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	<title>SelfHack</title>
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	<description>Cutting-Edge Solutions For a Better Life</description>
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	<title>SelfHack</title>
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	<item>
		<title>What Happens to Your DNA When a Company Goes Bankrupt?</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/what-happens-to-your-dna-when-a-company-goes-bankrupt/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/what-happens-to-your-dna-when-a-company-goes-bankrupt/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:46:28 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[23andme]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[privacy]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92855</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>You may have heard the news that 23andMe just filed for bankruptcy, and a lot of people are wondering what this means for their data.</p>
<p>When a company like this goes under, everything it owns is considered an asset, <strong>including user data</strong>.</p>
<p>23andMe gave people a fun way to learn about their ancestry.</p>
<p>And while that’s great, your DNA is more than just a party trick, it’s not something that should be treated like a gimmick or sold to the highest bidder.</p>
<p>For years, 23andMe has had partnerships with pharmaceutical companies (initially not being very transparent about it either) , selling access to genetic data. Now that they’re in financial trouble, it raises a big question: What happens next? Who gets access to that data?</p>
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</p>
<p>This is exactly why privacy matters when it comes to genetic testing.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92855-_5xy91h1x7k1u"></a>Why SelfDecode is Different</h2>
<p>A lot of people have been reaching out, asking if they should be worried. If you’ve used 23andMe, I think it’s a valid concern.</p>
<p>But with SelfDecode, this is something you’ll <strong>never</strong> have to worry about.</p>
<p>We don’t share data with pharma companies.</p>
<p>We don’t treat your DNA as a product.</p>
<p><strong>We don’t sell data</strong>. Never have, never will.</p>
<p>Selling data has never been part of our business model. In fact, it’s been the complete opposite.</p>
<p>Since I started SelfDecode, my main “marketing” approach was to make sure everyone knows that we prioritize privacy and security above all.</p>
<p>We don’t rely on partnerships with pharma companies, and we don’t treat your DNA as a product to be sold.</p>
<p>The way we keep SelfDecode running is simple: we sell DNA kits (if you haven’t already had your DNA analyzed) and a SelfDecode membership, which gives you access to thousands of reports with personalized diet, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations. That’s it.</p>
<p>Your DNA is medical data. You wouldn’t hand over your full health records to a company without knowing exactly how they’ll use it, so why should your genetic information be any different? Your DNA holds the blueprint to your health, and it deserves the same level of protection as any other sensitive medical data.</p>
<p>That’s why we take privacy seriously at SelfDecode. We meet the gold standard of healthcare privacy, following HIPAA guidelines, unlike 23andMe, which isn’t HIPAA compliant.</p>
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</p>
<p><strong>We have it in our Terms of Service that if SelfDecode ever goes bankrupt, we will automatically delete everyone’s data. No one will be able to buy it, sell it, or access it. Your genetic data should belong to you, and no one else.</strong></p>
<h2><a id="post-92855-_coxym94z1i23"></a>Your Health, Your Data, Your Choice</h2>
<p>Everyone should have access to their genetic information without sacrificing their privacy.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/what-happens-to-your-dna-when-a-company-goes-bankrupt/">What Happens to Your DNA When a Company Goes Bankrupt?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
]]></description>
		
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		<item>
		<title>L. Reuteri, Food Sensitivities &#038; Cholesterol</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/l-reuteri-food-sensitivities-cholesterol/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/l-reuteri-food-sensitivities-cholesterol/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Mar 2025 18:22:14 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Probiotics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[L Reuteri]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[probiotics]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92845</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Most people take probiotics completely wrong.</p>
<p>They grab a random probiotic with 20+ strains, thinking more is better. But here’s the truth: strain specificity and dosage matter more than anything. If you’re not taking the right strain at the right dose, you’re just flushing your money down the toilet.</p>
<p>For me, L. Reuteri has been a game-changer. I’ve been taking 30x the usual dose for a while now, and the difference is huge. This isn’t something I recommend trying without knowing what you’re doing, but I’ve found that the right strain, at the right dose, can completely change the game.</p>
<p>This is one of the few strains with solid research behind it. I first got interested in L. Reuteri after coming across research showing how it could help with food sensitivities and allergies. That alone was enough to get my attention, but the more I researched it, the more I realized this probiotic has even more potential than most people are talking about.</p>
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</p>
<h2><a id="post-92845-_5t5l35o02qq6"></a>L. Reuteri &#38; Food Sensitivities</h2>
<p>For years, I struggled with food sensitivities. Certain foods would leave me feeling bloated, foggy, and sluggish. Even &#8220;healthy&#8221; foods would sometimes trigger issues.</p>
<p>What most people don’t realize is that food sensitivities aren’t always permanent. If you fix your gut, you can actually train your body to tolerate more foods again.</p>
<p>One of the reasons L. reuteri is so powerful is because it produces indole derivatives from tryptophan. These compounds activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a protein that helps regulate immune function and maintain the gut barrier.</p>
<p>When AhR is activated, it strengthens the gut lining and promotes regulatory T-cell activity, which can help reduce hypersensitive immune responses to foods.</p>
<p>When I looked at <a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-reuteri">SelfDecode</a>, food allergies were one of the top issues flagged for the things L. reuteri helps me with.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-reuteri"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92846 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-1.png" width="906" height="324" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-1.png 2048w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-1-480x172.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-1-1024x366.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-1-1536x549.png 1536w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-1-1920x686.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 906px) 100vw, 906px" /></a></p>
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</p>
<h2><a id="post-92845-_jo3c4bkok0tt"></a>The Link Between Gut Health &#38; Cholesterol</h2>
<p>Most people assume high cholesterol is just about diet or exercise. But your gut microbiome actually plays a huge role in how your body processes cholesterol.</p>
<p>Your gut bacteria help break down bile acids, which directly impacts how your body absorbs and clears cholesterol. Some bacteria (including L. Reuteri) have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and ApoB, which is one of the strongest markers for heart disease risk.</p>
<p>According to my <a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-reuteri">SelfDecode</a> results, I have a higher genetic risk for elevated ApoB, which means my body naturally holds onto cholesterol more than it should.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-reuteri"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92847 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-2.png" width="284" height="337" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-2.png 558w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92845-2-405x480.png 405w" sizes="(max-width: 284px) 100vw, 284px" /></a></p>
<h2><a id="post-92845-_q4fz66nsxcqc"></a>Are You Wasting Your Time on the Wrong Probiotic?</h2>
<p>If you’re taking a random probiotic without knowing if it actually works for you, the answer is probably yes.</p>
<p>Your gut microbiome is unique, which means what works for one</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/l-reuteri-food-sensitivities-cholesterol/">L. Reuteri, Food Sensitivities &#038; Cholesterol</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
]]></description>
		
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		<title>How MrBeast Can Fix His Crohn’s Disease</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/how-mrbeast-can-fix-his-crohns-disease/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/how-mrbeast-can-fix-his-crohns-disease/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:47:55 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Gut]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Crohn's disease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gut health]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92826</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I recently came across a podcast where MrBeast talked about his struggles with Crohn’s disease.</p>
<p>He mentioned that he takes medication for it but also acknowledged that there are probably better solutions—he just doesn’t have the time to research them.</p>
<p>This really resonated with me because so many people dealing with chronic conditions feel the same way.</p>
<p>They go to a doctor, get prescribed meds, and move on without realizing that there are often other options.</p>
<p>For MrBeast (and anyone else struggling with Crohn’s), I believe there’s a way to manage, and possibly eliminate, the disease without heavy immunosuppressants like Remicade, which can increase susceptibility to infections.</p>
<p>My approach to tackling any health condition—including Crohn’s—starts with understanding genetics, identifying environmental triggers, and implementing evidence-based lifestyle changes.</p>
<p>The key to truly understanding and managing this condition lies in <strong>genetics</strong>.</p>
<p>Your genes influence how your body responds to inflammation, food, and gut health.</p>
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</p>
<p>By looking at specific genetic markers, we can get a much clearer picture of what’s driving Crohn’s and what interventions might be most effective.</p>
<p>Here’s what I’d suggest if I were his health coach.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92826-_ilxqy5vkw66b"></a>Understanding Genetic Risks</h2>
<p>Using SelfDecode, I would first assess his DNA to determine if Crohn’s is primarily driven by genetics or environmental factors. A high genetic risk means certain pathways are overactive, while a low risk suggests external factors (like diet and gut microbiome imbalances) are the main culprits.</p>
<p>We have a Crohn’s Disease Report that looks at over 1 million genetic variants to determine your genetic risks.</p>
<p>My genes do not predispose me to Crohn’s disease, but for someone like Mr. Beast it might have massive implications on what would work for him, and what wouldn’t.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=mrbeast-crohns"><img decoding="async" width="2048" height="234" class="wp-image-92827 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92826-1.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92826-1.png 2048w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92826-1-480x55.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92826-1-1024x117.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92826-1-1536x176.png 1536w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92826-1-1920x219.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></a></p>
<p>For example, we can look at the NOD2 gene.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/gene/NOD2/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=mrbeast-crohns">The <strong>NOD2 gene</strong></a> is one of the most well-researched genes associated with Crohn’s disease.</p>
<p>Variants in this gene can lead to an overactive immune response, causing chronic gut inflammation.</p>
<p>If someone like MrBeast has a high-risk variant of this gene, it means his immune system is likely misfiring and attacking his gut lining, which is a major driver of Crohn’s symptoms.</p>
<p>In this case, for those with NOD2 variants, increasing butyrate production is a game-changer.</p>
<p>Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid that helps regulate immune responses in the gut and strengthen the gut barrier.</p>
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<p>One of the best ways to naturally boost butyrate is by consuming resistant starch, which ferments in the gut and feeds beneficial bacteria.</p>
<p>With SelfDecode, you also get personalized diet, lifestyle and supplement recommendations based on your DNA, labs, and lifestyle.</p>
<p>This is what mine looks like (Note that if I did carry</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/how-mrbeast-can-fix-his-crohns-disease/">How MrBeast Can Fix His Crohn’s Disease</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
]]></description>
		
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		<title>L. Fermentum: The Glutathione-Boosting Probiotic for Immunity &#038; Inflammation Control</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/l-fermentum-glutathione-probiotic-for-immunity-inflammation/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/l-fermentum-glutathione-probiotic-for-immunity-inflammation/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:38:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Probiotics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[l. fermentum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[probiotics]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92815</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I&#8217;ve been experimenting with something interesting lately that I wanted to share with you – a specific probiotic strain called L. fermentum.</p>
<p>If you enjoyed my previous deep-dives on L. Rhamnosus and the GABA-A and TMAO genes, you might find this one fascinating too.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92815-_v37mms876i2y"></a>What Makes L. Fermentum Special?</h2>
<p>Unlike your average probiotic, L. fermentum has a unique superpower: it&#8217;s a glutathione-producing powerhouse.</p>
<p>If you&#8217;re not familiar with glutathione, it&#8217;s often called the body&#8217;s &#8220;master antioxidant&#8221; and plays a crucial role in immune function and detoxification.</p>
<p>This means it helps neutralize oxidative stress, detoxify harmful substances, and regulate immune function—all critical for reducing chronic inflammation and supporting long-term health.</p>
<p>This specific strain was originally isolated from human saliva in Estonia (random fact!) and each capsule typically contains about 4 billion CFUs, though I&#8217;ve been experimenting with much higher doses (more on that in a moment).</p>
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</p>
<h2><a id="post-92815-_930ibj3axhyq"></a>The Science Behind It</h2>
<p>What grabbed my attention about L. fermentum were the clinical trials showing its benefits:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Enhanced Immune Response</strong>: In one study, people who took this probiotic along with their flu vaccine showed increased immunoglobulin levels (IgA and IgM) and fewer influenza-like illnesses in the following five months. Your immune system essentially gets an upgrade!</li>
<li><strong>Reduced Inflammation</strong>: A placebo-controlled trial with ulcerative colitis patients found that L. fermentum significantly decreased inflammatory markers in the colon, including IL-6, TNF, and NF-Kappa Beta.</li>
</ul>
<p>Here&#8217;s where genetics gets fascinating. L. fermentum appears to directly influence two critical genes that control your immune response and inflammation levels.</p>
<p>How?</p>
<p>Glutathione is a key regulator of immune balance, helping to control inflammation by influencing IL-10 and TNF levels. Low glutathione has been linked to increased oxidative stress and chronic inflammation—so if your body struggles with IL-10 production or overproduces TNF, boosting glutathione with <em>L. fermentum</em> could be a game-changer.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92815-_t1y3hn2a0gwx"></a>IL-10, Cytokines and Inflammation</h2>
<p>This gene controls production of Interleukin-10, your body&#8217;s primary anti-inflammatory cytokine. It&#8217;s essentially your internal &#8220;fire extinguisher&#8221; for excessive inflammation.</p>
<p>Without enough IL-10, your immune system can become overactive, leading to chronic inflammation and increased susceptibility to inflammatory conditions.</p>
<p>I carry a genetic variant that predisposes me to typical IL-10 levels, meaning my body is likely to regulate inflammation effectively.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-fermentum"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92816 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92815-1.png" width="293" height="350" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92815-1.png 508w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/03/word-image-92815-1-402x480.png 402w" sizes="(max-width: 293px) 100vw, 293px" /></a></p>
<p>That’s where <em>Lactobacillus fermentum</em> comes in.</p>
<p>Research shows that this probiotic strain boosts IL-10 production, effectively supporting your body&#8217;s anti-inflammatory pathways.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p>By increasing IL-10, <em>L. fermentum</em> may help restore immune balance, mitigate excessive inflammation, and promote resilience against stressors that trigger immune overactivation.</p>
<p>For someone like me—who’s genetically wired for typical IL-10—I might not need <em>L. fermentum</em> as much as someone carrying the</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/l-fermentum-glutathione-probiotic-for-immunity-inflammation/">L. Fermentum: The Glutathione-Boosting Probiotic for Immunity &#038; Inflammation Control</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>4 Natural Alternatives to GLP-1</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/4-natural-alternatives-to-glp-1/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/4-natural-alternatives-to-glp-1/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 28 Feb 2025 19:15:16 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Supplements (other)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[resistant starch]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92802</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>You&#8217;ve probably heard all the buzz about GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.</p>
<p>These prescription medications are helping people drop serious weight, but what if you could get some of those same benefits naturally?</p>
<p>I&#8217;ve been experimenting with natural GLP-1 boosters for years now, and they&#8217;re part of how I maintain a six-pack while only hitting the gym about once a week (seriously).</p>
<p>In this email, I&#8217;m breaking down how I used my genes to find my top 5 natural GLP-1 agonists that can help control appetite and support weight management.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92802-_xh8i82ghaq8u"></a>It&#8217;s All in Your Genes</h2>
<p>Before diving into the supplements, let me share something crucial: <strong>your response to GLP-1 agonists is largely determined by your genetics.</strong></p>
<p>When I checked my <a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=glp1-alternatives">SelfDecode</a> results, I discovered I&#8217;m genetically predisposed to a WORSE response to GLP-1s.</p>
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<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=glp1-alternatives"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92807 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92802-1-2.png" width="339" height="378" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92802-1-2.png 562w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92802-1-2-431x480.png 431w" sizes="(max-width: 339px) 100vw, 339px" /></a></p>
<p>I also carry the negative variant of the TCF7L2 gene, which impacts GLP-1 levels.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92802-_1iedf3wlmdz5"></a><strong>The TCF7L2 Gene: Your GLP-1 Regulator</strong></h2>
<p>The TCF7L2 gene is a GLP-1 regulator and it’s important because it:</p>
<ul>
<li>Directly regulates the production and secretion of GLP-1</li>
<li>Influences how well GLP-1 can stimulate insulin release</li>
<li>It&#8217;s strongly linked to type 2 diabetes risk (the strongest genetic risk factor identified!)</li>
</ul>
<p>When you have certain variants of TCF7L2, your body produces less GLP-1 and responds more weakly to the GLP-1 you do produce. This creates a double whammy effect:</p>
<ol>
<li>Your &#8220;I&#8217;m full&#8221; signals are weaker</li>
<li>Your blood sugar regulation is compromised</li>
</ol>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=glp1-alternatives"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92808 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92802-2-2.png" width="302" height="347" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92802-2-2.png 546w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92802-2-2-417x480.png 417w" sizes="(max-width: 302px) 100vw, 302px" /></a></p>
<p>Through this I was able to find the best supplements that helped me <strong>naturally</strong> increase my GLP-1, which have been game-changers for my health and body composition.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92802-_wv0i27wmgjg3"></a>My Top 4 Natural GLP-1 Boosters (That Actually Work)</h2>
<p>Let me be clear—nothing natural works as powerfully as Ozempic.</p>
<p>But these natural alternatives work through multiple pathways instead of hammering just one mechanism, giving you broader health benefits.</p>
<h3><a id="post-92802-_nwfdu6kjzrgq"></a>#1: Resistant Starch (My #1 Pick)</h3>
<p><a href="https://amzn.to/4h3ULK4">Resistant starch</a> tops the list. A recent study in Nature Metabolism found people lost about 6 pounds in 8 weeks just by adding resistant starch!</p>
<p>I&#8217;ve been taking resistant starch for 13 years, and it&#8217;s a game-changer. It works by:</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<ul>
<li>Directly increasing GLP-1 secretion</li>
<li>Boosting beneficial gut bacteria</li>
<li>Creating butyrate (which further stimulates GLP-1)</li>
</ul>
<p>Make sure that you take Hi-Maize, Lectin Free Resistant Starch, anything else will give you bad side effects like brain fog.</p>
<p>I take about 40-45g daily of <a href="https://amzn.to/4h3ULK4">Jo&#8217;s Resistant Starch</a>.</p>
<p>The clinical studies used 90g, but honestly, anything over 40g and you&#8217;ll</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/4-natural-alternatives-to-glp-1/">4 Natural Alternatives to GLP-1</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>How much mold and toxins are you breathing in?</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/how-much-mold-and-toxins-are-you-breathing-in/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/how-much-mold-and-toxins-are-you-breathing-in/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:25:10 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[air purifier]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92794</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Most people assume the air in their home is clean.</p>
<p>The truth is, it <strong>definitely</strong> isn’t.</p>
<p>Indoor air can be up to <strong>5 times more polluted</strong> than outdoor air, according to the EPA.</p>
<p>Every time you cook, clean, or even just sit in your home, you’re surrounded by invisible pollutants—mold spores, dust, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and microscopic particles that make their way into your lungs and bloodstream.</p>
<p>If you live in a city or near traffic, it’s even worse. And your DNA can amplify it even further.</p>
<p>So I started looking at air filtration systems, analyzing what makes a purifier effective, which contaminants are the real problem, and why filtering air properly is more important than most people realize.</p>
<p>In this email, I’ll walk you through why I made these choices, how air quality directly impacts your health, and what genes you should look for to determine your sensitivity to air pollution.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</p>
<h2><a id="post-92794-_btnpzn4kyqk3"></a>Why I Care About Air Purification</h2>
<p>The reason I care about air quality is simple: <strong>it affects everything. </strong></p>
<p>Your energy levels, inflammation, sleep, and cognitive function all depend on the air you breathe.</p>
<p>These aren’t just minor annoyances.</p>
<p>Long-term exposure can cause chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which impact overall health.</p>
<p>But here’s what makes it even more interesting—your genetics <strong>play a massive role</strong> in how sensitive you are to air pollution.</p>
<p>Obviously, clean breathable air is the main goal, no matter what genes you carry.</p>
<p>But some people can tolerate a higher toxic load without noticing much, while others experience increased inflammation, fatigue, and cognitive decline from the same exposure.</p>
<p>Certain genes, like <strong>the STAT4 gene</strong>, are linked to immune system responses and inflammation, making some people more prone to negative effects from airborne pollutants.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92794-_qe7c2m8251zw"></a>STAT4, Cytokines, and Air Pollution</h2>
<p>The <a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/gene/STAT4/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=air-purifier">STAT4 gene</a> plays a key role in immune system regulation and inflammatory responses.</p>
<p>It is heavily involved in cytokine signaling, meaning it affects how your body reacts to environmental stressors—including airborne toxins, mold, and pollutants.</p>
<p>A negative STAT4 variant can make you more susceptible to inflammation triggered by air pollution, leading to higher levels of oxidative stress and immune activation.</p>
<p>This means that the same exposure to mold, VOCs, or heavy metals that someone else might tolerate could cause more inflammation and immune overreaction in you.</p>
<p>For those with a STAT4 risk variant, exposure to polluted air can contribute to symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, respiratory issues, and even autoimmune flare-ups.</p>
<p>That’s why air purifiers aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re a necessity.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p>If your body struggles to detoxify airborne pollutants efficiently, having the right air</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/how-much-mold-and-toxins-are-you-breathing-in/">How much mold and toxins are you breathing in?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>L. Rhamnosus, Mood, and Heart Health</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/l-rhamnosus-mood-and-heart-health/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/l-rhamnosus-mood-and-heart-health/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 Feb 2025 13:09:56 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Probiotics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GABA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[heart health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[probiotics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tmao]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92782</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Most people take one probiotic capsule a day and call it a day.</p>
<p>I take 25.</p>
<p>A single capsule of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (L. Rhamnosus GG) usually contains 10-15 billion CFU—but for my latest megadosing experiment, I took 375 billion CFU in one day to test its effects on cardiovascular health and brain function.</p>
<p>I do these experiments because standard doses don’t always give clear effects—but when you take 20-30x the normal amount, you quickly find out what a supplement can really do.</p>
<p>I chose L. Rhamnosus because it showed up in my SelfDecode recommendations, meaning my genes indicate that this probiotic would be particularly beneficial for me.</p>
<p>On top of that, it’s one of the most well-researched probiotic strains.</p>
<p>Here’s what I discovered:</p>
<ul>
<li>It lowered glutamate levels, which helped me feel calmer and more mentally clear.</li>
<li>It helps reduce TMAO, a metabolite linked to cardiovascular risk.</li>
</ul>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
<p>In this email, I want to highlight the science behind L. Rhamnosus, why it had a positive impact on my health, and which genes you should check to find out if this probiotic is right for you.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92782-_69e68n64h8wy"></a>What is L. Rhamnosus?</h2>
<p>L. Rhamnosus is one of the most well-studied probiotic strains, and it’s been on my radar for a while.</p>
<p>There are a bunch of different strains of L. Rhamnosus, but the one I’ve been experimenting with is L. Rhamnosus GG—which is by far the most researched. It’s naturally found in the human gut, unlike some strains that come from dairy sources.</p>
<p>What makes it interesting is how wide-ranging its benefits are.</p>
<p>On <a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-rhamnosus">SelfDecode</a>, It’s ranked high up on my personalized recommendations list due to its impact on these health topics:</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-rhamnosus"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92783 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-1.png" width="835" height="405" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-1.png 1998w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-1-480x233.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-1-1024x497.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-1-1536x746.png 1536w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-1-1920x932.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 835px) 100vw, 835px" /></a></p>
<p>So, how did it tackle my low mood?</p>
<h2><a id="post-92782-_twkhvu6vla13"></a>GABA-A, Glutamate &#38; L. Rhamnosus</h2>
<p>One of the most shocking things I noticed when megadosing L. Rhamnosus GG was just how much it affected my brain and mood.</p>
<p>Glutamate is the brain’s excitatory neurotransmitter—too much of it, and you feel wired, anxious, and overstimulated.</p>
<p>GABA is the opposite, keeping you calm, collected, and stress-resistant.</p>
<p>L. Rhamnosus affects <strong>both</strong> glutamate and GABA in a way that makes it one of the most interesting probiotics for mood.</p>
<p>How?</p>
<p>First, it increases GABA, by stimulating GABA production and influencing GABA receptors in the brain.</p>
<p>More GABA means a greater sense of calm, better stress resilience, and improved mood stability.</p>
<p>And my genes predispose me to lower GABA activity, which is why I felt a massive impact when I took L. Rhamnosus.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=l-rhamnosus"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92784 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-2.png" width="297" height="339" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-2.png 524w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92782-2-421x480.png 421w" sizes="(max-width: 297px) 100vw, 297px" /></a></p>
<p>Second, it lowers glutamate.</p>
<p>L. Rhamnosus helps shift the</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/l-rhamnosus-mood-and-heart-health/">L. Rhamnosus, Mood, and Heart Health</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>The best probiotic for gut, allergies, and immunity</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/b-longum-probiotic-for-gut-allergies-immunity/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/b-longum-probiotic-for-gut-allergies-immunity/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:48:32 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Gut]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gut health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[probiotics]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92771</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>What if I told you that one tiny probiotic strain could impact not only your bloating and gut health but also your <strong>immune system, brain function, and even mood</strong>?</p>
<p>I’ve been deep in the probiotic rabbit hole lately &#8211; testing different strains, megadosing, tracking my body’s responses, and digging through my SelfDecode reports to see what my genetics say about my gut health.</p>
<p>I’ve gone through the research, experimented on myself, and narrowed it down to my top three probiotics—and this one is number one.</p>
<p>Out of everything I’ve tested, <strong>Bifidobacterium longum</strong> has been the most reliable for improving digestion, reducing bloating, and keeping my gut in check.</p>
<p>But what really blew me away was its impact on immunity and food allergies.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92771-_qninhcaetdwk"></a>What is B. Longum?</h2>
<p>Bifidobacterium longum is a type of probiotic—a beneficial bacteria that naturally lives in your gut.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
<p>Probiotics like <em>B. longum</em> play an essential role in your body, helping to break down food, regulate the immune system, and maintain a balanced gut microbiome.</p>
<p>While your gut is home to <strong>trillions</strong> of bacteria, not all of them are beneficial.</p>
<p>Some can lead to inflammation, digestive issues, and even mental health imbalances if they overgrow or if the good bacteria are outnumbered.</p>
<p>That’s where probiotics like <em>B. longum</em> come in.</p>
<p>This strain has been shown to <strong>support digestion, reduce bloating, strengthen the gut barrier, and even influence brain function by interacting with neurotransmitters like serotonin</strong>.</p>
<p>And depending on your genetics, you may need more support in these areas—especially if your body struggles with breaking down certain fibers, regulating inflammation, or producing enough beneficial gut bacteria on its own.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92771-_bn64uva3gkv1"></a>FUT2, Immunity, and B. Longum Colonization</h2>
<p>The FUT2 gene plays a crucial role in determining whether you&#8217;re a secretor or non-secretor—meaning whether your body expresses specific sugars in bodily fluids like saliva, mucus, and the gut lining.</p>
<p>These sugars serve as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria, including Bifidobacterium longum.</p>
<p>Secretors provide an environment that helps <em>B. longum</em> thrive, while non-secretors have a harder time colonizing and maintaining high levels of this beneficial probiotic.</p>
<p>Your FUT2 gene variant determines which one you are, with the ‘AA’ genotype of the rs601338 SNP being non-secretor.</p>
<p>SelfDecode analyzed thousands of my genes &#8211; including the FUT2 gene &#8211; and put me at high risk for the flu, due to a weaker immune system.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=b-longum"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92772 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92771-1.png" width="327" height="401" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92771-1.png 502w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92771-1-391x480.png 391w" sizes="(max-width: 327px) 100vw, 327px" /></a></p>
<p>B. Longum was at the top of my recommendations list, as it helps strengthen the gut barrier, increase microbial diversity, and decrease susceptibility to infections.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=b-longum"><strong>&#62;&#62; CHECK YOUR FUT2 GENE</strong></a></p>
<h2><a id="post-92771-_93a3tbofucp7"></a>Food Allergies</h2>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/b-longum-probiotic-for-gut-allergies-immunity/">The best probiotic for gut, allergies, and immunity</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>3 Key Heart Genes: CYP1A2, APOA5 &#038; PEMT</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/3-key-heart-genes-cyp1a2-apoa5-pemt-2/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/3-key-heart-genes-cyp1a2-apoa5-pemt-2/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Feb 2025 15:12:25 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Heart Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[heart health]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92760</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Valentine’s Day is just around the corner.</p>
<p>Love quotes are all over socials and the heart emoji is the most used emoji of the week.</p>
<p>Since everyone’s heart is “skipping a beat” this week, I thought today might be a good day to talk about heart health, and how you can show your cardiovascular system some love this Valentine’s Day.</p>
<p>Here are 3 genes that impact your heart health, coupled (pun intended) with recommendations on what to do if you have the negative variants of these genes.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</p>
<h2><a id="post-92760-_tcq8ix53y7zf"></a>Caffeine and Your Heart</h2>
<p>Caffeine boosts mood and energy levels, increases focus, and improves athletic performance.</p>
<p>But if you carry the negative variant of the CYP1A2 gene, caffeine can increase your blood pressure and affect your heart health.</p>
<p>CYP1A2 is an important detox enzyme that breaks down toxic chemicals, drugs, hormones, and other products of metabolism in order to eliminate them from your body.</p>
<p>It’s the <strong>main caffeine-metabolizing enzyme.</strong></p>
<p>Carrying the negative variant decreases your ability to break down caffeine (and other toxins) making you jittery, nervous, and susceptible to increased blood pressure.</p>
<p>To increase CYP1A2 activity, one of the top recommendations is to eat cruciferous vegetables!</p>
<p>We also have <a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/article/caffeine-heart-disease-cyp1a2/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=3-genes-heart-health">a list of foods and substances that <strong>decrease</strong> your CYP1A2 activity</a> in the personalized blog!</p>
<h2><a id="post-92760-_nufx72jyv5yh"></a>APOA5 and HDL Cholesterol</h2>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p>The APOA5 gene encodes a protein called apolipoprotein A5, which is part of HDL cholesterol, also known as the “good cholesterol.”</p>
<p>HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the blood, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.</p>
<p>It also has a role in your metabolism, as it’s a fat-binding protein that reduces blood triglycerides, packages them into HDL cholesterol, and eventually regulates their storage as fat tissue.</p>
<p>The negative variant decreases APOA5 expression, which can increase triglycerides in your blood and reduce HDL cholesterol, making you more susceptible for heart issues.</p>
<p>In this case, butyrate &#8211; which is produced from resistant starch by beneficial bacteria in the gut &#8211; can increase APOA5 expression and improve your metabolic health.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92760-_vr09vkei70yg"></a>PEMT, Methylation, and Heart Health</h2>
<p>The PEMT gene is all about choline metabolism &#8211; a vital nutrient that your body needs to maintain heart health and function optimally</p>
<p>It helps in the metabolism of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to cardiovascular risk.</p>
<p>High levels of homocysteine can be harmful to your arteries and increase the risk of heart-related issues.</p>
<p>If you carry negative variants of the PEMT gene, your body might not be as efficient at metabolizing choline. This could lead to lower levels of choline, potentially resulting in elevated homocysteine levels—a risk factor for heart problems.</p>
<p>It may seem obvious &#8211;<strong> and</strong></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/3-key-heart-genes-cyp1a2-apoa5-pemt-2/">3 Key Heart Genes: CYP1A2, APOA5 &#038; PEMT</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>How to use your DNA to build healthy relationships</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/how-to-use-your-dna-to-build-healthy-relationships/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/how-to-use-your-dna-to-build-healthy-relationships/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 05 Feb 2025 18:19:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Mental Health]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92750</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Would you say you’re naturally good at reading people?</strong></p>
<p>Some people just seem to <em>get</em> others.</p>
<p>They pick up on emotions, sense when something’s off, and know exactly how to respond.</p>
<p>They build strong relationships effortlessly, whether in friendships, family, or even professional settings.</p>
<p>For a long time, I thought empathy and social connection was purely a learned skill—something you develop through experience, active listening, and emotional intelligence.</p>
<p>And while those things certainly help, science suggests there’s something deeper at play.</p>
<p>Your ability to connect with others on a profound level might actually be influenced by your DNA.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</p>
<p>I usually joke that I won the genetic lottery of bad genes, but I can (finally) say that, for once, my genes actually help me with this.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92750-_9ysiptn3oij2"></a>Empathy, Oxytocin and the OXTR Gene</h2>
<p>Oxytocin, sometimes called the love hormone, is vital for social bonding and empathy.</p>
<p>The more oxytocin we have and the more active our oxytocin receptors are, the more likely we are to feel for others and to respond with altruism and generosity.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/gene/OXTR/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=use-dna-to-build-relationships">OXTR gene</a> provides instructions for making receptors that oxytocin latches onto.</p>
<p>When oxytocin latches onto these receptors, it signals our brain to amplify feelings of trust, empathy, and social bonding. It&#8217;s like flipping a switch that lights up our emotional world, enabling us to connect with others on a profound level.</p>
<p>There are a few SNPs of the OXTR gene that decrease the number of oxytocin receptors you have available, and also how well they function &#8211; leading you to become less empathetic.</p>
<p>I’m generally known to be an empathetic person, and my genes reflect that.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=use-dna-to-build-relationships"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92751 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92750-1.png" width="433" height="513" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92750-1.png 518w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/02/word-image-92750-1-405x480.png 405w" sizes="(max-width: 433px) 100vw, 433px" /></a></p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
</p>
<p>If you have low oxytocin levels, it’s best to look at the recommendations to increase oxytocin so that you can develop empathy that will lead to healthier personal and professional relationships.</p>
<p>The recommendations for you might include probiotics or orange blossom aromatherapy, but there are a total of 30+ recommendations that can help increase oxytocin levels, all prioritized in the SelfDecode report.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92750-_yyxm63b657q1"></a>Dopamine, Social Reward, and the DRD2 Gene</h2>
<p>While oxytocin plays a big role in trust and empathy, dopamine &#8211; the neurotransmitter often associated with motivation and pleasure &#8211; is also a key player in social bonding.</p>
<p>When we connect with others, share a laugh, or feel accepted, dopamine surges in our brain, reinforcing the desire to seek out more social connections.</p>
<p>One gene that influences this process is <strong>DRD2</strong>, which codes for dopamine receptors in the brain.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/gene/DRD2/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=use-dna-to-build-relationships"><strong>DRD2 gene</strong></a> affects how efficiently your brain processes dopamine, particularly in response to rewarding experiences, including social interactions.</p>
<p>This means</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/how-to-use-your-dna-to-build-healthy-relationships/">How to use your DNA to build healthy relationships</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>Why most methylation reports fail</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/why-most-methylation-reports-fail/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/why-most-methylation-reports-fail/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jan 2025 13:51:33 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Genetics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[methylation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[methylation report]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92742</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I’ve seen it time and time again—methylation reports that overpromise and underdeliver.</p>
<p>Promises to discover your body’s deficiencies, build you a roadmap, and take back control of your health by only looking at a couple of genes.</p>
<p>Their description of what happens if you’re an undermethylator is… well it’s actually pretty accurate.</p>
<p>Being an undermethylator can lead to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Anxiety and depression</li>
<li>Poor sleep</li>
<li>Gut issues</li>
<li>Brain fog</li>
<li>Thyroid problems</li>
<li>High blood pressure</li>
<li>And so much more.</li>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</ul>
<p>They do focus on the MTHFR gene, one of the more popular genes in the genetic space &#8211; claiming that 44% of the world population has the genetic variant that makes you an undermethylator.</p>
<p>This is all true, and it’s great that more people are being educated on the impact methylation has on your health and on the importance of genetics.</p>
<p>But this is where the issues come up, because they’re putting ALL the weight on one gene and falsely promising that this is going to solve all your health problems.</p>
<p>It’s so much more than that.</p>
<p>There are many more genes that play a role in methylation, and important lab markers that you can measure to see a complete picture of your methylation pathway.</p>
<p>It’s frustrating because everything that they’re promising can happen, but it likely won’t through them, so then people write off genetics as “bs”.</p>
<p>But the truth is, you can start feeling the way you want to feel.</p>
<p>Your symptoms don’t have to define who you are.</p>
<p>You can uncover and address your body’s deficiencies, finally taking control of your health.</p>
<p>But you need the <strong>right</strong> DNA report to do that.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p>That’s why we took matters into our own hands and created <strong>the <a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=why-most-methylation-reports-fail">100x Methylation Report</a></strong>!</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=why-most-methylation-reports-fail"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92743 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92742-1.png" width="503" height="629" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92742-1.png 1080w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92742-1-384x480.png 384w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92742-1-819x1024.png 819w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92742-1-864x1080.png 864w" sizes="(max-width: 503px) 100vw, 503px" /></a></p>
<p>This report analyzes over 30+ genes &#8211; including MTHFR and COMT &#8211; AND 15+ lab markers related to methylation to give you an <em>accurate, legitimate </em>picture of your health.</p>
<p>You’ll receive personalized recommendations &#8211; prioritized from most effective to least effective based on your unique genes and labs &#8211; helping you understand your methylation pathways to create a plan that boosts energy, sharpens focus, and enhances your overall health.</p>
<p>You can view a sample 100x Methylation Report <a href="https://sample-report-folder.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/Sample+Biohacker+Report_Methylation_SelfDecode.pdf">here</a>.</p>
<p>If you’re ready to change your life, sign up to SelfDecode and get your own 100x Methylation Report today.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=why-most-methylation-reports-fail"><strong>&#62;&#62; GET YOUR 100X METHYLATION REPORT</strong></a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/why-most-methylation-reports-fail/">Why most methylation reports fail</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>Are all DNA Methylation Reports the same?</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/are-all-dna-methylation-reports-the-same/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/are-all-dna-methylation-reports-the-same/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Jan 2025 13:11:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Genetics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[10x health]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92730</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I just launched a series on The Joe Cohen Show called DNA Deceptions, where I uncover some of the lies you’re being told by “DNA companies,” aka a marketing company with massive budgets.</p>
<p>Most companies are currently focusing on one hot topic &#8211; <strong>methylation.</strong></p>
<p>Why?</p>
<p>Well, because it’s an extremely popular topic in the health world, especially the MTHFR gene, which has had a huge spotlight on it in recent years.</p>
<p>Methylation impacts your health in <strong>a lot</strong> of ways &#8211; from detoxification to energy production &#8211; so discovering how your genetics impact your pathway is key to optimizing your health.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
<p>Although your MTHFR plays a huge role in methylation, you need to look at a lot more genes to determine whether you’re an over or under methylator.</p>
<p>But to do that, you need a create a more sophisticated software, which means more money, more time, and a bigger science and dev team.</p>
<p>But that eats into profits, so companies like 10x Health ride the popularity wave and try to make a basic product that they can then overprice and sell to you.</p>
<p>For 10x specifically, you’ll pay $600 to get their Methylation Report, which is a PDF that looks at only <strong>5 SNPs</strong> and makes huge promises about how you can transform your health.</p>
<p>In comparison, SelfDecode prices start at $318, and you get a Methylation Report that looks at 30 genetic variants, plus 1,000 other DNA reports that give you genetic risks and recommendations for health issues like inflammation, anxiety, brain fog, and more, plus a lab analysis tool where you can upload your labs and get recommendations to get them to the optimal range, plus an AI health coach that’s available 24/7, plus… you get my point. $600 for 5 SNPs is ridiculous.</p>
<p>This is what you see in the beginning of their report:</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=10x-health-podcast"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92731 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-1.png" width="516" height="547" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-1.png 1696w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-1-453x480.png 453w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-1-966x1024.png 966w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-1-1449x1536.png 1449w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-1-1019x1080.png 1019w" sizes="(max-width: 516px) 100vw, 516px" /></a></p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
</p>
<p>First, they don’t focus on the full methylation cycle, including the folate cycle, methionine cycle, and transsulfuration cycle.</p>
<p>They also don&#8217;t take labs into account.</p>
<p>And again, they’re only looking at <strong>5 SNPs!</strong></p>
<p>The studies that they use seem legit, as they will cite association studies on PubMed.</p>
<p>But the problem is these studies usually can&#8217;t be replicated. If they are replicated, they are often not replicated across different ethnicities and ancestries.</p>
<p>If it is replicated and across ancestries, then it usually contributes less than 1% to the total impact of genetics as a whole. So you are only getting a tiny fraction of the genetic knowledge.</p>
<p>If you want to look at your full methylation pathway, you can find it in your SelfDecode Methylation Report. Here’s what mine looks like:</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=10x-health-podcast"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92732 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-2.png" width="516" height="543" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-2.png 996w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-2-456x480.png 456w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92730-2-973x1024.png 973w" sizes="(max-width: 516px) 100vw, 516px" /></a></p>
<p>We’re looking at more</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/are-all-dna-methylation-reports-the-same/">Are all DNA Methylation Reports the same?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>Is mold causing your health problems?</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/is-mold-causing-your-health-problems/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/is-mold-causing-your-health-problems/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:48:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Mold]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92716</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Mold is death.</p>
<p>Mold is the silent killer.</p>
<p>It’s the reason you wake up depressed everyday.</p>
<p>The reason you’re inflamed.</p>
<p>The cause of your brain fog.</p>
<p>If you&#8217;re just stepping into the health world, a couple of Google searches will quickly convince you these claims are absolute—because they&#8217;re the ones you&#8217;ll see the most.</p>
<p>And while I do believe that mold is a big culprit in a lot of health issues, I think too many people are quick to point the finger at mold without considering other potential issues that may be causing your health problems.</p>
<p>In this email, I want to dive deeper and talk about what mold really is, how it impacts your body, the genes that influence your ability to detoxify “bad mold,” and the actionable steps you can take to counteract its negative effects.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92716-_b6zbrtlcopwr"></a>Mold &#38; Mycotoxins</h2>
<p>Mold is a type of fungi, and we’re exposed to it every single day.</p>
<p>Fungi like mold play an essential role in nature, breaking down organic material and recycling nutrients back into the environment.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
<p>While most molds are harmless, there are some that produce microscopic toxins known as <strong>mycotoxins</strong> that can be harmful to your health.</p>
<p>These are the toxic chemicals produced by certain types of mold as a defense mechanism and can contaminate the air, surfaces, and food.</p>
<p>And when they enter your body, they can potentially cause a whole host of health issues &#8211; like chronic fatigue, inflammation, brain fog, or respiratory problems &#8211; <strong>especially</strong> if you carry some genes that aren’t good at detoxifying.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92716-_yyftx1a96yvv"></a>CYP1A2 &#38; Phase 1 Detox</h2>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/gene/CYP1A2/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=is-mold-causing-your-health-problems">CYP1A2</a> is an important enzyme in your liver that helps break down substances your body needs to process, like hormones, caffeine, medications, and environmental toxins, <strong>including aflatoxins &#8211; a harmful mycotoxin.</strong></p>
<p>It’s part of your body’s detox system, specifically what we call Phase I, where it helps modify toxins so they can be further processed and eliminated.</p>
<p>How well CYP1A2 works can vary a lot between people, depending on their genetic variant.</p>
<p>I carry the “AA” genotype for the CYP1A2 gene, which means my body is naturally better at detoxifying aflatoxins (or “mold”).</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=is-mold-causing-your-health-problems"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92717 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92716-1.png" width="302" height="344" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92716-1.png 546w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92716-1-421x480.png 421w" sizes="(max-width: 302px) 100vw, 302px" /></a></p>
<p>This gives me an advantage, but some genetic variants can make this detox process slower, leaving toxins to build up and cause more damage.</p>
<p>Understanding your CYP1A2 genotype is a key step toward knowing how well your body handles mold and how to support it <strong>if needed</strong>.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92716-_w3lwxrx8jpgn"></a>UGT &#38; Glucuronidation</h2>
<p>While CYP1A2 is critical for Phase I detoxification, your body also relies on Phase II detox pathways like <strong>glucuronidation</strong> to finish the job.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/is-mold-causing-your-health-problems/">Is mold causing your health problems?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>Unlock Your Health Goals in 2025</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/unlock-your-health-goals-in-2025/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:07:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Genetics]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92703</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>No one wants to be a part of the 91% of people that abandon their New Year&#8217;s resolutions.</strong></p>
<p>But why do people fail?</p>
<p>There are 2 main reasons.</p>
<p>First, their goals are vague and they don’t have a personalized plan.</p>
<p>Second, they get their health insights from bad sources.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92703-_hn95k1rn7weu"></a>Got Health Goals?</h2>
<p>Let’s say you’ve got goals to lose weight and eat healthier (like everyone around this time of year).</p>
<p>Ok, so you’re eating less sugar, but now what?</p>
<p><strong>You have to look at your DNA.</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=health-goals-2025">SelfDecode</a> analyzes over 200 million genetic variants to help you discover game changing health insights, like finding out what is the best diet for your body.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
<p>This is more than any other company in the world.</p>
<p>If I take a look at my DNA, this is what it looks like:</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=health-goals-2025"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92704 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-1.png" width="518" height="362" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-1.png 998w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-1-480x336.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 518px) 100vw, 518px" /></a></p>
<p>Using this, SelfDecode suggests that I follow a Mediterranean diet, and then gives me a list of recipes that I can add to my meal plan that would work for <strong>my unique body.</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=health-goals-2025"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92705 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-2.png" width="588" height="507" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-2.png 1398w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-2-480x414.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-2-1024x883.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-2-1252x1080.png 1252w" sizes="(max-width: 588px) 100vw, 588px" /></a></p>
<p>If you wanted to dive into the details, you can see what genetic variants you carry for genes like the FTO gene &#8211; a “master switch” that controls a variety of other weight-associated genes and pathways in our bodies.</p>
<p>Or the MC4R gene, which plays a role in appetite regulation and energy expenditure.</p>
<p>But with this, you’re able to easily answer the question of “What would a healthy diet look like for MY body?” and start building the roadmap to reach your health goal.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92703-_y1lrjsmd8kct"></a>Is All Health Advice Legitimate?</h2>
<p>Many people want to decrease their anxiety and depression or increase their mental clarity, and the same set of rules applies here.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
</p>
<p>There are hundreds of supplements that claim to help with anxiety, but how do you know which one works for you?</p>
<p>As I’ve mentioned in past emails, 5-HTP was a game changer for my anxiety.</p>
<p>But some of my close friends, after hearing my story and trying it out, were disappointed to find that it didn’t do the same for them.</p>
<p>And that’s because I carry the negative variant of the TPH2 gene, which encodes an enzyme that is involved in the synthesis of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation, among other things.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=health-goals-2025"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92706 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-3.png" width="643" height="504" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-3.png 1378w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-3-480x376.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2025/01/word-image-92703-3-1024x803.png 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 643px) 100vw, 643px" /></a></p>
<p>My variant wasn’t properly encoding this enzyme, which left me with very low serotonin &#8211; something that 5-HTP helps a lot with!</p>
<p>Sometimes, higher glutamate (from lower GAD1) can also increase anxiety.</p>
<p>Our mood report looks at <strong>84,205</strong> genetic variants to</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/unlock-your-health-goals-in-2025/">Unlock Your Health Goals in 2025</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>The disturbing truth about genetics companies</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/the-disturbing-truth-about-genetics-companies/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/the-disturbing-truth-about-genetics-companies/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Dec 2024 17:03:41 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Genetics]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92688</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Last week, I attended the A4M Longevity Conference, where thousands of health practitioners gather to explore cutting-edge medical innovations.</p>
<p>At the SelfDecode booth, we showcased our revolutionary genetic technology, and many attendees that I spoke to already knew the strength that genetics has in optimizing your health.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, there was one issue.</p>
<p><strong>Nobody realized just how many scammers and gimmicks dominate the genetic testing industry.</strong></p>
<p>I kept hearing the same question: “What makes you different from this company?” And each company they mentioned was, for lack of a better word, a complete gimmick.</p>
<p>If you aren’t aware of how your genes are being analyzed, then you might fall into this trap as well.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t blame you &#8211; they put millions of dollars into marketing and maybe a few thousand into science.</p>
<p>So before you spend your hard-earned money on a genetic test, here’s what you need to know to avoid wasting it.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92688-_qhxdkaddd8xc"></a>Are they only looking at a few SNPs?</h2>
<p>Most genetic companies rely on outdated, oversimplified methods to give you &#8220;risk scores&#8221; and so-called “personalized” recommendations.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
<p>When I started getting into this in 2015, I was guilty of this as well. The science and tech just wasn&#8217;t advanced enough and we were mainly looking at a list of single variants (SNPs).</p>
<p>I hired multiple PhDs in genetics from reputable universities, and they were also working on single variants.</p>
<p>However, in 2019, after speaking with some top scientists at the top universities, I realized that the science has progressed A LOT in genetics and that looking at a few variants couldn&#8217;t really predict accurately.</p>
<p>The truth is, for any given condition or trait, there are many thousands or millions of variants usually involved (with a few exceptions).</p>
<p>There are some genes that do play significant roles in certain health issues, like the MTHFR, BRCA, and ApoE gene.</p>
<p>But, overall, you can&#8217;t predict risks or recommendations from a handful of variants.</p>
<p>To truly understand genetic risk and deliver meaningful insights, you need to analyze these thousands or millions of variants.</p>
<p>For example, our Alzheimer’s Report looks at the ApoE gene, plus about a million other genes.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=the-disturbing-truth-about-genetics-companies"><img decoding="async" width="2048" height="436" class="wp-image-92689" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/12/word-image-92688-1.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/12/word-image-92688-1.png 2048w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/12/word-image-92688-1-480x102.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/12/word-image-92688-1-1024x218.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/12/word-image-92688-1-1536x327.png 1536w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/12/word-image-92688-1-1920x409.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></a></p>
<p>And that’s just the start.</p>
<p>These polygenic risk score models need to be rigorously validated and published, which is something we’ve done at SelfDecode.</p>
<p>We have published 6 papers.</p>
<p>Any company can technically say that they looked at a lot of variants and that they have the best algorithm.</p>
<p>But unless you prove it, it&#8217;s not worth much.</p>
<p>When we benchmarked our results to the leading algorithms, we found that we outperformed them.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, none of the top 5 were in the consumer industry.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/the-disturbing-truth-about-genetics-companies/">The disturbing truth about genetics companies</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>Genes that Help You Avoid Hangovers</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/genes-that-help-you-avoid-hangovers/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:31:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Detox]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92659</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Whether you&#8217;re celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, the New Year or another holiday, chances are you&#8217;re probably going to experience disruptions to your regimen.</p>
<p>In my last post, <a href="https://selfhack.com/blog/3-tips-to-handle-holiday-stress-based-on-your-genes/">I wrote about how to deal with the stresses that come with the holidays</a>.</p>
<p>Today, we’ll cover something equally important &#8211; <strong>how to avoid hangovers! </strong></p>
<p>You might be traveling, staying up later, attending office or family parties, and maybe you&#8217;re eating or drinking things that you shouldn&#8217;t!</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</p>
<p>We’ll get to the foods you should look out for in another post, but today, let’s focus on the drinking.</p>
<p>I know for a fact that my body does NOT process alcohol well. I get horrible hangovers, because I’m a poor methylator.</p>
<p>You see, methylation is a biochemical process that helps to switch your biological processes on and off &#8211; which is an important factor in many biological functions &#8211; including detoxification.</p>
<p>It makes sense that my body doesn’t detox well, because the MTHFR gene plays a key role in methylation and I have significantly reduced MTHFR gene function. Fortunately, there are things I can do to help support the methylation process, like taking a vitamin B complex supplement&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=genes-avoid-hangovers"><img decoding="async" width="1506" height="410" class="wp-image-92661" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/11/word-image-92659-2.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/11/word-image-92659-2.png 1506w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/11/word-image-92659-2-480x131.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/11/word-image-92659-2-1024x279.png 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 1506px) 100vw, 1506px" /></a></p>
<h2><strong>Is Your Body Able To Detox Well?</strong></h2>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p>No matter what your MTHFR genotype is, after consuming your gingerbread eggnog, cranberry old fashioned, or copious amounts of red wine, your body is going to need to detox!</p>
<p>The <a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/article/detox-nfe2l2/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=genes-avoid-hangovers">NFE2L2 gene</a> can influence how well you are able to process your alcohol. Knowing your genotype for this gene will give you a sort of ‘detox score’.</p>
<p>Alcohol causes oxidative stress and inflammation in our body. If you have the variations of the NFE2L2 gene like I do, your liver isn’t as protected as it should be.</p>
<p>But more importantly, oxidative stress can run rampant after drinking too much causing stomach issues and general inflammation that can lead you to feeling lousy after that holiday party!</p>
<p>To combat that holiday hangover, I look at my personalized recommendations to boost NFE2L2, detoxification, and MTHFR activity which are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Eating veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels</li>
<li>Taking Vitamin D, E and B</li>
<li>Supplementing melatonin</li>
</ul>
<p>I don’t usually drink because it affects me so badly, but when I do, I also make sure to pace myself and hydrate. I like to use a 1-1 ratio (1 drink to 1 water).</p>
<p>If you’re struggling with a holiday hangover, it may benefit you to <a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=genes-avoid-hangovers">take a look at your genes</a> to discover how your body handles detoxing and methylation! You might find that there are some changes you could make to help your body process toxins more efficiently.</p>
<p>And of course, SelfDecode also gives you</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/genes-that-help-you-avoid-hangovers/">Genes that Help You Avoid Hangovers</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>3 tips to handle holiday stress based on your genes</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/3-tips-to-handle-holiday-stress-based-on-your-genes/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/3-tips-to-handle-holiday-stress-based-on-your-genes/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Nov 2024 19:28:05 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Stress Reduction]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92647</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>As the holiday season approaches, it brings with it festive celebrations and cherished moments.</p>
<p>But let’s be honest, it can also bring a fair share of stress.</p>
<p>Your schedule is jam-packed, and you’ve got a bunch of family gatherings on the horizon. Who knows how <em>those</em> will turn out.</p>
<p>The pressures of the season can sometimes overshadow the joy.</p>
<p>So, what’s the solution?</p>
<p>Solution #1 is to do nothing.</p>
<p>Try to deal with it, reach your breaking point sometime during your holiday &#8211; most likely at your family gathering &#8211; and perhaps throw a turkey leg at an annoying uncle.</p>
<p>While turkey throwing does sound cathartic, it’s not much of a solution.</p>
<p>Solution #2 is to prepare your body and mind <em>before</em> the holiday stress kicks in, so you can roll with it instead of letting it roll over you.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</p>
<p>How much stress someone can handle, and how they deal with that stress, differs from person to person.</p>
<p>It actually has a lot to do with your genes.</p>
<p>Your genetic makeup can offer insights into your stress response, giving you the tools to manage it more effectively.</p>
<p>Today, I’m going to cover three genes that play a big role in your stress response, and how you can use them to help you breeze through the season.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92647-_ptkodyg70hmz"></a>NR3C1 and Cortisol</h2>
<p>The NR3C1 gene is responsible for increasing your cortisol levels in response to stress.</p>
<p>If you carry the negative variant, it means that your cortisol levels increase just <em>a bit</em> too much.</p>
<p>On top of that, the NR3C1 gene also turns on other genes that are part of the stress response.</p>
<p>So anytime you’re confronted with a stressful situation, you’ve got a stress-inducing gene party that’s making your body respond in a way that seems unmanageable.</p>
<p>Understanding your NR3C1 gene could be the key to keeping your stress response in check when holiday chaos comes calling.</p>
<p>If you do carry this variant, ashwagandha might work for you.</p>
<p>It helps regulate cortisol by supporting adrenal health and can aid in moderating your body’s reaction to stress.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92647-_cm5nwjpr4mm3"></a>GRM8 and Glutamate</h2>
<p>The GRM8 gene was a game changer when I first read about it years ago.</p>
<p>The GRM8 gene is involved in regulating glutamate, which is like the “on” switch for brain activity.</p>
<p>Glutamate kicks into gear whenever you need focus, energy, or a quick response.</p>
<p>But, if you have a certain variant of the GRM8 gene, it can mean your brain’s “on” switch is a little too sensitive, especially under stress.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p>When stress hits, this variant makes it so that you’re more likely to feel mentally overloaded,</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/3-tips-to-handle-holiday-stress-based-on-your-genes/">3 tips to handle holiday stress based on your genes</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>3 scary genes to look out for (COMT, MTHFR, APOE)</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/3-scary-genes-to-look-out-for-comt-mthfr-apoe/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/3-scary-genes-to-look-out-for-comt-mthfr-apoe/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:59:24 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Genetics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[apoe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[comt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MTHFR]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92633</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>These &#8220;scary genes&#8221; can impact our health in ways you might not expect.</p>
<p>Today, we’re uncovering three genes that everyone should know about—and what you can do if you carry the negative variants of them.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92633-_59q97wqprxdl"></a>COMT Gene and…well everything really</h2>
<p>One of the most studied genes in genomics &#8211; because of its huge effects on almost all of your bodily functions &#8211; is the COMT gene.</p>
<p>COMT helps break down many different types of neurotransmitters, like:</p>
<ul>
<li>Dopamine &#8211; the “happiness hormone” responsible for motivation, learning and memory, increased focus and more</li>
<li>Norepinephrine &#8211; manages the body’s response to stress, important factor of the fight or flight response</li>
<li>Epinephrine &#8211; high levels of epinephrine can cause a weak immune system and heart problems</li>
<li>Estrogens &#8211; plays roles in sexual reproduction, brain health, cancer risk, and more.</li>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</ul>
<p>So, your COMT activity might be to blame for your mood issues (like anxiety, depression), your cognitive function (brain fog, lack of mental clarity), and even your risk of developing many different types of cancer.</p>
<p>The beauty of SelfDecode is that our AI-backed software analyzes the genes for you, references it to scientific, peer-reviewed studies, and then gives you information on what those results mean for you and your health. No PhD needed!</p>
<p>By looking at my COMT Biohacker Report, I can see that I have typical COMT activity based on my genetic variant.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=3-scary-genes-to-look-out-for"><strong><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92635 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92633-2.png" width="429" height="510" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92633-2.png 872w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92633-2-404x480.png 404w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92633-2-862x1024.png 862w" sizes="(max-width: 429px) 100vw, 429px" /></strong></a></p>
<p>Folate, Green Tea, and SAM-e are 3 that are high on my personalized list of things to counteract my COMT gene.</p>
<p>This wealth of knowledge is easily available to you &#8211; and this is only looking at <strong>one gene.</strong></p>
<h2><a id="post-92633-_rz7djd6zij20"></a>MTHFR &#38; Methylation</h2>
<p>MTHFR is a key player in something called the <em>methylation pathway</em>, a complex process your body uses for everything from detoxification to energy production.</p>
<p>But the most critical part? It helps convert folate (aka vitamin B9) into a form your body can actually use.</p>
<p>Without proper MTHFR function, this pathway can’t run smoothly, and that can lead to a buildup of a compound called <strong>homocysteine</strong>—which is as ominous as it sounds.</p>
<p>High homocysteine levels are linked to a wide range of health problems, including:</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<ul>
<li><strong>Heart Disease</strong> – Elevated homocysteine can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.</li>
<li><strong>Mental Health Issues</strong> – Since MTHFR helps with neurotransmitter production, low activity can contribute to mood disorders like depression and anxiety.</li>
<li><strong>Cognitive Function</strong> – Brain fog, memory problems, and slower processing can all be linked back to MTHFR activity.</li>
</ul>
<p>That’s why the MTHFR gene can be a “scary gene.” If your</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/3-scary-genes-to-look-out-for-comt-mthfr-apoe/">3 scary genes to look out for (COMT, MTHFR, APOE)</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>Top 3 DNA reports for health insights</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/top-3-dna-reports-for-health-insights/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/top-3-dna-reports-for-health-insights/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Oct 2024 17:17:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Brain]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92607</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>When you’re looking at improving your health, it’s important to ask yourself:</p>
<p>“What changes can I make that will lead to a big leap toward optimal health, instead of just a small step?”</p>
<p>Because the truth is, not all health problems are the same.</p>
<p>It’s important to build a strong foundation, as everything else relies on that solid base.</p>
<p>Interestingly, our members follow this philosophy.</p>
<p>The other day, I wanted to see what reports our members used the most, and the top 3 are all health topics that I think are <strong>pivotal</strong> in setting yourself up for a long and healthy life.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92607-_8e484mgxxxoe"></a>Solve Your Anxiety And Do Things That Matter</h2>
<p>Imagine you’ve cleared up your brain fog, and your creativity is through the roof.</p>
<p>But when it’s time to do something that actually matters to you, anxiety hits, and all your progress gets thrown out the window.</p>
<p>What’s the point of everything you’ve just “improved” if you can’t actually implement it in times of need?</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</p>
<p>Solving my anxiety is the biggest reason that I am who I am today.</p>
<p>It wasn’t until I fixed my crippling anxiety and depression that I started taking the next steps towards a better life.</p>
<p>The Anxiety DNA Report looks at <strong>over 800,000 genetic variants</strong> to show you your genetic risk and then gives you personalized diet, lifestyle and supplement recommendations to get rid of your anxiety.</p>
<p>In my case, Tryptophan was one of my top recommendations.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=top-3-dna-reports-for-health-insights"><img decoding="async" width="2048" height="538" class="wp-image-92608" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92607-1.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92607-1.png 2048w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92607-1-480x126.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92607-1-1024x269.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92607-1-1536x404.png 1536w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/10/word-image-92607-1-1920x504.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></a></p>
<p>Tryptophan is an essential amino acid found in various protein-rich foods and serves as a precursor for serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation.</p>
<p>I carry the negative variants of both the HTR1A and HTR2A genes, which are key players in serotonin regulation. These genetic variants make me more susceptible to lower serotonin levels, which is where tryptophan comes in.</p>
<p>By targeting my specific genetic needs, I’ve been able to tackle the root cause of my anxiety with a supplement that works <strong>for me</strong>—something I wouldn’t have discovered without the Anxiety DNA Report.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=top-3-dna-reports-for-health-insights"><strong>&#62;&#62; GET RID OF YOUR ANXIETY</strong></a></p>
<h2><a id="post-92607-_4d097po7xoht"></a>Low Energy Can Keep You In Bed</h2>
<p>What’s the point of “optimizing your health” if you’re always too tired to enjoy it?</p>
<p>Fatigue is our body&#8217;s way of telling us it&#8217;s time to rest and recover, but sometimes the signal is sent too often, or all the time.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
</p>
<p>Up to <strong>40% of differences in people&#8217;s chances of having chronic fatigue may be due to genetics.</strong></p>
<p>Which is why this report is extremely important.</p>
<p>I used to think I didn’t have energy issues and that</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/top-3-dna-reports-for-health-insights/">Top 3 DNA reports for health insights</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>You don’t need the perfect routine…</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/you-dont-need-the-perfect-routine/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/you-dont-need-the-perfect-routine/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Youssef Merhi]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:16:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Brain]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92582</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>If you&#8217;ve ever doubted your creativity, think again.</p>
<p>Everyone has the potential for creativity; you just need to know how to tap into it.</p>
<p>A few months ago, I felt stuck, believing I couldn&#8217;t be creative unless everything aligned perfectly.</p>
<p>I had to have a great sleep, eat a specific breakfast, sit in the same spot in a coffee shop, and listen to my same YouTube playlist.</p>
<p>I called it my “creativity routine” and if I didn’t follow it, I would not be able to do anything.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
</p>
<p>Does this sound similar to something that you do?</p>
<p>Things changed pretty quickly when I decided to experiment with creativity, which I wrote about in a <a href="https://selfhack.com/blog/how-can-you-improve-creativity/">previous article</a>.</p>
<p>Quick recap: I figured out that L-tyrosine is the perfect supplement to help with my creativity, as it addresses the negative <a href="https://selfdecode.com/app/article/boost-creativity-and-intelligence-with-drd2/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=you-dont-need-the-perfect-routine">DRD2 gene</a> variant that I carry.</p>
<p>L-tyrosine boosts dopamine levels, a crucial neurotransmitter that enhances cognitive flexibility and innovative thinking—both vital for creativity.</p>
<p>Around 2 weeks after I started taking L-tyrosine, I noticed the effects it had on my creativity.</p>
<p>The blank Word document that I hated oh so much was now looked at as a white sheet of opportunity, something that I can use to share my story and the story of SelfDecode.</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
</p>
<p>And the best part is, I don’t need to follow my strict routine.</p>
<p>In fact, I’m writing this now while sitting at the beach. (We love remote work ❤️)</p>
<p>Routine definitely does help, but if it’s the “end all, be all,” then you’re approaching it wrong.</p>
<p>I just wanted to write this follow up email to highlight two things:</p>
<ol>
<li>Creativity is not restricted to “artists.” Everyone is creative, you just have to know how to utilize it. And it’s important not just for the artist, but for everyone &#8211; even if you’re an accountant or you’re in finance, have trust funds, are 6’5 and have blue eyes.</li>
<li>The easiest and quickest way to reach your goals &#8211; whether that’s to improve creativity or mood, increase energy and longevity, &#8211; is to personalize your approach. By using SelfDecode to look at my genes and taking L-tyrosine to counteract my negative variants,<strong> I was able to reach my goal in 2 weeks.</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>SelfDecode offers personalized insights to help you achieve your goals, whether it&#8217;s enhancing creativity, improving mood, or increasing energy. Remember, creativity isn&#8217;t just for artists—it&#8217;s a valuable trait that everyone possesses and can nurture. So, take the first step towards a more creative and fulfilling life by exploring what works best for you.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=you-dont-need-the-perfect-routine"><strong>&#62;&#62; GET SELFDECODE</strong></a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/you-dont-need-the-perfect-routine/">You don’t need the perfect routine…</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>How anxiety can secretly hold you back from your potential</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/how-anxiety-can-secretly-hold-you-back-from-your-potential/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Youssef Merhi]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jul 2024 16:42:36 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Anxiety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kava]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92569</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>“Before long Tommy had gone back to his original defense, producing work that seemed deliberately childish, work that said he ‘couldn’t care less.’”</p>
<p>As I was reading this book, I felt extreme empathy towards the character.</p>
<p>Because this is a clear sign of anxiety deterring you from reaching your potential.</p>
<p>Having suffered from anxiety myself, I understand how it can hold you back.</p>
<p>If you’ve experienced anxiety, I’m sure you can relate too.</p>
<p>We shelter ourselves from the potential of getting hurt in the future by not really putting in the effort in the work that we do.</p>
<p>That way if people like it, that’s great. And if they don’t, well… you weren’t trying hard anyways.</p>
<p>The behavior gets reinforced when people do like the “easy” work that you’re doing, which will happen most of the time.</p>
<p>It’ll happen because you are talented. You do have everything you need to succeed, and even the little-effort work you put in is good.</p>
<div id="cbox-VCT79qEteWuq1M3U"></div>
<p>But just imagine how great it can be.</p>
<p>How easily you can reach your goals if you didn’t have anxiety holding you back.</p>
<p>If you didn’t fear this potential failure.</p>
<p>If you gained the confidence to push yourself past these limits.</p>
<p>That’s what happened with me when I started addressing my anxiety.</p>
<p>And if there’s one thing I regret, it’s that I didn’t do this sooner.</p>
<p>Here’s how I overcame my anxiety and how you can too.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92569-_t7g6629g98e2"></a>How To Get Rid Of Your Anxiety</h2>
<p>Because anxiety was such a prominent health issue, I went directly to my Anxiety Health Risk Report.</p>
<p>This report looks at multiple health data points.</p>
<p>First, it looks at the likelihood of developing anxiety based on 807,582 genetic variants.</p>
<p>Second, it analyzes all of your labs related to anxiety to determine whether you’re in or out of the optimal range.</p>
<p>Then, if you’ve answered some lifestyle questions regarding your anxiety, it’ll decode the information you’ve given.</p>
<p>The algorithm looks at all these data points to then give you your risk of developing anxiety, and personalized diet, lifestyle and supplement recommendations.</p>
<p>This is what my results looked like before I made any changes:</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=anxiety-holds-you-back"><img decoding="async" width="2048" height="369" class="wp-image-92570" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92569-1.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92569-1.png 2048w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92569-1-480x86.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92569-1-1024x185.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92569-1-1536x277.png 1536w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92569-1-1920x346.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></a></p>
<p>My lifestyle risks were increased due to a lack of consistent exercise.</p>
<p>When looking at my labs, ferritin and ALT were some of my out-of-optimal lab markers.</p>
<p>The main gene that impacts my anxiety is the SLC6A1 gene.</p>
<p>The SLC6A1 gene produces the GABA transporter 1 (GAT-1) protein, which is crucial for transporting GABA from the synaptic cleft back into neurons.</p>
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</p>
<p>GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, helping to reduce neural activity and</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/how-anxiety-can-secretly-hold-you-back-from-your-potential/">How anxiety can secretly hold you back from your potential</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>If you have low energy, read this</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/if-you-have-low-energy-read-this/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/if-you-have-low-energy-read-this/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Youssef Merhi]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jul 2024 16:47:33 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Chronic Fatigue]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[decodygpt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fatigue]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92545</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>A few months ago, <a href="https://selfhack.com/blog/how-you-can-unlock-more-energy/">I wrote about how I wanted to improve my energy</a> so that I could outlast my friend on our yearly Euro trip.</p>
<p>A noble cause, I know.</p>
<p>I showed you how you can find the solution to your energy problems just like I did.</p>
<p>A few weeks ago, DecodyGPT was released.</p>
<p>This tool gives you everything you need to take control of your health and find more ways to increase your energy.</p>
<p>With my Euro trip coming up, I saw this as a sign.</p>
<p>That not only can I now keep up with my friend because of my last experiment, but that this new feature was going to take me one step further and I would LEAVE HIM IN THE DUST.</p>
<p>Sorry, I’m getting too caught up in my own drama.</p>
<p>Here’s how you can use DecodyGPT to take your energy to the next level.</p>
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</p>
<h2><a id="post-92545-_qf1t1aonttc"></a>Using DecodyGPT to Improve Energy Levels</h2>
<p>I’ve already done my fair share of research to improve my energy levels, and CoQ10 was the game-changing supplement for me.</p>
<p><strong>But before I took CoQ10, I used to think my energy levels were normal.</strong></p>
<p>It wasn’t until after I took CoQ10 that I realized how far off I was from having optimal energy.</p>
<p>And so I decided to ask DecodyGPT this question:</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=if-you-have-low-energy-read-this"><img decoding="async" width="1618" height="346" class="wp-image-92550" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-5.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-5.png 1618w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-5-480x103.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-5-1024x219.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-5-1536x328.png 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1618px) 100vw, 1618px" /></a></p>
<p>Decody analyzed all my data and gave me 3 additional recommendations, <strong>with</strong> details on how to take, and an option to learn more about how exactly these will help with energy levels.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=if-you-have-low-energy-read-this"><img decoding="async" width="1614" height="934" class="wp-image-92551" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-6.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-6.png 1614w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-6-480x278.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-6-1024x593.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92545-6-1536x889.png 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1614px) 100vw, 1614px" /></a></p>
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</p>
<p>I started off with Panax Ginseng and, similar to CoQ10, I felt a world of difference only a few days in.</p>
<p>I found myself more eager to engage in activities, both social and physical.</p>
<p>This wasn’t just a temporary fix like drinking coffee.</p>
<p>When you improve your energy levels, you’re improving creativity, focus, mood, and so much more.</p>
<p>It truly feels like you unlock a new part of yourself, and I’m super excited to start implementing my other recommendations.</p>
<p>Are you ready to unlock your recommendations?</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=if-you-have-low-energy-read-this"><strong>&#62;&#62; IMPROVE YOUR ENERGY</strong></a></p>
<h2><a id="post-92545-_4plfhg2i4wbf"></a>How Ginseng Helps With Energy</h2>
<p>I just came back from my Euro trip and it was the most fun I’ve ever had. I didn’t feel tired throughout the trip, and the dreaded post-vacation depression I usually felt when I’d come back to work isn’t there.</p>
<p>Ginseng is a big part of that.</p>
<p>It helps with energy in 3 ways:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Reducing Oxidative Stress:</strong> Panax ginseng is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body. By</li>
</ol>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/if-you-have-low-energy-read-this/">If you have low energy, read this</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>5 simple steps to improve your health</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/5-simple-steps-to-improve-your-health/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jul 2024 19:03:50 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Healthy Living]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92525</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to speak at the Biohacker Summit in Helsinki, Finland, where thousands of biohackers and industry leaders gather at this summit to discuss all things health.</p>
<p>My talk focused on <strong>“How to Use AI &#38; Precision Health to Achieve Superhuman Results” </strong>and in it, I highlighted the 5 simple steps to improve your health.</p>
<p>Today, I’ll be sharing these steps with you.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-92528 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/Joe-biohacker-summit-480x420.webp" alt="" width="663" height="580" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/Joe-biohacker-summit-480x420.webp 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/Joe-biohacker-summit-1024x896.webp 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/Joe-biohacker-summit.webp 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 663px) 100vw, 663px" /></p>
<h2><a id="post-92525-_zi1sg6pi10db"></a>Step 1: Get Your DNA Analyzed</h2>
<p>If you’ve already purchased a DNA test, then you’re one step closer to achieving optimal health.</p>
<p>Your DNA is what makes you, you.</p>
<p>It’s why some people can eat whatever they want without gaining weight, while others can’t enjoy an Oreo without consequences.</p>
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</p>
<p>It’s why people feel more stressed than others in similar situations.</p>
<p>It controls so much of your health and it’s the most important step (which is why I put it first )</p>
<p>Getting a DNA test is one thing, but what’s even more important is making sure your results are accurate.</p>
<p>99% of DNA companies will sell a DNA test and claim to “analyze” your DNA to give you your genetic risks.</p>
<p>The truth is they’re only looking at a handful of genes, at most 100 SNPs.</p>
<p>To get truly accurate results, you need to look at millions.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=5-steps-to-improve-your-health">SelfDecode</a> analyzes over 200 million genetic variants in total, giving you the most accurate genetic risk scores.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92525-_fj98ya294fkr"></a>Step 2: Get Comprehensive Lab Tests/Biomarkers</h2>
<p>Once you have your DNA insights, the next crucial step is to understand your current health status through comprehensive lab tests.</p>
<p>While your DNA provides the blueprint, lab tests reveal how your body is functioning in real time.</p>
<p>Lab tests are essential because they measure critical biomarkers that can indicate your risk for various conditions and highlight areas needing improvement. These biomarkers can include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Blood Sugar Levels: Monitoring your blood sugar helps you understand your risk for diabetes and manage your energy levels.</li>
<li>Cholesterol Levels: Knowing your cholesterol levels can help you assess your heart health and make necessary dietary adjustments.</li>
<li>Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies: Identifying deficiencies allows you to tailor your nutrition and supplementation to support overall well-being.</li>
</ul>
<p>SelfDecode analyzes your labs to show you whether or not they’re in the optimal range.</p>
<p><strong>The new SelfDecode 3.0 algorithm takes it one step further, by analyzing your DNA, labs, and lifestyle (which we’ll discuss in step 3) to give you even more personalized recommendations.</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=5-steps-to-improve-your-health"><img decoding="async" width="2048" height="1140" class="wp-image-92526 aligncenter" src="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92525-1.png" srcset="https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92525-1.png 2048w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92525-1-480x267.png 480w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92525-1-1024x570.png 1024w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92525-1-1536x855.png 1536w, https://selfhack.com/app/uploads/2024/07/word-image-92525-1-1920x1069.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></a></p>
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</p>
<h2><a id="post-92525-_vkreq957j2b6"></a>Step 3: Understand Your Lifestyle, Symptoms, Conditions, and Health Goals</h2>
<p>With your DNA insights and lab results in hand, the next step is to</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/5-simple-steps-to-improve-your-health/">5 simple steps to improve your health</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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		<title>SelfDecode 3.0: Experience the power of DecodyGPT</title>
		<link>https://selfhack.com/blog/selfdecode-3-0-decodygpt/</link>
					<comments>https://selfhack.com/blog/selfdecode-3-0-decodygpt/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Joe Cohen, BS]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Jun 2024 15:42:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://selfhack.com/?p=92506</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>SelfDecode 3.0 has officially arrived!</p>
<p>Starting today, you can have a cutting-edge, 24/7 health coach right at your fingertips, designed to help you achieve optimal health with unprecedented ease.</p>
<p><strong>This is not just an upgrade; it&#8217;s a revolution in how you manage your well-being.</strong></p>
<p>With SelfDecode 3.0, we’ve developed groundbreaking features that will transform your approach to health.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=selfdecode-3-0-decodygpt">If you sign up today</a>, here’s what you can expect.</p>
<h2><a id="post-92506-_oaqugzdk1mam"></a>DecodyGPT: Your 24/7 AI Health Coach</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyqN2g8_Uv4">DecodyGPT</a> is the world’s first personalized AI health coach, available to you around the clock.</p>
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<p>Think of it as your personal, always-available health assistant. Integrated seamlessly into SelfDecode, it analyzes your DNA, lab markers, lifestyle assessments, symptoms, conditions, and health goals to provide answers tailored specifically to you.</p>
<p>Imagine having the ability to ask any health-related question and <strong>instantly</strong> receiving answers that are specifically tailored to your unique genetic makeup and current health status.</p>
<p>That is exactly what you can do now with the power of DecodyGPT.</p>
<p>You can ask it basic questions like “What would be the best supplement for my mood?”</p>
<p>Or you can get into specifics, like Youssef recently did.</p>
<p>Coming back from vacation, Youssef asked DecodyGPT:</p>
<p>“I just got back from vacation and I’m feeling some intense brain fog. Could it be that I’m just in a post-vacation slump?</p>
<p>We were on the coast of Spain so I ate quite a bit of seafood, but it was nearly all healthy options and I barely drank alcohol.”</p>
<p>Decody took his recent lifestyle into consideration, analyzed his DNA and all his recent lab results, and gave him the answer he was looking for.</p>
<p>Although he was eating a “healthy diet,” his DNA predisposed him to brain fog, and the increased intake of fish (which has a lot of heavy metals) caused the brain fog to develop.</p>
<p>It recommended 2 supplements catered specifically to his body, and he got rid of his brain fog in a week!</p>
<p><strong>The power of DecodyGPT is limitless.</strong></p>
<p>You can ask it ANY question, and get a personalized answer.</p>
<p><a href="https://selfdecode.com/?utm_source=selfhack&#38;utm_medium=blogpost&#38;utm_campaign=selfdecode-3-0-decodygpt"><strong>&#62;&#62; GET SELFDECODE 3.0</strong></a></p>
<h2><a id="post-92506-_656gicsrve2g"></a>The World’s Smartest Recommendations Engine</h2>
<p>While DecodyGPT is a revolutionary feature, it isn’t the only thing that’s been upgraded with SelfDecode 3.0</p>
<div id="cbox-lWKmxhTX5cWR6Sbz"></div>
<p>If you like to do things on your own and dive deep into your DNA, labs, and health data, our platform as whole has had <strong>significant</strong> upgrades, including the world’s smartest Recommendations Engine!</p>
<p>Our recommendation engine has been supercharged with the latest in AI technology to deliver the most precise and personalized health guidance available.</p>
<p>Whether you’re a biohacker or</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com/blog/selfdecode-3-0-decodygpt/">SelfDecode 3.0: Experience the power of DecodyGPT</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://selfhack.com">SelfHack</a>.</p>
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