Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a different one, get in touch.
Why would I choose SmartGENES Genetic testing?
This is a highly technical field, and it can be very difficult to work out what is the best option or even to know which questions to ask. We have done that work for you. There are so many options available, and they are all different. Some are offering very useful information, and others are a complete waste of money (in our opinion) hidden behind a slick website. Of the good options, no two are the same, leaving it a confusing field to navigate. After all, you want to know you are getting meaningful information to get and live well.
Why don't you report on the whole genome?
Simply, because there is no good reason too. We all have thousands of SNPs, 99% of which have no scientifically proven relevance to our health. We know this through the information collected from the human genome project over the last few decades. We choose to use the science and only report on the SNPs that have a meaningful impact on your health. The information is accurate and useful. No fluff, no sales and marketing smokescreens.
Who conducts the test?
The myDNA Comprehensive Health Report is conducted by Nutripath in Victoria, Australia. Your DNA sample is extracted and genotyped at their secure CLIA and CAP certified lab. Each sample undergoes three stages of quality assurance to ensure the most accurate results possible. Nutripath is here to offer affordable, predictive and preventative based genetic testing for practitioners and their clients. Reporting software is provided by Nutrition Genome. Nutrition Genome Whole Body Health Reporting is used by 800+ doctors worldwide for their patients.
How long has this sort of testing been around?
Science has been investigating the role of genetics in our health since the early 80’s, with a huge amount of research in numerous countries taking place over the last couple of decades. However it is only recently that it has evolved into pathway genomics. Whilst there are thousands of genetic variations to be found within individuals, pathways genomics is concerned solely with those genetic variants that have large amounts of research to support their effects on health. These are genetic variants that we know affect our bodies without the right lifestyle interventions to “turn off” their expression
Does the test diagnose disease?
No, it does not. In no way does the report indicate the presence of any disease. What it does do, is show you the genetic variants that are present that have the potential to create disharmony depending on your lifestyle.
Nor will we give you a list of diseases and your risk percentage of "getting" them. In our opinion this completely misses the point of genetic testing and is of no benefit to you. Through genomic pathway testing you will understand the pathways that are compromised within the body, and be provided with strategies to optimise these, thus mitigating your risk. Now that is useful.
How are samples taken?
MyDNA Comprehensive Health report is a saliva test. You will be provided with a kit that is complete with instructions and everything you need to provide the sample. The unique cheek swab is super simple, and suitable for toddlers through to seniors.
How long does it take to get results?
Results will take 5-6 weeks to come back from the lab. You will be notified when the report is ready.
Why do I need a naturopath?
Choosing to come into clinic for a naturopathic consultation alongside your report is entirely optional. However, If you are struggling with a health condition, or simply want to get the best possible understanding of your report, a one hour consultation to go over the results is a great idea.
Many of the pathways investigated are highly complex, so guidance on the full impact of these genetic variants and insight into what is most important and where to start is entirely useful.
If you choose to simply purchase the report and utilize the information on your own, that is fine by us. We are happy to help steer you in the right direction.
What do you recommend if I am unwell?
A pre-test consultation for one hour is a useful option - during this time you get to give us a detailed understanding of your current health situation. In turn, we can advise whether the genetic test is the best testing option for you.
A post-test consultation is recommended. What your report will not tell you is the correlation between your current health issues, and the relevant SNP's. With this understanding we can assist you to "weight" your genetic priorities to get the best outcomes in the shortest possible time.
What training do you have that qualifies you to offer this type of service?
Vanessa Winter is a registered, qualified and experienced Naturopath of over 24 years with multiple degrees, diplomas, advanced training in DNA analysis interpretation and other disciplines.
BHSc.(HighDist.), BEd., Adv.Dip.Nat., Adv.Dip.Herb.Med.
Vanessa has many years of in-clinic experience with functional gut health, food intolerances as well as a generalised practice. With a growing awareness of personalised nutrition, Vanessa has founded SmartGENES Naturopathic Clinic to focus on this field of individualised healthcare.
Learn more about the SmartGENES Clinic and Vanessa on our About the Clinic page.
How much does it cost?
The cost for the myDNA Comprehensive Health Report is @NZD500.00. Current exchange rates will vary, and will be applied at the time of processing. At the time of ordering, you can ask for the confirmed price. Please refer to our Terms of Service for up-to-date payment and cancellation policies.
Are there any additional costs?
Any consultations with SmartGENES Naturopathic clinic pre or post receiving your report are additional charges to the testing, invoiced at our standard hourly rate or part thereof.
How do you take payments?
Your contract for the test is direct with Nutrisearch who administer Nutripath testing in New Zealand. Payment is made directly to Nutrisearch at the time of ordering the test. Payment for SmartGENES consultations are invoiced to you.
How do I get the best value out of this service and your consultations?
The service is designed for you to make some real and personalised changes to your health. This is not about a coffee table discussion that you have a “thrifty gene” which is why you are overweight. It is about providing some recommendations for you to drive optimal health through your lifestyle choices. So you need to be ready and motivated to understand and take responsibility for your own health and wellness.
Can I request NutriPath to delete my data after I receive the report?
The data is automatically deleted by myDNA after 60 days. The lab that runs the report has to hold onto the data for 4 years as a part of the NAATA accreditation process. However this data is stored on secure, encrypted serves, can't be identified to you, and will never be shared with any unknown third parties without consent.
What's your Cancellation/Refund Policy?
Your purchase of the my DNA Comprehensive Health Report is direct with Nutrisearch, the NZ agent for Nutripath testing. Their refund policy applies to your purchase of the myDNA Comprehenive Health Report and all/any other testing. Please enquire with them as to their current policies.
Terms for SmartGENES Naturopathic Clinic consultations:
Terms of service for SmartGENES Naturopathic Clinic