner well-being If you’re starting to resemble a sun-dried tomato, it’s a fair bet your internal systems might be feeling a bit parched too
Now, you know I’ve been singing the praises of how a fulfilling SexSpan boosts your HealthSpan for a good while now And honestly, when I look at the vibrant lives of older adults who cherish intimacy, it’s crystal clear: the incredible benefits of orgasmic connection don’t just add years to your life, they add life(andawholelotofjoy)toyouryears
I stumbled upon this mind-blowing new tech from Harvard Medical School called FaceAge. Get this: it looks at your face, compares it to others your age, and helps doctors figure out what kind of care your body can truly handle – based on how youngyouappear,notjustthenumberonyourbirthcertificate
Couple that with the groundbreaking DNAging Testing derived from the DunedinPACE study and another one of those “aha!” momentshitmelikealovinglightningbolt
It’sbeautifullysimple:Lookingyoungerontheoutsideisastrong sign you are younger on the inside And nurturing lifelong intimacy? That’s one of the best-kept secrets to staying vibrant, insideandout
sharp minds, healthy brains) also visibly looked younger than their actual age And those aging faster? Well, their faces told thatstorytoo Thisisn’tjustahunch;it’ssolid,compellingdata
Thatyouthfulsparkle?It’snotjustgoodluck;it’sgoodbiologyat work
2 The “Sex in Long Life” Scoop (HatsofftoDr Weeks&Dr Roizen) Remember my little nudge about sex? It wasn’t just to makeyousmile(thoughthat’sabonus)
Dr. David Weeks, after studying thousands, found that “staying active... and maintaining a good sex life” were essential ingredients for looking younger [2]. And Dr. Michael Roizen famously shared that regular intimacy (think twice a week) can actuallymakeyour“RealAge”about1.6yearsyounger.
Sex isn't just fun and games; it’s a potent youth-boosting cocktailforyourbody
We’re talking a surge in beneficial hormones like testosterone anddehydroepiandrosterone(DHEA),improvedcirculation,anda flood of feel-good oxytocin and endorphins, plus growth hormone and melatonin It’s like having your own personal antiagingspa,poweredbyyourpassion!
3.FaceAge Technology (the geniuses at Harvard Medical School & Mass General Brigham). This is where artificial intelligence(AI)getsseriouslycoolandpersonal.
Researchers cooked up this incredible deep-learning tool, FaceAge, that can look at a photo of your face and predict not only your biological age but even give insights into things like cancer survival time [3]. Forget the old doc “eyeball test” (which, let’s be honest, can be a bit hit-or-miss). FaceAge learned from over 58,000 photos of healthy people and 6,000 photos of cancer patients [4]. The stunning insight? Cancer patients, on average, had a FaceAge five years older than their chronological age [5]. And consistently, looking older was linked totougheroutcomes.
ThisAIwhiz-kidhelpsdoctorstailortreatments.Why?Knowinga patient’s true biological age (not just their birthday) tells them whatthebodycanrealisticallyhandle[6].
An 86-year-old lung cancer patient who looked much younger (and FaceAge confirmed it!) got more assertive treatment and is nowthrivingat90!
Conversely, someone frailer might need a gentler path. FaceAge is like a high-tech compass, using your visible vitality to unlock deeptruthsaboutyourhealthandresilience[7].
The BeautifulTruth: ItAll Points to the SameThing
So, let us tie these sparkling threads together. DNAging tells us loud and clear: if you look younger, chances are, you are biologically younger. The sex research suggests that frequent, joyful intimacy keeps you looking younger through a whole symphony of amazing biological processes. And FaceAge seals the deal with its AI-driven data: your outward appearance is a direct, undeniable window into your internal health and how gracefullyyouarenavigatingtheriveroftime.
Want to Dive Deeper intoYour Own Biology?
If all this has you buzzing with curiosity to understand your own unique aging journey even better, some amazing tools can give you more pieces of your puzzle. Knowledge is power, after all! Youmightwanttocheckout:
The DNA Company. To get a clearer picture of your genetic blueprint, a clear and concise report on your functional genomics will work with your unique biological makeup for optimal health, fitness, mental health, and longevity.
This is not some complicated puzzle. It is an elegant, interconnected cycle. A vibrant, active, intimate life directly fuels that youthful glow. And that glow? It is a real, visible sign that your inner “aging speedometer” is humming along beautifully. It means your body has more oomph, more “physiological reserve”– that amazing ability to bounce back from illness, handle treatments, and generally conquer life’s curveballs with graceandpower.
So, the next time you catch your reflection, do not just scan for new lines. See it as a powerful, daily check-in with your inner health. And maybe, just maybe, let it inspire you to make space forthathealthy,joyfulintimacy.
Because looking fantastic and feeling fantastic are not separate wishes;theyaretwosidesofthesamebrilliantlongevitycoin.
BREAKING THE BIAS: WHY YOUR VOICE IS VITAL IN WOMEN’S HEALTH
b
I yearsofprogressinhealthcare TheNationalInstitutesofHealth (NIH) the world’s largest health research funder has laid off thousands of staff and blocked research proposals that include thewords“women”or“gender”ThismattersnotjustinAmerica butaroundtheworld
A Long History of Underfunding
For decades, medical research has mostly been done on men Women comprise half the world’s population and yet only 5% of global health research funding is focused on women’s health This means that women’s health has often been ignored or misunderstood
Asaresult,manydiseasesthataffectwomengoundiagnosedor misdiagnosed Heart disease, the number one killer of women worldwide, is still often mistaken for anxiety in women patients Thisgapinknowledgecostslives
WhyThis Matters for Everyone
Women’s health isn’t just a “women’s issue” When women are healthy, families and communities are stronger Better research leads to better care for pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, anddiseaseslikeheartattacksandstroke Italsohelpsmen For example, the invention of birth control pills gave couples more control over family planning and improved public health around theworld
gender-based violence, which some experts have called an epidemic. Cutting funding for this research leaves society in the darkabouthowtofixrealproblems.
A Global Ripple Effect
America’s health policy decisions reverberate far beyond its borders As the largest donor to global health programs, the United States plays a pivotal role in advancing medical research worldwide In 2022 alone, the United States contributed 65% of global funding for sexual and reproductive health Much of this support is funneled through the NIH, which partners with scientists across the globe to study diseases, test new treatments,andimprovestandardsofcare
US-funded research has been instrumental in identifying sexbased differences in diseases like lupus and multiple sclerosis autoimmune conditions that disproportionately affect women. These insights are leading to more precise, gender-aware treatments that go beyond the outdated “one-size-fits-all” approachbasedonmale-centricstudies.
Moreover, US funding has propelled long-overdue research into conditionssuchasendometriosisandpolycysticovarysyndrome (PCOS) These common but historically neglected disorders cause chronic pain, infertility, and psychological distress for millions Oncedismissedasroutineaspectsofwomanhood,they are now being recognized as serious medical conditions with lastingeffects
Without continued U.S. investment, progress in these critical areas will stall. Promising studies on maternal health, early detection of ovarian cancer, and the impact of menopause on brain aging may never translate into better care. The loss would be global—not just for American women, but for women everywhere.
Public Outcry Can Make a Difference
Butthereishopeanditissourcedinyou.Whennewsbrokethat the Trump administration was cutting funds to the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI)—a massive study tracking the health of 40,000 women—people pushed back. Doctors, scientists, and the public demanded change. Just one day after media coverage, the decision was reversed, and funding was restored. While the state of such funding not yet secure, it was nonethelessreinstated.
This shows that your voice matters. Protests, emails, and even social media posts can make a difference when science is under threat.
WhatYou Can Do
Speak up: Call or email your elected officials and tell them thatwomen’shealthandhealthresearchmatters.
Donate: Support nonprofits that fund this research or applicationthereof.
Learn: Read about how gender affects health and share what youlearnwithothers.
Vote: Choose leaders who believe in funding science and supportingallgenders.
Conclusion
Women’s health research has never received enough attention. Now, it faces new threats that could undo decades of progress. But history shows that when people speak up, change happens. Women’shealthisn’tjustaboutonegroup—it’saboutallofus.If we care about a better, healthier future, we must fight for fair funding and respect for science. The world is watching. Let’s leadwithcompassionandcourage.
REVOLUTIONIZING HEALTHCARE IN PUERTO RICO THROUGH FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS
with Dr Bianca Vega | Episode 75 of the DNA Talks Podcast
TRACYWOOD:Goodmorning,Dr Vega Howareyou?
DR BIANCA VEGA: Good morning. I’m fine. I feel so blessed to behere
TRACY WOOD: We are excited to have you and we have Dr Krista Kostroman I know this is the first time you’re meeting Dr Kostroman,right?
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yes
TRACY WOOD: She was the focal point through your whole trainingwithus,right?
DR BIANCA VEGA: Yeah, she was She was And I love seeing youhere Ilearnedalot Ilearnedalotfromyou
DR. KRISTA KOSTROMAN: Oh, thank you. That training was such a delight to put together, in particular for practitioners who I know are going to be leveraging it within their practice in such a meaningful way. It’s such an honor. I’m so grateful to meet you aswell.Thankyou.
DR BIANCA VEGA: Yes In the biohacking world summit, I met you there I basically went to search for you folks You know, I wenttoMiamitosearchforyouguysandIdid
TRACY WOOD: That’s so awesome. And your sister, Amanda, she is absolutely lovely I talk to her a lot She’s a great practice manager And I think that people need to understand you are essentially our exclusive DNA company in Puerto Rico You have an exclusive opportunity to not only test using all DNA Co products, but you also have the ability to treat practitioners, teach them, to bring them into your practice to kind of grow that wholeecosystem It’sanexcitingtimeforyou
DR BIANCA VEGA: Yes, it is And I’m just excited about how people learn even more about how DNA can change basically your entire life and how biohacking is the future of science and thefutureofhealthcare
TRACY WOOD: Yeah, absolutely So how did you get started? Whatwasthepartofyourlifewhereyousaid,thisiswhatIwant to do: I want to be a practitioner? At what point did that happen foryou?
DR BIANCA VEGA: Well, for six years I had my private practice and also was doing clinical research in neuropsychology and clinical psychology And I noticed after those many years that 80% of my patients were referred by other healthcare practitioners when they didn't find anything in their biomarkers or any other things for their mental or physical diseases or ailments So, I received a lot of patients having chronic conditions, and I felt I needed to do something more because they were all dependent on medications for symptom management They were dependent on a lot of medications, psychological medications, and a lot of medications for chronic conditions At that time, I knew I needed to do something more Also, I was having some issues in my personal life I knew I had tofindtherootcausesofsomeailment
So at that moment, I began reading every book about biohacking I began reading and studying a lot about functional genomics, biohacking, and how to find the root causes for my patientsandalsoformypersonallifeandmyfamily
I knew about the first biohacking technology, at that time it was BrainTap. I bought it and brought it to my patients. As soon as two weeks, they were having a lot of benefits - positive benefits -andstoppedafteroneortwomonths Theystoppeddepending onmedications Atthattime,Iwentevendeeperintobiohacking, andtherestishistory
TRACY WOOD: Nice You know, one of the things that I hear a lot is, people are looking to remove that pill for every ill Right? AndinAmerica,that’swhatwedo
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yes
TRACY WOOD: Right The average American over the age of 25 ison35medications
DR.BIANCAVEGA:Yes.
TRACYWOOD: Thatnumberusedtobeovertheageof40 And it really has become to where, we would rather just have that quick fix, take that pill, but we don’t think about the other direct effectsofthosedrugs
Essentially biohacking really became very much necessary I don’t like the term biohacking, as I think its core ideology has gottenadulterated,Iprefertheconceptofprecisionandtakinga Master Class in YOU That’s ideology allows for looking at everything from more of an outside and a 360 perspective to get tothatrootcauseofwhateveritisyouneedtomaster Because, when you look at these companies that make these drugs, we are not starting with a root cause We’re getting to here’s the diagnosis - now we’re going to treat it with this drug It’s a sick caremodelanditdoesn’twork
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: Yeah, I was just going to say I commend you for the independent thought and research there. I meet a lot of clinicians, I think, who just accept that people are justgoingtobewellenoughasopposedtotrulywell.
And I really admire that journey of yours that took you quite literally on planes, right, to different parts of the world to understand how do I actually serve the people before me in a waythatgetsthembetterthanjustwellenough
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yes,yes
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: That’s admirable because not all cliniciansgothere
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yeah,agreed
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Ittakesalot
TRACYWOOD:No,she’sabsolutelyright.
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Yeah Yeah
DR.BIANCAVEGA:Thankyouforthat.
DR BIANCA VEGA: It’s okay And it was really amazing how you basically show people that they can have control of their own health, and digging deep into the DNA or their 360 wellness solution or personalized solutions will definitely get them to where they want to be without, without depending on any medications
TRACY WOOD: Well, and that kind of leads into my next question How do you define optimal health for people? How do you define or set that stage for that human potential to really kind of advocate for ourselves, to have agency within our own ideologyasitrelatestomedicationandwellnessandbiohacking Howdoyoudefinethatforyouandforthepeoplethatcomeinto yourpractice?
DR BIANCA VEGA: Well, my definition of optimal health definitely begins with how your body and your mind work together And it definitely includes the combination gut-brain connection
And as soon as you know what your gut is saying to you and what your gut needs, and also what your mind needs and that combination of gut-brain and balancing those, for me, that’s optimalhealth
TRACYWOOD:Yeah,Ithinkthat'strue Dr Kostroman,weseea lot of patients and that's sometimes where we start, right? With seeingthechronicconditionfolks
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: Absolutely I think that definition of wellness within the chronic illness space is very powerful and neededbecauseIthinkthosewhohavenavigatedchronicillness for so long have become very disconnected from their bodies and they no longer trust that gut intuition, right? Because for so longthey'vebeenapproachedandtheysaid,“I’mnotwell.”
And people by and large have said, well, there's no markers that are wrong or I don’t know what to do with you So here’s a pill and just kind of suck it up I love that idea of kind of reintegrating mind and body and allowing that to be one of the firstpointsonthathealingjourney
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: Right? It’s a very beautiful intention forourpractice
DR BIANCA VEGA: Thank you Yes, and we have seen this with changingsmallhabitslikethewayourpatientseat
Way before I bought the first biohacking technology or even madethemthefirstDNAtesting,waybeforethat,Isawhowthey definitely changed their own lives just getting to know their gut more and also getting to know more of what the brain needs or howbothtalktoeachother
TRACYWOOD:Yeah,weactuallyhavealotofpeoplewhoarein Puerto Rico who ow can actually come to your clinic to work with you, not just on their DNA testing, but they can do the gut testing They can do the PGX testing and find out what medicationstheyreallyshouldnevertakeever
TRACY WOOD: Right? So there’s a lot that we’re doing with you but tell me what it’s like for a patient What is a patient’s journey likeinyourclinic?
DR BIANCA VEGA: It’s amazing! First of all, our patients, they feel peaceful, they feel understood, but also they come to Welli (clinic) because they have some mental issues, or maybe they want to optimize their health or prevent illness Basically, our patients come and say, maybe they had fibromyalgia - patients that have fibromyalgia, they have been living with fibromyalgia their entire life, depending on medications with chronic conditions They come to me because they have depression or anxietybecauseofthatchronicillness
When we see the patient, we test the patient first. What we first do, we test them. We interview them and learn what their needs are. And then with the test, we do a narrow check scan, a DNA testing, a microbiome testing, or one or whatever test, a DNA 360 test we need to do them. After that, we discuss with them the results, and then we plan a personalized treatment plan that goeswiththeresults
And then we basically, we go through the entire process about changing their habits, changing their lives, see how they change with us So here we have more than eight biohacking technologiesfromoxygenchambermachinestocryotherapy We help them to not only find the root cause, but to treat the root cause on the whole wellness journey It’s a really, really amazing moment when you see a patient from the moment they were so depressed looking for answers, to the moment you find the root cause And then to the moment they leave here, it’s life changing
TRACY WOOD: That’s exciting I’m actually going to come down andseeyourclinic,soI’mexcitedaboutthat
DR.BIANCAVEGA:We’rewaitingforyouguys.Yes.
DR BIANCAVEGA:Pleasecome
TRACY WOOD: Yes, actually, we are going to come down You mentioned some of the tools that you have in the clinic What’s oneunconventionalideathatyoubelieveinthat’snotnecessarily widelyadaptedyet?
DR BIANCAVEGA:Well,definitelyyourgutisyoursecondbrain That for me, it’s my main unconventional idea You don’t find a lot of clinicians and not more here in Puerto Rico that really believethatyourgutisyoursecondbrain
So definitely finding or fixing your gut can really help cure your anxiety, your depression, your ADD, or even pain, really faster andmoresustainablythanpills.
So that's something that’s one of our core beliefs And, you know, not all people believe in this Not all clinicians believe in this
TRACY WOOD: Right, you get a lot of pushback I mean, I know Dr Kostroman,you’veexperiencedthatforalongtime,right?
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: Yes, yes I’m a witch and enjoyably so. No, but to me, I still find it amusing that things that are very foundedwithinscientificandclinicalliteraturearestillthingsthat arenotnecessarilyconventionallyaccepted.
I think I see within more and more conventional medical practices this idea of, “Oh, yeah, I guess the biome is important,” “Oh, yeah, I guess we should consider this,” “Oh, yes, I guess there's something going on,” where we have all like the most nervous innovation outside of the brain Maybe something’s happening there But then the step toward, okay, well,whatdoweactuallydoaboutit?Andthenactingoutthatis lost Ifinditveryfascinatinghowresearchisadopted
And there’s part of me that’s almost sad that the unconventional thing that you believe in and is, to me at least, well-founded in literature and we have enough evidence to say it is viable, is somethingstilltreatedassomethingthatisnotaccepted,right? Tome,that’shardandtryingtohear,inparticulargivenyourown clinicalpractice IknowinmyclinicalpracticeortheworkofThe DNA Company, how powerful it can be to understand what’s going on within the biome, to make those lifestyle diet adjustments, and how transformative that can be along so many differentmetricsofhealth
DR. BIANCA VEGA: Yeah, and I think it’s a fine line because we receivealotofpatientswithmentalhealthissueswhodependor have a dependency on medications for 15-20 years And it’s so sad that they have been to a lot of practitioners who say like, you need to do more exercise or you need to eat better or you needtochangethisandchangethat
Butassoonasyouleavetheoffice,nooneshowsyouhowtodo it or no one tells you this is your personalized treatment that can help you do it We have a lot of patients who come here who have spent a lot of money on supplements that they don't even need
And they’re just like supplements that are trending and they come with this super ashwagandha and they talk with this super vitamin C and they think the drink that they are drinking with all ofthosesupplementswillhelpthem
But as soon as you see their DNA, you see This is not a onesize-fits-all supplement So you need maybe ashwagandha It’s good for you Maybe this supplement is good for you, but really you don’t need it In that time, it’s amazing how we have helped people even spend less money on their supplements because theyonlyneedmaybeoneortwosupplements
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: And yet you get better impact I experienced the same thing People come in with a very long list and they almost expect that I'm going to add to it because their health comes through these pills This is a byproduct of the Westernmedicalmodel,right?Hereisanill,hereisapill
TRACYWOOD:Right
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: And people have said, okay, well, I don’twantthepharmaceuticalsbecausethosearebad.
Instead, I’m just going to take all these supplements, which I would offer should be treated and prescribed and respected like pharmaceuticals insofar as with someone who’s qualified, with someone who understands what they’re doing And then, there’s veryfewsupplementsthatpeopleshouldbeonforthelonghaul, right?
TRACY WOOD: And I think that there’s a couple of pieces to that Youknow,whenfunctionalmedicinebecameathingherein America,itwasabout25yearsago
And as things like A4M became a thing, we were some of the firstpeopleatA4M,right?
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Yeah
TRACY WOOD: And there was like nobody there And now A4M takesoverhalfoftheVenetian,right?
Back then, people were running two camps: it was allopathic or functional And all the allopathic people did nothing but talk shit on the functional medicine people And then, you know, people would come in, “I'd take 43 of these supplements every morning” Well, no wonder you feel like shit - those 43 supplementsarenotgoingtoworkforanybody
But it is that learning and understanding root cause, understanding that here’s your functional genome, now let’s use the data. Here is how your body is going to adapt to this, and that. Here’s what you don't have naturally. And here’s how we can solve for that. And I think people are learning from people likeyou,Dr Vega,likeDr Kosterman
Dr Kosterman’s on webinars three, four times a week And she’s saying the same thing over and over, “Do your research, make sure it fits you And don’t be wooed into these trends of, you know,theLSDclinicoutinthedesert,”right?
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yes
TRACY WOOD: It is what it is, Dr Kostroman I’m calling it what itis
TRACYWOOD:That’sthegreatpartaboutwhatwedo–options Different viewpoints Finding what fits for you as a precise solution You can think that “this tool or that supplement” is good You can think that that is applicable in some cases It is not going to be in all cases And that’s the part that I think functional medicine has gotten a really bad rap for, right? It’s throwingideasagainstthewall ThatisnodifferentthanWestern medicine
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Correct
TRACY WOOD: I think that the traditional doctors who haven’t stepped foot inside of a school for 35 years and do CEU credits only in their area of competence, are not looking at any new research, in my observation They’re not looking at any new anything unless a drug rep comes in, in many cases, and says, “Herewe'vegotthisandhere'sallthiscoolstuff”Youknow,we had to put laws in place to stop that kind of buying of a practitioner,right?
TRACYWOOD:Right Right
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: We as functional medicine practitioners also need to call them out and be like, we know that’s not true We knowit’sapplicabletothis,butnoteverything,right?
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yeah
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:IthinkMDs,whileeverythingyou’vesaid is absolutely true, there’s a huge segment that just refuse to learn or beopentoother.Ithinkwealsocan’tcontrolthemdirectly,butwecan controlhowwepresentourselvesandwhatwe’redoing.
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yeah Ialwayssaythatwedon'tcompetewithany traditional medicine or we don’t compete with MDs People come to usaftertheyhavetriedthetraditionalwayforyears Sobasically,we don’tlookforpeople Peoplecometousbecausetheyknewthatfor years,traditionalwayshavenotbeentheanswerfortheircureorfor theirhealth
DR BIANCA VEGA: So I always say that we don’t compete with anything Wejust Wejustshowhealth Wejustshowpeoplehowto take control of their health We just show people, what are the root costs?Wehelpthepeoplewhoseetherootcosts Wehelppeopleto feelbetter Andwiththat,youdon’thavetocompetewithanythingor anyone Youjust,youknow,youdowhatyouhavetodoandpatients feelbetter It’sscience
TRACY WOOD: Well, and that’s the thing The part that annoys me about our community and our industry is the people who are not practitioners. The people who are not practitioners didn’t go through everythingyouguysdid.Theydidn’tgoandtakeallofthosecourses andreallydotheunderthehoodwork.
They found something, it resonated with them They had a magnetic personality,andtheyburstontotheworldasarealthing Ithinkthere’s a lot of that and I think that that’s why people do look at clinics like yours,Dr Vega-likeours,Dr Kostroman
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Mm-hmm
TRACY WOOD: At The DNA Co, we have educated, certified, and credentialed providers here We vet them to ensure they’re all welltrained They’reallwell-respected Andthesameforyou,Dr Vega But peopledohavetobeaware
People really have to look at that person who’s standing on a stage tellingyouto,youknow,“Jumpstartyourcarwithcrystals”That'sthe nicestthingIcouldhavesaid,“Jumpstartyourcarwithcrystals”You mightwanttoaskaquestionortwo.Hey,where’dyougotoschool, brother?Butpeopledon’t,right?Theydon’task.
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:That’saverysoundquestion Yeah Where doyouholdlicensure?
TRACYWOOD:Orask,where’dyougotoschool?
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: And Tracy, you know how many times we’vehadconversationswithanMDwho’swalkedinalittlebitscaly And then by the end of the conversation, they’re like, “Oh, so you’re actuallysmart,andyouactuallyknowwhatyou’retalkingabout”And youknow,thatcognitivedissonancecreepsinandthenthey’relike,“I don’tknowwhattodowiththis”
TRACY WOOD: So, Dr Vega, I know you’ve had a ton of challenges settingupthisclinic,right?
BIANCAVEGA:Yeah
TRACYWOOD:What'sthatbeenlikeforyou?
DR BIANCA VEGA: Well, I think that the most difficult challenge is, as we have been speaking about, is changing that quick fix mindset,andshowingpeoplethathealingreallytakestime But if you stick to our plan, to our personalized plan, to what your genomics says, well, you’re definitely going to make your chronic symptoms fade It doesn't matter if it's physical or mental
Oneofmybiggestchallengesistofixthatthatquickfixmindset, and help people know that the waiting time for the personalized program allows you to get better even faster than with another traditional treatment and that it’s worth every battle or every dollarthatyouspend
I’ll always tell my patients, “You know, whatever you spend in your DNA kit, your microbiome kit, and every 360 kit - we also havethenarrowcheck–youonlyspendonce,”becauseassoon as you know what’s happening with yourself, you’ll choose that Youwillnotbedependingonanyothermedication
You will only be depending on the supplements that your body needs So basically, I think that education is one of my biggest challengesrightnow
TRACY WOOD: I think it’s like what you said, people come in and they think, well, I’ve already spent all this money and I’ve alreadydoneallthisstuffwithnoimmediateresults
As adults, we will invest in a car. Why do we invest in a car? Because we need to get from here to there. Why do we invest in a nicer car? Because we’d like to get from here to there in comfort and with certainty of reliability, right? If you want to really do something for yourself, you have to look at it as importantaswhatelseyouputyourmoneyinto
This is your house Your genetics is your foundation If you do notunderstandhowtomakesurethatfoundationisnotcracked, damaged, or destroyed, your house is going to come crumbling down Andpeopleneedtounderstandthat
I think it’s great what you guys are doing, Dr Vega You guys are educating You guys are letting people learn at their own pace, but you’re encouraging that and you’re really inspiring change in your patients I love that about what you guys are doing So, where are you headed? I know you’ve got a few practitioners in the practice now Where is the Welli Clinic going to be in five years?
DR. BIANCA VEGA: Well, we are working with a franchise. So basically, we just opened our first clinic in February, and we already have plans to open the next four clinics in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. This is going fast because we are the first and only clinic in Puerto Rico right now focusing on biohacking andgut-brainhealth
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Amazing
DR BIANCA VEGA: And we also have you guys as our partners and working with us So basically, in five years, we want a lot of people to look back and say, wow, you changed my life You changedmykid’slife Andwewanttobeaccessible
We’re spreading the word about traditional, about biohacking, and we’re spreading the word about getting control of your own health.Yeah.
TRACYWOOD:Ilovethat I’msoexcitedforyou AndIwillcometo the Caribbean I just want to throw that out there I’m a team player I’mgoingtodowhatIhavetodotohelp
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yes,wearewaitingforyou AndI’msohappythat youpartnerwithustochangepeople’slives Thisissomethingthatwe aredefinitelybreakingsometraditionalbeliefs Wearebreakingsome myths. But I know that this is the future of wellness, and this is just gettingstarted.We'restartingthismovementhereinPuertoRicoand theCaribbean.
DR BIANCAVEGA:Well,asIsaid,Iwantpeopletolookbackandsay, like, she taught us how to, she taught us how to take control of our healthandstopblamingourbodiesandstartworkingwiththem
TRACYWOOD:Whatdoyousee?
DR BIANCA VEGA: I want people to see us in 5, 10 years and say, with you or with Welli, I learned that my body has its own power to heal
TRACYWOOD:Nice Ilovethat Dr Kostroman,anythoughts?
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Astothatlegacy,Iloveit
TRACY WOOD: Absolutely I'm excited for her I can’t wait to watch this Theseguyshavepickedupsomuchpace They’redoingatonof testing TheyliterallyopenedthedoorinFebruaryandthey’reoneof ourbusiestfranchiseesrightnow
DR KRISTAKOSTROMAN:Iloveit WhatIlovemostaboutthatmodel is that when you change the mind of one person around how much authority and autonomy they can have over their health, that to an extent becomes infectious Because when the community witnesses someone who has gone from unwell in whatever state that was to a consistentstateofwell,peopleaskquestionsandthenthatempowers thecommunitytobelike,well,iftheycoulddoit,maybeIcould,too And then you start to shift the health of not just that person, but of others
It’sjustlikewethinkofunwellnessasinfectiousaswell Youputina McDonald's somewhere and that is the main feeding source of a community.Thecommunitybecomesunwell,butifyouputinaclinic andaclinicinparticularthatisseekingtobetterpeople,thatbecomes infectious. And so like the scientist in me is kind of like, maybe we track all the data. Maybe we track the community, see what they're doing.
DR BIANCAVEGA:Yes,andit’ssoamazingalsotoseehowwehelp people or families to break generational traumas because we help peopletoshowtheirkids,asyousaid,Dr Krista,youhelppeopleto showtheirkidsortheirfamilyasIdidwithmyownfamily Meandmy husbandwithourkids,helpingourfamilygetoutofmedications,and seeinghowallofthischangedourpersonallivesandalsoourpatients’ lives
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: Yeah, on a behavioral level, but also an epigenetic level, like the evidence that is mounting toward what you passontoyourchildrenepigeneticallytobeabletosolvethatfamilial
TRACYWOOD:Well,andIthinkoneofthethingsthat'sgoingto bereallyimportant,especiallyinyourpartoftheworld,ispeople have to understand they’ve got to invest in themselves They’ve got to understand that as a clinical practitioner, as someone that's bringing all of these cutting edge tools, you’re putting everythingintoit
You’re putting your money on the line. You’re putting your reputationontheline.Youareincreasingyoureducation.Youare training and propagating who you are and what you do in multiple regions. That all takes a ton of heart, a ton of money and a ton of what we call intestinal fortitude, which means you’ve got the guts to get it done, right? And people who come into your clinic need to understand that they’ve got to invest in themselves
They’ve got to bite the bullet on, you know, the several hundred bucks for this test or, you know, $250 for that hour or half hour with you or whatever the case may be They’ve got to recognize thatiftheydothat,theirhouseisgoingtostandtall Theirhouse is going to be great They don’t have to worry about it coming crumblingdownwheretheyendup
They’re not able to ambulate over 70 They can’t pick up anything heavier than a gallon of milk I mean, people shouldn’t live like that You don’t want to live like that So put that time and put that money in because you’re putting all the time and themoneyindoc
DR. BIANCA VEGA: Yes, and the real deal is that as soon as people come, they see that, yeah, they see, look well, I have to spendonmyhealthrightnow
Butassoonastheycome,theysee,asIsaidbefore,theyspend lessbecausetheydon'thavetodependonthemedication They don’t have to depend on paying health care insurance which is so expensive because they take control of their health and they knowhowtochangetheirhabits
We help people step-by-step change their habits and use technology, supplements, and functional genomics to know that this is their personalized wellness plan or their personalized wellnesssolutionandtheywillgetthere It’sprettyamazing And we have like, a 97% retention rate for patients that really stay with us because they come with us only to find the root cause, butthentheyfindinusthatwehaveallofthistechnology
So they optimize their health with us. As soon as you find your root cause, then you can also prevent other illness or other mental or physical diseases if you stay with our plans, or with our membership plans in the clinic because we help you not just getthere,butpreventfutureillnessorsomethinglikethat
DR KRISTA KOSTROMAN: Yeah, I think that’s a fascinating idea within medical care, right? I think in particular, when people come into the model of seeking root cause, I think conventionally, you expect to get well enough, whatever that lookslike
But then to be taken into a space where you’re truly well, that shifts your experience of life and then your expectation of life Onceyouknowwhatwellfeelslike,andonceyouknowthatwell is possible beyond, you know, being 20, 25, then there’s that elementofaddictiontoittoacertainextent,averyhealthy
addiction I would offer, but something that you know how you could feel.
And so, you begin to invest, act, and live in a way that enables that feeling best, which is which is such a happy, interesting byproduct. I lovethatyou'reabletogetpeoplethereandofferthattopeople.
TRACY WOOD: The fact is, ladies, we can change the day we die, right? I mean, that’s really the bottom line. We can do that. We have thescientificevidencetoprovethatyoucanreverseandprevent,and youcandososafely,effectively,andconsistently.Andthat’swhatyou guysaredoingatWelli.
I’m super excited. Dr. Vega, thank you so much for joining us this morning.Iknowyourpracticeisverybusy.Dr.Kostroman,asalways, thank you for being here. Ladies, this has been delightful and I’m superexcitedtocomeandseeyou.Ican’twait.It’llbefun.
Andthankyou.AsIsaid,I’msuperblessedtomeetyou,Krista,andto see you again, Tracy. I hope together, we can change a lot of lives because I know you both also are in the same mindset as we are. We're going to go worldwide. We are basically making a lifetime movement,alifestylemovement.Thankyouforeverything.
SALT-BASED VS. PLANT-BASED ELECTROLYTES: WHICH IS BETTER?
by Caroline Alan | Co-Founder & CEO Beam Minerals, Inc.
Salt-based electrolytes are inexpensive and easy to produce, which makes them popular with the vast majority of electrolyte producers. But mineral salts also have several downsides that make them an ineffective choice for replenishing electrolytes or increasingthebody’shydration.
A superior option is plant-based fulvic electrolytes, which have greater bioavailability and contain the full spectrum of electrolytes and minerals your body needs. These natural, trace mineral substances provide all the necessary natural ratios your body needs to receive them, as well as the deliverysystemforthoseelementsintoyourcells.
Let’s compare salt-based and plant-based electrolytes and talk aboutwhythelatterareabetterchoiceforstayinghydrated.
The Problems with Salt-Based Electrolytes
There is currently a huge surge of marketing around using saltbased electrolytes to support hydration. You’ll find them in all the popular brand-name sports drinks and electrolyte powders. They’re cheap and easy to produce, and they also mix well with flavorings, sweeteners, and colors. From a performance and health perspective, however, salt-based electrolytes have a few drawbacks.
HumansAre FreshWater Beings
Human beings are land animals and freshwater creatures, which means that our digestive tracts are fresh-water systems. Though the human body requires salt on a regular basis (in fairly large amounts), we get plenty of salt from the foods we eat. If you have ever tried to eat a low-salt diet you will know how hard it is to lower salt intake, unless you cook all your food, avoid the saltshaker, and eat no processed foods at all. According to a 2019 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)[1], the average American already gets 160% of their daily recommended amount from food. An adult human should consumenomorethan2300mgofsaltdaily.
High-Dose Salts Create Imbalance
In its effort to balance the concentration, the body will pull balancing minerals from other locations in the body. In an effort to eliminate excess, the body will make you urinate more, causing a flushing of H20 and minerals from your body. Overuse of salt-based electrolytes can cause chronic, frequent urination as the lining of the bladder and urination tract become irritated. Neither scenario supports balance in, or hydration of, your body’secosystem.
PoorAbsorption
Salt-based electrolytes were designed for intense electrolyte imbalance in soldiers and athletes, where a critical, short-term infusion was necessary. They were not intended to be used on a dailybasis.
When you eat food with salt in it, the salt is mixed with many other elements in your gut microbiome, so the salt is not received in intense concentrated amounts. However, many saltbased electrolyte products contain 1000mg of mineral salts. Whenyouputthisamountofsaltintoyourgut,allatonetime,in addition to the salt you get from the foods you eat, you end up withexcess.
These salt-based electrolyte products can create intense concentrationsofsaltsinthegutmicrobiomeoverashortperiod of time. This causes an imbalance that requires the body to find ways to balance the salt concentration or eliminate the excess.
When you take electrolytes in salt form, your bodycan’t absorb them well. The reason sugars, like glucose or dextrose, are added to many salt-based electrolyte formulations is because they increase absorption dramatically, driving salt-bound electrolytes into your cells [2]. But if you don’t want a bunch of sugar and you choose a sugar-free electrolyte supplement, you won’tabsorbmuchofwhatyoutake.
Poor Solubility
Mineral salts vary a great deal when it comes to solubility. Some dissolveeasilyintoliquid,likesalts,whileothersremainseparate if you add too much of them. Sodium salts have very high solubility. They dissolve very well in water, and if you look at the labels of most electrolyte powders, you’ll see huge quantities of sodium, because the manufacturers are trying to make their productsdissolveinwatereasily.
An Effective Option to Support Hydration: Plant-Based Fulvic Electrolytes
Plant-based electrolytes are derived froma natural substance called humate. Humate is a dark-colored crystalline substance that comes from ancient, decomposed rain forests and contains afullspectrumofmineralsandelectrolytes.
At BEAM Minerals, we start with pure humate and extract an incredibly powerful mineral complex called fulvic. This molecule represents Mother Nature’s hydration support technology, providingallthemineralsandelectrolytesthebodyneeds,inthe proper ratios. But, even more importantly, fulvic is a powerful flavonoid and provides efficient delivery of minerals and electrolytes directly into the cells, where they can make a difference. A 2015 study found that fulvic substances mademagnesium74%morebioavailableandcalcium104%more bioavailable [3]. A 2018 review noted that fulvic significantly increased absorption of potassium, magnesium, and calcium, andalsospeduptheirdeliverytothegut[4].
BEAM Minerals Electrolyze™ is straight fulvic, with no flavors or additives—just minerals and water! This means that it will start working in your body immediately! If you want to truly hydrate yourbody,losethesaltsandtryfulvic,you’llnevergoback!
Hot flashes are like your internal thermostat short-circuiting When estrogen levels dip during perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause) and menopause itself, your hypothalamus – the brain’s temperature control center – panics Think of it as a confused DJ mixing up chill vibes and heavy metal Even a tiny rise in core body temperature triggers a meltdown: blood vessels dilate to release heat, your heart races, and sweat erupts like a broken sprinkler [1] These episodes last one to five minutes but can leave you feeling like you have run a marathoninawoolsweater
Night sweats are just hot flashes’ sneaky cousin, hijacking your sleep with drenched PJs and a mattress that feels like a water park[1,2]
Why Does Menopause = HeatWave Central?
Estrogen isn’t just for reproduction – it’s a key player in temperature regulation As estrogen levels roller-coaster during perimenopause, your hypothalamus becomes hypersensitive It’s like your body’s thermostat gets stuck on “tropical vacation mode,” misfiring at the slightest provocation [3,4] But it’s not just low estrogen causing chaos – rapid fluctuations are the real troublemakers[1,5]
Scientists have also pinpointed a brain chemical called neurokinin B as a hot flash instigator When estrogen drops, neurokinin B revs up, shouting “CODE RED!” to your nervous systemandtriggeringthosefieryepisodes[3,5]
About 25% of women get severe hot flashes that disrupt daily life, while others barely notice them [6,7] Genetics, lifestyle, and overall health all influence where you land on this spectrum
Your Genes:The Secret Sauce Behind the Sizzle
Your DNA might explain why your friend breezes through menopause while you are stockpiling handheld fans Key genes linkedtohotflashseverityinclude:
COMT(rs4680)
The“cleanupcrew”genethatbreaksdownestrogenand stress hormones Certain variants slow this process, potentially leading to hormonal traffic jams and worse hotflashes[6,8].
CYP1B1(rs1056836)&CYP1A2(rs762551)
These genes act like molecular scissors, cutting estrogen into usable pieces Some variants snip less efficiently, altering estrogen levels and dialing up the heat[9,10]
TPH2(rs4570625)
A serotonin producer Since serotonin helps regulate body temperature and mood, glitches here might mean hotterflashesandcrankiermoods[11,12]
BDNF(rs6265)
This brain-booster gene affects how neurons adapt to hormonal changes Certain variants might make your hypothalamusextrajitteryduringestrogenswings[3,12]
MTHFR(rs1801133)
Famous for its role in processing vitamins, this gene also influences mood While not directly causing hot flashes, it’s linked to depression that often accompanies them [13,14]
Why Hot Flashes Hog the Menopause Spotlight
Hot flashes have been menopause’s poster child for centuries –and for good reason Up to 80% of women experience them, compared to 50% for mood swings or 30% for memory issues [1] Historically, they have been easier to spot (no one misses a woman fanning herself furiously at a 1700s tea party) But modern science shows they are more than just a nuisance –they’re a window into the complex dance between hormones, genes,andbrainchemistry.
The Silver Lining (Yes, Really!)
Hot flashes don’t last forever. Most women see them fade within four to seven years as their bodies adjust to stable, lower estrogenlevels[1,3] Andwhileyourgenesloadthegun,lifestyle pullsthetrigger:
Avoidtriggers(spicyfood,caffeine,stress)
Layerclothingforeasywardrobestrip-downs
Explore treatments – from hormone therapy to non-hormonal medications to herbs and medicinal plants [3,5,15]; of course,undertheguidanceofahealthcareprofessional
So next time a hot flash hits, remember you are not crazy, you are not alone, and you are definitely not boring Your body’s just throwingatemporarytantrum–withasideofscience
7 kiB,Warenik-Szymankiewicz orphicvariantsofgenes D1andtheriskofdepression d Maturitas 2008;61(3):2528.002 ewofeffectiveherbal lsymptoms Electron ublished2017Nov25
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