Nutrigenomix packaging

I have been learning a lot about nutrition and diets. After reading Gin Stephen’s book “Feast Without Fear,” I was curious to find out what kind of “personalized nutrition” options were available to me. I came across this company called Nutrigenomix (out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada) and talked to my doctor and dietician about it. It’s a genetic test for personalized nutrition worth $499.00 CAD, so I wanted to make sure it was worth it.  With a doctor’s referral, I could get 80% of the cost covered by Manitoba Blue Cross. My doctor agreed to give me a referral.

I found a dietician that was trained in doing this kind of testing (at the Wellness Institute in Winnipeg), and I booked an initial consultation with Laura. On the first visit, I had to read over and sign a consent form.

Page 1 of Nutrigenomix consent form

Page 2 of Nutrigenomix consent form

Tube for Nutrigenomix saliva (DNA) sample

Laura then took a history, a brief assessment and told me a little about the DNA test. She was very interested in my intermittent fasting, so we talked a little bit about that. I also told her about the Low FODMAP Diet (for irritable bowel syndrome) and that I was learning I have an intolerance to certain foods like pistachios, almonds, and wheat flour.

She opened up the packaging and told me to get ready to provide a saliva sample for the DNA test. I had done a similar test for Ancestry DNA a few years back, so I knew it would take me a while to fill the tube up to the line (not including bubbles!). She said she would call when the results were in, which would take about three to four weeks.

Easy-peasy. Now the wait begins. Stay tuned. Watch for Part 2 when I receive the results!

Angela G. Gentile, MSW, RSW