FAQ
Frequently asked questions about our DNA test kits
How DNA test kits from dnaPower differ from others
How does dnaPower choose which genes to test for?
Our team of experts has carefully selected the genes we analyze based on extensive peer-reviewed genetic scientific and clinical research. We have chosen the genetic markers that have a substantial impact on your health.
How can dnaPower help me avoid health risks?
By testing your DNA in areas proven to impact health and fitness, we are able to understand the instructions in your DNA. This knowledge can help you make decisions that are right for you and can help you to avoid risks based on your personal genetic makeup. We can develop a customized program to support your genes to prevent poor health and chronic disease. At dnaPower, we sequence over 200 health, fitness and wellness genes to target information to support your preventative health.
Our team of experts has carefully selected the genes we analyze based on extensive peer-reviewed genetic scientific and clinical research. We have chosen the genetic markers that have a substantial impact on your health.
How can dnaPower help me avoid health risks?
By testing your DNA in areas proven to impact health and fitness, we are able to understand the instructions in your DNA. This knowledge can help you make decisions that are right for you and can help you to avoid risks based on your personal genetic makeup. We can develop a customized program to support your genes to prevent poor health and chronic disease. At dnaPower, we sequence over 200 health, fitness and wellness genes to target information to support your preventative health.
General
What is DNA Sequencing?
Sequencing is the process of determining the exact order of nucleotides in a genome. In the past decade since the human genome was first sequenced in its entirety, researchers have been decoding what specific gene pairs indicate. Countless studies have been done, linking sequences of our DNA and specific variations in that sequence, to our health.
How is DNA relevant to my health?
Everyone has sections of DNA that are unique to them. Depending on your genetic makeup, you might find that your body responds to certain exercises and foods better than others. The variations in an individual’s genetic material can also predispose a person to health issues such as weight gain, inflammation, metabolic problems, and chronic disease. Variations of genes may be beneficial in some circumstances, but problematic in others. We provide you with information on the areas that may pose health risks.
How old do I have to be before I can take the tests?
There is no minimum age; anyone can have a DNA analysis done! Parental consent is required if you are under 18 years of age. We have worked with newborns to seniors.
Is this like the Blood Type Diet? Or any other type of diet system?
The blood type diet was created on the premise that those with different blood types will also process food differently as well as have different predispositions to various diseases. This concept was put to the test in a 1,455 participant study by the University of Toronto. The findings revealed markers of health are independent of one’s blood type. Although the blood type diet seemed like a logical approach, there is much more specific information you can learn from your DNA.
Sequencing is the process of determining the exact order of nucleotides in a genome. In the past decade since the human genome was first sequenced in its entirety, researchers have been decoding what specific gene pairs indicate. Countless studies have been done, linking sequences of our DNA and specific variations in that sequence, to our health.
How is DNA relevant to my health?
Everyone has sections of DNA that are unique to them. Depending on your genetic makeup, you might find that your body responds to certain exercises and foods better than others. The variations in an individual’s genetic material can also predispose a person to health issues such as weight gain, inflammation, metabolic problems, and chronic disease. Variations of genes may be beneficial in some circumstances, but problematic in others. We provide you with information on the areas that may pose health risks.
How old do I have to be before I can take the tests?
There is no minimum age; anyone can have a DNA analysis done! Parental consent is required if you are under 18 years of age. We have worked with newborns to seniors.
Is this like the Blood Type Diet? Or any other type of diet system?
The blood type diet was created on the premise that those with different blood types will also process food differently as well as have different predispositions to various diseases. This concept was put to the test in a 1,455 participant study by the University of Toronto. The findings revealed markers of health are independent of one’s blood type. Although the blood type diet seemed like a logical approach, there is much more specific information you can learn from your DNA.
Sample Collection
How is my DNA sample collected?
Our DNA sample collection kit contains a sterile cheek swab and simple instructions on how to collect your sample at home.
How long can I keep my samples before sending them to you?
dnaPower uses high quality Genotek swabs that come with a stabilization solution. The unused swab is good for two years. Once you have taken a sample, it is stable for several months. However, we recommend shipping your sample shortly after it is collected.
Why should I not drink tea or coffee for 30 minutes prior to sample collection?
Both coffee and tea contain chemicals that cause cells to tighten and adhere to the cheek more firmly. The effect is temporary, but it may impede collection of sufficient amount of DNA to perform the test. We recommend not eating or drinking anything 30 minutes prior to taking the test.
How safe are the tests?
There is no danger to you and our tests are completely non-invasive. A simple cheek swab contains the necessary DNA for our tests.
Our DNA sample collection kit contains a sterile cheek swab and simple instructions on how to collect your sample at home.
How long can I keep my samples before sending them to you?
dnaPower uses high quality Genotek swabs that come with a stabilization solution. The unused swab is good for two years. Once you have taken a sample, it is stable for several months. However, we recommend shipping your sample shortly after it is collected.
Why should I not drink tea or coffee for 30 minutes prior to sample collection?
Both coffee and tea contain chemicals that cause cells to tighten and adhere to the cheek more firmly. The effect is temporary, but it may impede collection of sufficient amount of DNA to perform the test. We recommend not eating or drinking anything 30 minutes prior to taking the test.
How safe are the tests?
There is no danger to you and our tests are completely non-invasive. A simple cheek swab contains the necessary DNA for our tests.
Your Results
How long do I have to wait for my results?
Timing depends on the sequencing runs and the number of tests in queue to be processed. We utilize a very thorough process and ensure the utmost care and attention is taken with every run. Generally results are available 3–5 weeks after we receive your sample.
Are the results going to be too complicated for me to understand?
We've designed our reports to be user-friendly and easy to understand. You don’t need to have a background in genetic testing to understand your results and their significance to your health. You can also book a review with our DNA-certified practitioners if you would like assistance in walking through the results.
Will you test for any serious inherited diseases?
We focus on preventative health. Our tests are related to diet, fitness and everyday health. The only exception is brainPower, where we test for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. If you think you may carry the genes for an inherited disease, speak to your physician or healthcare professional.
Can my DNA tell me if I am ill?
No, we look at specific genes and variations in your biological roadmap related to preventative health. The variations are predispositions. We cannot tell where your health is today. If you think you may be ill, speak to your healthcare professional.
If I have a genetic variation or mutation is this bad?
Genetic variations make us who we are. There is no such thing as a ‘bad’ genotype, However, certain genetic variations will predispose you to certain outcomes. What’s important to keep in mind is that even though you may have an increased risk of a certain condition, nothing is set in stone. By learning your personal DNA, you can be more aware and knowledgeable in making better health and fitness decisions to promote a healthy mind and body.
Timing depends on the sequencing runs and the number of tests in queue to be processed. We utilize a very thorough process and ensure the utmost care and attention is taken with every run. Generally results are available 3–5 weeks after we receive your sample.
Are the results going to be too complicated for me to understand?
We've designed our reports to be user-friendly and easy to understand. You don’t need to have a background in genetic testing to understand your results and their significance to your health. You can also book a review with our DNA-certified practitioners if you would like assistance in walking through the results.
Will you test for any serious inherited diseases?
We focus on preventative health. Our tests are related to diet, fitness and everyday health. The only exception is brainPower, where we test for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. If you think you may carry the genes for an inherited disease, speak to your physician or healthcare professional.
Can my DNA tell me if I am ill?
No, we look at specific genes and variations in your biological roadmap related to preventative health. The variations are predispositions. We cannot tell where your health is today. If you think you may be ill, speak to your healthcare professional.
If I have a genetic variation or mutation is this bad?
Genetic variations make us who we are. There is no such thing as a ‘bad’ genotype, However, certain genetic variations will predispose you to certain outcomes. What’s important to keep in mind is that even though you may have an increased risk of a certain condition, nothing is set in stone. By learning your personal DNA, you can be more aware and knowledgeable in making better health and fitness decisions to promote a healthy mind and body.
Privacy
Who will have access to my DNA?
You will. All of the personal information you choose to share with us is kept strictly confidential. Under no circumstances will your information be disclosed to third parties, such as insurance companies or medical agencies. The exception is if you have ordered your test through a health practitioner—if you choose to share it with them, they will receive a copy of your results so that they may provide you with a report review.
What happens to my DNA?
We use the utmost privacy standards in managing your sample. The sample is managed and stored by barcode to preserve your privacy. We retain your DNA in the lab for several months in case you wish to order an additional test. All DNA is then disposed of following Canadian regulatory standards.
You will. All of the personal information you choose to share with us is kept strictly confidential. Under no circumstances will your information be disclosed to third parties, such as insurance companies or medical agencies. The exception is if you have ordered your test through a health practitioner—if you choose to share it with them, they will receive a copy of your results so that they may provide you with a report review.
What happens to my DNA?
We use the utmost privacy standards in managing your sample. The sample is managed and stored by barcode to preserve your privacy. We retain your DNA in the lab for several months in case you wish to order an additional test. All DNA is then disposed of following Canadian regulatory standards.
We provide the utmost privacy and confidentiality of your information. We are not in the business of selling data. We are in the business of helping people live a healthier life using personalized, science-based information. Learn more
Unlock the full potential of your health with dnaPower. Since 2008, we've empowered individuals to make smarter, data-driven health decisions. Discover the most comprehensive DNA testing for health and wellness today.
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