If you are over age 30, you probably remember learning about the USDA’s Food Pyramid in grade school. It was simple, right? You had your different food groups with a suggested daily serving, and the groups at the top of the pyramid should be consumed less than the groups at the bottom. It was a one-size-fits-all nutritional guideline. Since then, food science has come a long way and we now know the old food pyramid left a lot to be desired when considering a healthy diet. Unfortunately, navigating today’s nutritional advice isn’t much easier. With diet plans like paleo, keto, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, flexitarian, and the like, how do you know what is right for you? Nutrigenomics may be your personalized solution.

Nutrigenomics (also known as nutritional genomics) is the study of how nutrition impacts genes, with a specific interest in how the diet may contribute to or prevent disease. Scientists have been studying human genetics for many years, but with advancements in DNA science and testing technology, the science has moved from laboratories to consumer products. In the field of nutrigenomics, one quick saliva sample can show how certain foods you eat might impact your overall health. Your individual genetic profile can offer basic suggestions on how your body responds to different foods and nutrients like caffeine, whole grains, fats and salt. It may identify foods that may contribute to weight gain or digestive issues for you, while for others it may not. For example, did you know that caffeine increases the risk of heart disease for some people found with a specific gene while acts as a heart protectant for those with a slightly different gene? The smallest variant in your genes can have a significant effect on your diet.

Fricks Pharmacy has partnered with the industry’s leading nutritional genomics testing company to offer patients a simple and informative way to build a dietary plan based on their individual genetic makeup. But there’s more. With one simple saliva sample, you’ll learn how your genes can affect your:

Body composition • Cardio-metabolic health • Nutrient metabolism • Fertility • Food intolerances • Eating habits • Exercise performance • Mental focus • Pain tolerance • Physical activity • Injury risk • Recovery • Weight management

Then, we’ll work with you to develop a personalized diet, vitamin and supplement regimen, and physical activity recommendations. Other questions our customers have asked:

How do you take my DNA sample?

It’s easy: you come into the pharmacy, and we administer a safe, non-invasive cheek swab.

Is it secure?

Your information is protected! Your personal demographic information will be stored in Fricks’ HIPAA-secure database, and the lab will only receive the sample attached to an anonymized barcode. Your sample is also protected by the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. The link between the two entities is password encrypted using 256-bit encryption.

How long does it take to get my results?

Once the laboratory receives your DNA sample from Fricks Pharmacy, it should take approximately 2 weeks. We will contact you once we receive the results and schedule a time to discuss them with you.

To learn more about Nutrigenomics and if it’s right for you, contact us at (850) 665-4657 or [email protected].