The thyroid is an endocrine gland in the neck that produces two thyroid hormones - triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), and calcitonin. Thyroid hormones control the metabolism of almost every cell in the body, with wide-ranging metabolic, developmental and cardiovascular effects. 

Histamine has many functions: as a neurotransmitter, communicating messages to and from the brain and nervous system; triggering the release of stomach acid to help digestion; and it can also be released after stress, injury or allergic reaction as part of the body’s immune response. 

Steroid hormones are a group of hormones derived from cholesterol that act as chemical messengers in the body. They are involved in the regulation of many physiological processes in both men and women, such as the development and function of the reproductive system, metabolism, inflammation and immune system. 

Detoxification is the physiological removal of toxic substances from the human body. It is mainly carried out by the liver, and to a lesser extent the small intestine, kidneys and lungs. Substances such as nutrients, food additives, pesticides, medications, air pollutants, alcohol and hormones are transformed from being fat-soluble to water-soluble, allowing them to be more easily excreted from the body. The process occurs in two major phases: Phase I primes toxic molecules for deactivation and Phase II finishes the deactivation and prepares for elimination.

This foundational test analyses how gene variants can affect the absorption, distribution and excretion of metals and minerals, impacting their balance and status in the body.

Whilst essential minerals are necessary in adequate amounts for health, excessive intake and accumulation can be detrimental. Additionally, environmental heavy metals are toxic to humans and pose serious health risks. 

Methylation is the process of adding methyl groups, consisting of one carbon and three hydrogen atoms, to other molecules. It is involved in almost every metabolic process in the body, occurring billions of times every second in our cells and contributing to numerous crucial functions. 

Metabolism refers to all cellular chemical reactions and is essential for life. It can be divided into ‘anabolism’ (‘build up’ e.g synthesis of sugars, fats, proteins and nucleic acids) and catabolism (‘break down’ e.g., releasing energy in the form of ATP). These processes, and the balance between them, are the key to healthy energy metabolism and cellular function.

The report transforms our understanding of how genes confer metabolic individuality and underpin energy regulation, longevity and healthspan.