The InsideTracker testing and analytics kits service was launched by Cambridge, MA-based Segterra in 2013. While healthcare professionals use blood tests to assess if you have normal or abnormal values, InsideTracker is interested in optimal levels. The platform’s personalized nutrition support is based on blood tests of 41 select biomarkers.
GoalGetter is InsideTracker’s first product to integrate DNA-powered insights, and is a natural continuation of the company’s science-based blood analytics platform, founder and CSO, Gil Blander, PhD, told NutraIngredients-USA.
By integrating self-reported physiological information about personal behaviors and preferences, GoalGetter is able to provide the best science-based recommendations about nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle, said Dr Blander.
“DNA is an additional input that allows us to be more granular” he said. “We feel there is enough evidence to begin to educate consumers on the impact their lifestyle can genuinely have on their health and that DNA data is a valuable component of that story.
“The mission of InsideTracker is to help people live longer, healthier lives, and the combination of blood, genetic and physiological data that can drive decision making around lifestyle is the right approach. We want to identify and supply consumers with the best actionable recommendations based on the best available science.”
How it works
GoalGetter, which has been almost two years in the making, uses DNA to tell consumers which goal best fits their genes. Helix sequences DNA from a saliva sample, and then InsideTracker analyzes 261 of genetic markers and compares them to a personal Exome+ data generated in the Helix CAP and CLIA-accredited laboratory, in order to determine genetic potential for single genetic traits (like lactose intolerance) as well as broad groups of traits (like athletic power and endurance).
Similar to InsideTracker’s blood-based products, individuals have the ability to set new goals, create reminders, and download recipes and other tips.
The goals
Consumers can set goals, including weight (based on analysis of genes that influence glucose, cholesterol, response to carbohydrates, inflammation, and saturated fat metabolism); performance (based on analysis of genes that influence athletic endurance and strength, injury risk, testosterone, B12, oxygen transport, and red blood cells); sleep (based on analysis of genes that influence caffeine response, bedtime, magnesium, and glucose); and healthy aging (based on analysis of genes that influence vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, liver enzymes, inflammation, glucose, blood pressure, and white blood cells).
GoalGetter also provides data on an individual’s genetic potential for food sensitivities, which may influence dietary choices and the personalized recommendations. The platform analyzes caffeine, gluten, and lactose, as well as predisposition to peanut allergy.
The science
Dr Blander spent five years at MIT after 10 years at the Weizmann Institute and has done extensive research into biological markers in the blood. The company’s scientific advisory board reads like a who’s who of the best researchers of nutrition and aging in the US, including Prof David Sinclair from Harvard Medical School, Prof Jeff Blumberg from Tufts University, Prof Lenny Guarente from MIT, and Prof Roger Fielding from Tufts University.
Commenting on GoalGetter, Dr. Sinclair, Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, said: “The time has come for DNA to improve the lives of millions of people. We are proud to be a leader in bringing to the customer next-gen advances in personalized nutrition, wellness, and performance.”
The company stressed that while DNA can’t tell you everything about one’s past, present, and future, it can reveal the potential for certain traits and adds yet another layer of scientific insight to the overall picture of an individual’s body.
[“Source-nutraingredients”]