2018 Wellness : Habit Metabolic Test
Photo by Anna Pelzer on Unsplash (which is why there’s dressing & tomatoes!)
I mentioned in my 2018 Wellness Practice post that I was planning to complete the Habit Metabolic Test. I got my results back a few weeks ago!! Warning…this is going to a post about a lot of test results that you may not care about. I find this stuff super-interesting, and totally dig that we have access to so much information about our health these days.
First – the test was relatively simple to complete. It took about 2 hours. My only challenge was that I didn’t allow enough time – and more importantly, hydration – before I pricked my finger for the first blood test. Yuck. The kit instructions are very clear, and the app will walk you through the steps by video.
I bought the Habit Core test, and added my 23andme log in info to connect the tests.
Ready to hear the results??
Numbers – My overall cholesterol has come down 25 points since November, with my LDL down 42 points, and my HDL up 22 points. (I compared to lab results from my Naturopath). My fasting glucose & both post-challenge glucose readings were normal. Fasting & post-challenge triglycerides were normal. Fasting C-Peptides & Disposition Index (both of which deal with insulin) were normal.
DNA Info – I have the genotype that predisposes me to weight gain (thanks Mom!), but do NOT have the genotype that predisposes me to high blood pressure. I don’t have the caffeine sensitivity variant (no surprise there) and don’t show any lactose intolerance. I do have the genotype that is associated with low Vitamin D levels. I have a neutral Inflammation Variant – so only one copy of that variant. There are a number of other variants that are checked – I don’t have most of them. Here’s a shocker – I do not have the genotype that has been associated with enhanced performance in power sports like sprinting or weightlifting. No wonder I suck at sports.
Other indicators – BMI, core measurement, and blood pressure are all normal.
My nutrition plan – I am classified as a Range Seeker. “You thrive on a wide variety of whole foods that are naturally nutrient-rich.” (but doesn’t everyone??). My daily macro recommendation is 50% carbs, 30% fat, and 20% protein. Given that I typically eat low carb, high(ish) protein, and moderate-high fat – this is an interesting shift. Keep in mind that the recommendation is high quality carbs here…not a permission slip to embrace pasta & pizza on a daily basis. My “hero” foods are for this season are kidney beans (yuck), quinoa, olive oil, almonds, wild salmon, swiss chard, asparagus, and apples.
So, what does this all mean to me? I’m feeling really great about the reduced cholesterol numbers (even though I don’t stress too much about overall numbers….ratios are more important to me). I’ve started adding in more chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and whole grains. Still being conscious of sugars (last night’s Easter candy binge notwithstanding). I may spend a couple of weeks tracking macros & meal planning, but overall, I’m more interested in keeping guidelines in mind than I am following a super-prescribed eating plan. And most of all, I’m just going to see how I feel.
Interested in doing your own Habit Test? Use promo code bce506c683 for $25 off your test!