Written by: Roseanne Schnell, CDN, Lead Dietitian-Nutritionist at Shed
What if we told you that a simple saliva test could offer a peek into your future—not in a crystal ball way, but in a science-backed, DNA way? That’s the excitement of genetic testing for longevity. It’s about understanding your genetic makeup and what might influence your chances of living a longer, healthier life.
Longevity and your DNA
At Shed we emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyle habits such as what you eat, how often you move, how well you sleep, and how you manage stress. We lead with science in all that we do.
Your genes also play a role. Some people are simply born with genetic variants that may give them an advantage when it comes to aging gracefully—and the opposite is also true. The science of longevity genetics looks at variations in your DNA that can affect things like:
- How your cells repair damage
- How well you respond to oxidative stress and inflammation
- How efficiently your body removes toxins
- How long your cells stay “young”
One way to look into this cellular aging process is through your telomeres.
Telomeres: Your biological countdown clock
Telomeres are the protective caps on the ends of your chromosomes, kind of like the plastic tips on your shoelaces. Every time your cells divide, your telomeres get a little shorter. Eventually, they become too short to do their job, and that’s when aging and cell breakdown starts to speed up.
Some genetic tests can give insight into the length of your telomeres. In other words, you can get an idea of how old your cells are compared to how old you are in terms of years.
Shorter telomeres have been linked to:
- Faster aging
- Greater risk of chronic illness
- Decreased lifespan
Longer telomeres are a sign that your cells may be aging more slowly, especially when paired with healthy lifestyle habits.
DNA tests and predicting your lifespan
Your genes offer valuable clues about your potential for longevity, but they’re just one part of the equation. Your DNA is the architectural layout, not the finished home. Your daily habits, environment, and even your mindset all influence how those genetic blueprints play out. Genetic testing empowers you to be proactive, not reactive with your health and wellness.
Genetic testing can help you:
- Understand your risk factors earlier
- Make targeted changes to support healthy aging
- Choose supplements, foods, and movement strategies that align with your body
DNA isn’t your destiny, but it can be a great guide
At Shed, we believe that knowledge is power. Knowing what your genes say about longevity can help you make smarter choices to support a longer, stronger life. Because at the end of the day, becoming the real you isn’t just about the real number of years in your life—it’s about the healthy beautiful life in your years.
Want to explore your genetic potential for healthy aging?
Reach out to learn more about our personalized testing and anti-inflammatory nutrition support.
Genetic testing FAQs
How does genetic testing work?
Genetic testing is super simple. All you have to do is submit a saliva sample to an accredited lab—and then await your results! Visit the Shed website to learn more about how this process works.
Is genetic testing useful if I already live a healthy lifestyle?
Absolutely! Knowing your genetic dispositions can help you fine-tune your wellness goals and give you insights on which areas of your health to pay more attention to as you age.
Will genetic testing tell me if I’m at risk for certain diseases?
While genetic testing won’t tell you exactly what’s in store for you down the road, it does help you understand how your body works, from how it processes nutrients to how you handle stress. One simple test will give you personalized, easy-to-understand insights that will help you eat smarter, manage stress more effectively, and make more informed choices for your long-term health and well-being.
Does lifestyle really make that much of a difference?
Lifestyle can make a big difference in your quality of life and years lived. You may not be able to change your DNA, but you can influence how it’s expressed through a process called epigenetics. Nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management all play major roles in activating or silencing certain genetic pathways.
*This content is for informational purposes and is not medical advice.
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