3dT4E4Rnm

Chapter 2. Nutrigenomics and the Methylation Cycle
In undertaking Nutrigenomic testing, our goal is to identify which genes along
the pathway have single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs (pronounced snips).
To help provide a sense of what you may find when you get back test results for
you or your child, I’ll offer a brief introduction to some of these SNPs. A more
comprehensive explanation of all of them (and how they interact) can be found
in my book, Genetic Bypass. I also continually update my findings in the online
chat room, so please make sure to check there as well.
Why Gene Testing
Because of recent breakthroughs, we can now test for specific areas of genetic
weaknesses. Yet, despite the great opportunity for improvement offered by understanding
and addressing SNPs, this potential remains untapped for a variety
of reasons. One reason is that people have felt concern about the potential misuse
of genetic screening to discriminate in employment or insurance coverage.
However, a federal law, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008
(GINA), now offers protection to those who want to make use of this new area
of science.
Other people are fearful of finding out their exact genetic weaknesses, particularly
when gene testing may reveal the potential for illnesses for which there is
no effective treatment. I understand this concern, and I also do not believe in
testing if we have no positive way in which to address results we receive. I believe
in focusing on genetics in pathways in which we do know how to address mutations
that are found. I consider it a waste to possess this technology and fail to
use it to our advantage. I think these kinds of assessments should be made in
the context of following the program and using nutritional supplementation. In
other words, targeted genetic testing is appropriate in my view when it fine tunes
the approach, rather than merely serves idle curiosity.
That’s why I’ve been using my knowledge of biomolecular Nutrigenomics to
define ways to address genetic weakness through supplementation, RNAs, and
other approaches. Once the molecular pathways affected by specific SNPs are
known, Nutrigenomics uses combinations of nutrients, foods, and natural ribonucleic
acids to bypass these mutations and restore proper pathway function.
With this approach, you’re not just giving yourself or your child a one-size-fitsall
array of supplements without some prior indication that this particular child
is going to benefit from taking them. The use of genetic testing allows us to not
only know our genetic profiles, but to take full advantage of that knowledge.
This is commonly done with a simple saliva test, cheek swab, or finger prick
blood sample. I prefer the blood sample because I find the results to be more
consistent and accurate. So let’s say you decide to go ahead and test yourself and
your child. What exactly will the test reveal
Autism: Pathways to Recovery
47