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Testing to learn about your ancestry can tell you more than you think. Genetic testing is the most scientific and popular type of DNA ancestry test today. Alternative techniques that claim to estimate your ancestry have existed for years now. One of these techniques is foot shape ancestry determination. It may not seem accurate at first glance, but there’s a lot to be learned about your ancestors through simply observing your feet. This article will get to the bottom of foot shape ancestry, telling you everything you need to know about this offbeat technique.
Foot shape ancestry is essentially what the shape of your feet reveals about you and your ancestors.
It studies parameters like arch shape and toe patterns to estimate your ethnicity.
Human feet vary in appearance greatly among individuals.
Sometimes, the left and right feet look dissimilar even in the same person.
Based on shape, the five different foot shapes used in foot shape ancestry are–
These shapes are distinguished by their outline and the length of the digits.
You usually inherit most foot shape traits autosomally (from non-sex chromosomes).
Each parent passes down one copy of a gene, and the dominant trait is expressed accordingly.
However, some traits may be X-linked (from the X chromosome).
This creates a disparity in inheritance between males and females.
Since males have only one X chromosome and the Y chromosome is inert, one copy of an X-linked gene equals an expressed trait.
On the other hand, females have two X chromosomes.
Like on any other chromosome, they would need to inherit two copies of an X-linked trait for it to be expressed.
Let's take a deeper look at what ancestry different foot shapes could indicate.
People with a long second digit on their feet are said to have Greek feet or ‘flame feet.’
A study showed that this trait is common in the Greek population.
You can also observe this feature in several Greek statues.
Greek feet have an uneven weight distribution due to their longer second toe, which can cause frequent aches.
However, this foot shape is advantageous for professional athletes.
Research into toe length genetics has shown that the Greek foot is an X-linked recessive trait.
Essentially, this trait is present on the X chromosome and inherited only if both parents have a Greek foot.
A Roman foot shape is characterized by having the first three toes of equal length while the others are shorter.
About 1/4th of the world’s population likely has Roman feet.
People with this foot shape often find it difficult to wear specific footwear like stilettos.
A Germanic foot shape is characterized by a large first digit and the other four toes of roughly the same size.
The toes in this foot shape are also wider and stockier than in other foot types.
The Celtic foot shape is a combination of Germanic and Greek toes.
Like a Greek foot, it has a taller second toe.
Like a Germanic foot, its other toes are of a similar size.
From the third toe, the size progressively reduces.
For this reason, this toe shape is considered complex and variable.
The Celtic foot shape is common in Western Europe, especially Britain and Ireland.
Egyptian foot shape is said to be the neatest of the five shapes.
It is characterized by a long big toe, followed by other toes reducing in size at a 45-degree angle.
This foot shape has a medical advantage as it protects against ingrown toenails.
Interestingly, 80% of people in Japan have an Egyptian foot shape, which is why Japanese footwear is often designed with these feet in mind.
There isn’t a single perfect system or chart that helps determine your foot shape.
The outline of your feet and toe sizes can help determine your foot shape.
Regarding the images and descriptions in this article, you can take a photo of your foot or draw its outline on a paper to compare it.
There is no scientific link between foot shape and ancestry.
While foot shape ancestry is very descriptive and offers some information about genetic traits, science does not support the idea.
It’s a common misconception that foot shape can be used to determine your ancestry, but this is wholly wrong.
Foot shape ancestry is not accepted as a standard scientific practice to determine lineage because it is based on an entirely wrong premise.
As per foot shape ancestry, each population comprised one group of people (monolithic populations), all with the same traits.
However, in reality, populations have migrated, mixed, and mingled over generations.
This means there was never a monolithic population with one type of foot.
At the same time, we cannot presume that people with one kind of foot shape originated in the same place.
For example, northern Japan's secluded Indigenous Ainu people happen to have Greek foot shape features.
Wouldn’t it be bizarre to claim they originated in Greece?
In "The Archaeology of Human Bones," Dr. Simon Mays says that while certain skeletal traits can help reconstruct our evolutionary journey, environmental influences and individual variation often complicate these tasks. Therefore, foot morphology alone cannot be a reliable indicator of ancestry.
The entire premise of foot shape ancestry is based on the assumption of a monolithic population, so it cannot be considered accurate.
While it is fun to know more about what your feet reveal, there are scientific ways to determine your ancestry and lineage, such as DNA tests.
While foot shape ancestry assigns specific foot shapes to an ethnic group, foot shape can vary widely within a single group.
Evolutionary agents and genetics determine foot shape, leading to variations within and across populations.
Multiple traits, such as toe length, arch height, and foot width, determine your overall foot shape.
Since several genes are at play, you inherit some of these genes from each parent.
Viking toe means your second toe is longer than your big toe.
Other turkey toe names include Morton's, Greek, and royal toe.
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Ayurveda is an ancient system of traditional medicine originating from Indian Hindu philosophies. It is one of the world’s oldest and most continuously practiced systems of medicine. The efficacy of Ayurvedic practices lies in their simple and naturopathic techniques that you can easily try at home. Here are 12 simple Ayurvedic practices that can help improve your overall health and well-being.
Ayurveda comes from the Sanskrit words ayur, meaning life, and veda, meaning knowledge.
Thus, Ayurveda translates to "the knowledge of life".
It is based on three philosophies:
Despite being an ancient system, Ayurveda is still very popular worldwide.
In India, it is considered a separate system of medicine.
Some even treat it as a primary form of healthcare.
In the US, Ayurvedic remedies are used alongside modern medicine.
Here are a few possible benefits of Ayurvedic practices:
A good night's sleep is essential for overall health.
Ayurveda promotes going to bed early (by 10 p.m.) for restful sleep.
Avoid using phones, tablets, or computers in bed or before you fall asleep.
Waking up early the following day is easier if you go to bed early.
According to Ayurveda, sleeping past sunrise can make you feel lethargic all day.
That's why waking up at dawn with eight hours of sleep is the right way to start the day.
Ayurveda promotes drinking optimal quantities of water to balance your bodily functions.
Drink at least eight glasses of water evenly across your day.
Start your day with a warm glass of water to cleanse your gut for easy bowel movement.
It's a common practice to start your day by splashing your face with water.
Interestingly, this is one part of an Ayurvedic practice called Shat Kriya, a gauntlet of six cleansing techniques to harmonize your body and soul.
Abhyanga means massaging your body with warm oil.
It can calm the mind and nervous system, tone your muscles, and hydrate the skin.
A 15-20-minute massage with herbal or medicated oil can be very beneficial in the long run.
The correct order is to start with Yoga, then Pranayama (breathing practice), and finish with meditation.
These relaxation techniques help you feel lighter, starting your day without yesterday’s worries.
Ayurveda recommends three meals a day.
A large, hearty lunch should follow a light, nutritious breakfast.
A simple dinner low in carbohydrates will reduce the load on your digestive system as you wind down for the night.
For a balanced diet, you can follow specific Ayurvedic recipes.
Ayurveda encourages freshly prepared food over canned, packaged, or processed food.
Season your food with herbs, spices, and condiments to aid digestion.
Avoid drinking water or liquids with your food, as it may interfere with digestion.
Your bowel movement can indicate the presence of several underlying chronic conditions and give you an idea about your overall health.
According to Ayurveda, hitting the bathroom first thing in the morning is best for your health.
Cleaner bowels promote long-term gut health.
Good oral health is essential for overall health.
Tongue scrapers, garlic water gargles, herbal toothpaste, and oil pulling are all recommended Ayurvedic techniques for better oral health.
Oil pulling is a mouthwash-like technique that uses an edible oil to cleanse the inside of your mouth.
Simple, homemade concoctions with Ayurvedic herbs can help remedy some common health conditions.
Drinking hot water mixed with ginger and honey can help overcome a common cold.
Applying cinnamon and clove oil to the forehead can help ease migraine symptoms.
These concoctions are safe and easy to prepare on short notice.
Ayurveda promotes well-being and relaxation through consciously performing everyday practices.
A warm bath can be a great way to unwind after a long day.
It relieves stress, helping you prepare for a good night’s sleep.
Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle changes are generally safe, but it’s worth knowing the possible risks of these changes.
The US FDA does not regulate herbal supplements.
Some supplements with Ashwagandha and Triphala may interfere with existing conditions or medications for the same.
Though these supplements are available over the counter, they could be harmful.
Some supplements may contain toxic metals like mercury, lead, and arsenic.
Note: The content of this article is based on currently available information. Consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or continuing any Ayurvedic supplements, treatments, or procedures.
Ayurvedic remedies are simple. You can easily incorporate them into your daily routine. They can improve your overall health and wellbeing in the long run.
While most Ayurvedic supplements are generally safe, some may interact with existing conditions and adversely affect the body. It's always best to consult your doctor before introducing a new diet or supplements.
While Ayurvedic medications can't replace modern medicines, doctors usually prescribe them alongside allopathic, traditional drugs to improve treatment outcomes.
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https://www.everydayhealth.com/integrative-health/ayurveda/guide
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2022.0042?journalCode=a
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6492358
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3931197
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ayurvedic-herbs
https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-pranayama
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ayurveda
https://www.webmd.com/balance/ayurvedic-treatments
Ehler-Danlos syndrome is a group of rare inherited disorders that affect the body’s connective tissues, especially the skin, joints, and blood vessels.
Connective tissues are made up of proteins and other substances that provide them with elasticity.
In people with Ehler-Danlos syndrome, the strength of collagen is affected.
Though people with Ehler-Danlos syndrome are born with the condition, it may take years before it gets diagnosed.
There are 13 types of Ehler-Danlos syndromes (EDS), most of which are rare.
Hypermobile EDS (hEDS) is the most common type of Ehler-Danlos syndrome.
Some symptoms of hEDS are:
There are no diagnostic tests for hEDS.
Usually, the diagnosis is based on the individual’s history, symptoms, and physical examination.
Other relatively common types of EDS are classical, vascular, and kyphoscoliotic EDS.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a genetic condition. Over 20 genes have been found to be associated with EDS.
A few genes that have been associated with Ehler-Danlos syndrome are:
These genes provide instructions for making different types of collagen.
Changes (variants) in these genes may disrupt the production or processing of collagen, resulting in weak bones, skin, or other parts of the body.
This gives rise to the characteristic features of Ehler-Danlos syndrome.
Each type of EDS is caused by variants in different collagen genes.
Hypermobile joints, frequent bruising, and painful joints are common symptoms of EDS.
While for some, it may be related to an underlying medical condition, these may be signs of Ehler-Danlos syndrome for a few people.
Dr. Grubb, a cardiologist who specializes in autonomic research and disorders, specified some signs of EDS in his speech at the Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics Health Science campus, Ohio.
*Asymptomatic hypermobility: A condition where a person's joints can move more than usual (are extra flexible), but they don't experience any pain or problems because of it.
**Autonomic test results: The outcomes from medical tests that check how well the body's automatic systems—like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion—work.
Certain gene changes can put you at higher risk for developing many chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and even scoliosis. Learning about your genetic risks can help plan prevention strategies even before the symptoms appear.
Please note: Xcode Life does not test for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
There is no cure for Ehler-Danlos syndrome.
Treatment is aimed at managing the symptoms and preventing further complications.
A few ways to manage Ehler-Danlos syndrome are:
People with EDS usually have many healthcare professionals supporting their journey with the disease.
The healthcare team for EDS usually includes an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, and counselors.
Genetic counseling may help people understand their condition, how it is inherited, and the risk of passing it to their children.
There's no specific treatment for EDS, but it's possible to manage many of the symptoms.
There may be a genetic and symptom overlap between autism and EDS.
There is evidence linking EDS to autism, with some research showing that offspring of mothers with EDS have greater rates of autism.
According to a study, over 20% of mothers with EDS or hypermobility spectrum disorders had children with autism, similar to rates for mothers with autism.
Another 2023 survey reported that females with autism were more likely to have EDS than females without autism.
EDS has some unusual symptoms that may not immediately suggest a connective tissue disorder. These include
Some people also experience digestive issues, fatigue, or even dizziness when standing up due to related conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome).
The main red flag for EDS is hypermobile joints, which move beyond the normal range.
Other signs can be a family history of connective tissue disorders, delayed wound healing, and gum fragility.
Early recognition is key, as EDS can affect multiple body systems.
EDS does not directly affect hair growth or hair loss. However, nutritional deficiencies, common in some types of EDS due to digestive issues, may lead to hair thinning or brittleness. Collagen supplements are sometimes recommended to support overall connective tissue health, but their effect on hair growth is not fully established.
Some people with EDS may have subtle facial features that include thin, translucent skin, a narrow nose, or high cheekbones. In certain types, like vascular EDS, skin can appear paper-thin, especially around the eyes and nose. However, facial features can vary widely, and not all individuals with EDS will exhibit these traits.
Yes, EDS can affect breast tissue. Those with hypermobile EDS experience pain from large breasts. Some studies also report rare cases of calcifications (tiny spots of calcium) in the breast tissue.
Since people with EDS have more delicate tissues, everyday activities can cause small injuries (microtrauma) to the breast tissue.
These tiny injuries can lead to a healing process that sometimes leaves behind calcium deposits.
EDS can be mistaken for other conditions that affect connective tissue, such as Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, or joint hypermobility syndrome.
Due to overlapping symptoms like chronic pain and fatigue, it may also be misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia.
Proper genetic testing and clinical evaluation by a specialist are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome & The Eyes
Fascinated by what your ancestry tests have revealed? But what if, alongside your results, certain physical traits could add more pieces to your ancestral puzzle? Whether or not Vikings appeared in your DNA report, you might be intrigued to discover which physical signs have historically been associated with these legendary seafarers. Let's delve into 7 fascinating traits that might hint at a Viking connection somewhere in the vast branches of your family tree.
The Vikings were a group of maritime warriors from Scandinavia.
They flourished from the 8th to 11th centuries.
They have left an indelible mark on European history and are known for their expedition to unknown lands.
The Vikings traveled through North America and the Mediterranean in search of fortune.
They established trade connections with European countries like Britain and Ireland.
They also looted monasteries and took whatever money or goods they could.
At the same time, they were accomplished craftsmen who produced jewelry and metalwork that was renowned throughout Europe.
There is some dispute as to where the Vikings were initially from.
However, evidence shows they came from the Scandinavian countries, specifically Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
One famous instance was when the Vikings attacked the Lindisfarne monastery in Northumbria, England, in 793 CE.
However, Roman scholars referenced warrior groups with features similar to those of the Vikings before this date.
This means that the Vikings were there before 793 CE and probably originated from Scandinavia.
They later emigrated to Britain, Ireland, Greenland, and Iceland.
The Scandinavian peninsula is an area shared by Norway, Sweden, and a part of northern Finland.
Nordic countries refer to all five of the northern European countries.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of 442 human remains recovered from 80 archaeological sites, including Viking burials.
The team focused on collecting samples from teeth and Petrous bones (part of the inner ear), as these preserve DNA particularly well.
Genetic ancestry tests are becoming increasingly popular. While your DNA can be used to learn about your roots, did you know that it can also reveal important things about your health risks and wellness aspects? This allows you to take proactive measures for health conditions, even before the symptoms appear, thereby preventing it. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Here's how people like you have used their ancestry data to explore Xcode Life
Vikings as a group don't exist anymore.
However, they have Viking descendants all over Europe and the Scandinavian countries.
In many Scandinavian countries, many people dedicate their lives to living like the Vikings did long ago.
There are Viking villages in Norway and Sweden where people recreate the Viking way of life.
In a recent study, scientists examined 300 ancient human genomes from Scandinavia that spanned over 2000 years.
They compared these to modern human genomes and found that nearly 10 percent of Scandinavians had Viking DNA.
In the UK, around 6 percent of people possibly had Viking ancestry.
Many people share their DNA with the Vikings, and a Viking DNA test can help you understand your specific Scandinavian ancestry traits!
These tests examine your DNA and compare it to that of your Viking ancestors to determine how many common segments you share with them; the more segments, the closer you are to the Vikings.
Some companies that offer Viking DNA tests include:
The mutations in the Y chromosome in males indicate the changes that have happened in the direct male lineage.
The two types of mutations are STR and SNP, of which STR is more common.
STRs define the haplogroup as a group of similar haplotypes with a common ancestor.
Among the 20 major Y chromosome haplogroups associated with Vikings are |1, R1a, R1b, G2, and N.
The Vikings hailed from modern-day Scandinavia.
They were also called Norsemen.
People from the Nordic region of Europe are usually considered the closest relatives of Vikings.
The Nordic region consists of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
Since the Vikings were seafarers, they traveled to foreign lands across Europe.
As a result, some Viking DNA can also be found among the British, Scottish, and Irish people.
Around 10 percent of people in Sweden and 6 percent in the UK are said to have Viking DNA.
Vikings originally hail from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
However, they did travel extensively and conquered the British Isles, including Ireland and Scotland.
It led to cultural exchange and intermingling with the local population.
As a result, Viking DNA can be found in many modern-day Scottish and Irish people.
Having the R1a, R1b, or |1 genetic variation does not confirm that you are a Viking, but you could be related to them.
R1a is commonly found in Eastern Europe, while R1b can be found in Ireland, Wales, France, and Spain.
|1 variation is found in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
Outside of these countries, Viking heritage can be found in Britain.
The Vikings colonized and settled in Britain.
If you have any of the above genetic variations with a Norse paternal name, chances are you are related to the Vikings.
Genetic tests usually don't have the word Viking written in the test reports.
The people who take these tests refer to the word "Scandinavia" in the report to claim they are related to the Vikings.
Having Viking DNA can mean that you had a Scandinavian ancestor.
However, people use the results of these genetic tests to explain away specific problematic behaviors.
One man in the US claimed that his Viking ancestry explains why he is so angry all the time.
It is a type of genetic determinism where a person's life results from his genes and is not controlled by him.
The Vikings have long been associated with notions of whiteness and Nordic nationalism.
They have long been used as symbols by prominent fascist movements in Europe.
These genetic ancestry tests can fuel a potential new wave of racism and ethnic chauvinism.
The Vikings are hypothesized to have originated from Scandinavia, which represents present-day Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Genetic testing can identify Scandinavian ancestry, which may suggest a link to Vikings, as they originated from this region. However, DNA alone can’t provide definitive proof of Viking descent due to genetic overlap with other European populations.
Many historical accounts suggest that they were generally tall and robust, with fair skin, light or red hair, and blue or light-colored eyes being common.
Historical sources describe some typical traits as prominent cheekbones, strong jawlines, and deep-set eyes.
The blood type of Vikings is not definitively documented, as blood typing was not available at the time. However, studies of Scandinavian populations suggest that they had a mix of blood types, similar to modern populations in the region, with types O and A being the most common.
Historical sources and genetic studies indicate that blue eyes were common among Vikings, especially in northern Scandinavia. However, green and hazel eyes were also present.
Vikings did not have fixed surnames as we do today. Instead, they used patronymic names, meaning they were derived from the father's first name, followed by "son" or "dóttir" (e.g., Eriksson for "son of Erik" or Leifsdóttir for "daughter of Leif").
The Vikings were a group of maritime explorers from Scandinavia.
They conquered and settled in many European regions, leading to cultural intermingling.
Today, their influences can be seen in European art and culture.
Although the original Vikings have long become extinct, their genes can still be found today.
People from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark are said to be most closely related to the Vikings.
Some physical signs like fair skin and tall stature can be linked to having a possible Viking ancestor.
However, claiming a Viking ancestor does not mean anything scientific.
In reality, it can lead to more racial discrimination and ethnic chauvinism.
https://www.theguardian.com/science/blog/2013/feb/25/viking-ancestors-astrology
https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(22)01468-4
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200916113544.htm
Founded by Debbie Moon in 2015, Genetic Lifehacks aims to combine an engineering mindset with biological systems and apply genetics to dietary and lifestyle choices. Genetic Lifehacks claims to use people's DNA to optimize their diets and lifestyles based on their needs. This article reviews their website, reports, user experience, and privacy to give a clear verdict. Is Genetic Lifehacks worth it?
Top 5 Topics is a genetic consultation report that analyzes your raw DNA data and studies five main traits of interest.
You can upload your raw DNA in three ways:
The report is usually 12-16 pages long and can cover more than five traits if needed.
It’s worth noting that these five traits are often selected at Debbie Moon’s discretion.
Upon request, the report may focus on specific traits of interest.
You may mention them while completing the order or via email.
The Genetic Lifehacks Cheat Sheet is a 102-page report of all genetic variants detected in your raw DNA data.
Some of the categories of traits in the Cheat Sheet include:
Its results are presented in a tabular format, mentioning your risk for a given trait and some recommendations for managing it.
Genetic Lifehacks offers a free 4-day email course on the basics of genetics and genetic testing.
The course helps you understand the various facets of a genetic testing report before you purchase one.
You may opt into the course by providing only your email address.
Genetic Lifehacks provides their reports within 2-4 business days.
While their Top 5 Topics report is reasonably concise, at 12-16 pages, their Ultimate Cheat Sheet Report may go up to 102 pages.
This can be difficult to read, especially since their report could be presented in a more readable or user-friendly manner.
Contrary to most other genetic testing services, Genetic Lifehacks displays its results in a tabular column with little room to explain the nature of each trait and the interpretation of each result.
Additionally, please bear in mind that Debbie Moon is not a doctor.
She only provides information and opinions curated using peer-reviewed research and statistics.
It's best to consult a doctor for medical advice regarding the information provided.
Once you subscribe to a membership plan and purchase a product, you can upload your raw DNA data file from 23andMe or AncestryDNA.
The upload process takes about a minute.
Once that is done, you can complete the checkout.
After checkout, you will receive an email with your Top 5 Report within 2-4 business days.
It’s important to note that Genetic Lifehacks doesn’t provide DNA sample kits.
They only accept raw DNA files from 23andme and AncestryDNA at present.
Genetic Lifehacks offers a membership option to its users at the following rates:
These prices are as of 28th October, 2024. For updated membership pricing, please visit this link.
Genetic Lifehacks offers various services for its users with varied pricing for members and non-members.
For non-members:
For members:
According to their website, Genetic Lifehacks does not store personal information except when purchasing a product.
Additionally, if a user chooses to reach out via email, Genetic Lifehacks records their email address and associated name.
Finally, they store the email addresses of users who opt into their newsletter service.
The website collects user activity statistics and cookies to improve user experience.
To ensure user privacy, they do not use any tracking software on the website.
Genetic Lifehacks has turned off commenting to prevent users from unwittingly sharing sensitive personal and genetic data in the comments under their articles.
Genetic Lifehacks stores user genetic data offline on an encrypted drive.
They delete this data after 30 days and do not use it for research.
The information is used only for consultation and not shared with third parties.
Their privacy policy is transparent about the nature of the information they store and how they handle it.
For further information, read the Genetic Lifehacks Privacy Policy.
More testimonials are available in the News and Research section of their website.
Pros:
Cons:
Genetic Lifehacks has a user-friendly website with a solid community across several forums.
Their email course on genetic testing helps several first-time users understand and appreciate their reports better.
However, the steep cost for non-members, the lack of coverage in reports, and the lack of medical input in each report can deter potential customers.
Genetic Lifehacks may be the right choice if you’d like to learn about a few specific traits and genes in detail instead of receiving an extensive report of dozens of traits.
Genetic Lifehacks may not be the right choice for you if you haven't taken a DNA test yet.
They do not offer a DNA test kit and only accept files from 23andMe and AncestryDNA.
Xcode Life stands apart from other genetic testing companies by providing an efficient, user-friendly, trustworthy, and secure service.
Here's a detailed side-by-side comparison of Genetic Lifehacks and Xcode Life
| Genetic Lifehacks | Xcode Life | |
| Type of genetic testing | DNA raw data analysis | DNA raw data analysis |
| Ancestry reports | Not offered | Not offered |
| Health reports | Not offered | Offered |
| Pharmacogenomic reports | Not offered | Offered |
| Raw data upload | Only from 23andMe and AncestryDNA | DNA raw data from all major providers accepted. Comprehensive list |
| Number of reports | 1 report with 5 topics | 11 |
| Price | Annual membership- $49.99 Other services - $50-$130 No bundles | Reports: $30-$50 Bundles: $160-$199 Price details |
| Sample reports | Nil | Available as detailed report walkthrough videos |
Why are some people more flexible than others? Is flexibility genetic or dependent on your lifestyle? Flexibility is the ability to move your joints and muscles freely through the range of motion that your body allows. In general, body parts that you move more often, like your arms and legs, are more flexible than other parts that aren’t used as much. While exercise can help flexibility, genetics can determine how flexible your joints and muscles can be.
Over-flexibility causes your muscles, ligaments, and tendons to stretch abnormally.
It puts stress on your tendons and ligaments and results in injuries.
Ligaments shouldn’t be stretched beyond more than 6% of their length.
Genetically over-flexible people are at a higher risk of injuries and ligament tears.
While most people think joint mobility depends on your age and how much you exercise, your genes can significantly impact your flexibility.
Some genetic conditions like Ehlers-Danlos may affect your flexibility right from birth.
Certain genes, such as ACTN3, COL5A1, and ESR1, affect the structure and function of muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Mutations in these genes can take a toll on your flexibility.
How Much Of Flexibility Is Determined By Your Genes?
The levels of flexibility and joint hypermobility vary from person to person, but they are highly hereditable traits with clear genetic links.
Scientists estimate that flexibility is around 50% heritable, meaning that 50% of your flexibility could be thanks to your genes.
The ACTN3 gene helps produce the alpha-actinin protein, which gives structure to muscles in the body.
A 2014 study analyzed the effects of polymorphisms in the ACTN3 gene on flexibility and injury risk in ballet dancers in Korea.
It identified an SNP, rs1815739, that can reduce flexibility if mutated.
Typically, the SNP contains two copies of the C allele.
In some cases, the scientists observed that the C allele was replaced by the T allele, either once or twice.
If both copies of the C allele were replaced by T, flexibility was reduced noticeably.
| Genotype | Outcome |
| CC | Unaffected flexibility |
| CT | Unaffected flexibility |
| TT | Lowered flexibility |
The COL5A1 gene is called the ‘flexibility gene.’
It helps produce type V collagen, which keeps bones, muscles, skin, and tendons strong, mobile, and flexible.
Lowered levels of collagen can result in stiffness and reduced flexibility.
rs12722 is an SNP of the COL5A1 gene.
Similarly to the previous SNP, it usually has the C allele that may be replaced by the T allele.
If the SNP is mutated twice, it will contain two T alleles.
This mutation leads to quadricep stiffness and an increased risk of muscle injuries.
The ESR1 gene codes for an estrogen receptor.
Estrogen influences the production and flexibility of collagen, the tissue found in your ligaments and tendons.
More flexible ligaments equal joints with a better range of motion.
rs2234693 is an SNP of the ESR1 gene.
Like the previous SNPs, the T allele may replace its normal C allele.
Interestingly, with each T allele, muscle flexibility decreases further.
Conversely, each C allele is increasingly protective over muscle flexibility.
Thus, people with the CC genotype are more flexible than those with the CT or TC genotypes, who are more flexible than those with the TT genotype.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a genetic disorder that results in loose joints, very stretchy skin, and overly flexible joints.
People with the syndrome have an extra range of joint movements, also called hypermobility.
EDS can cause joint pain, frequent injuries, and bruises on the skin.
Over 100 mutations in the COL5A1 gene occur in people with EDS.
Since little information exists about the inheritance of flexibility as a trait, scientists have attempted to study the inheritance of the genes that play a role in it.
The ACTN3 and ESR1 genes have complex inheritance patterns; they inherit differently in different cases.
However, the mutations in COL5A1 that lead to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.
This means that only one copy of the gene from either parent is sufficient to pass down the condition.
The temperature and time of day- Surprisingly, warmer climates improve flexibility, and you’re generally more flexible in the afternoon than in the morning.
Age- The body's flexibility reduces with age. After 55, collagen production decreases, and tissues lose water, lowering flexibility levels.
Body Bulk - If your body type is bulky, stretching or moving limbs and muscles may be difficult.
Sex: Females are considered more flexible than males because they produce more elastin and estrogen, which are linked to joint flexibility.
Yoga, stretching exercises, pilates, etc., are different exercises that help improve your flexibility.
All these exercises gently stretch muscles and improve mobility.
Static flexible exercises require you to hold a stretch or a position for 30 -60 seconds before relaxing.
They help improve flexibility in different areas of your body.
A warm water bath and breathing exercises can instantly relax your muscles and improve your flexibility.
When done right, massages can help improve flexibility and range of motion.
They can keep your joints more robust and agile in the long term.
Water is essential for the normal functioning of the body.
Dehydration can cause inflexibility and limit your range of motion. Drink enough water every day to stay flexible.
Stress is known to tighten muscles and decrease physical flexibility. Working on mental stress levels can help the muscles relax and improve flexibility.
A naturally inflexible person can become flexible by following a dedicated exercise and stretching regimen. Yoga, pilates, and stretches can slowly build one's range of joint movement.
Flexibility generally increases with age and peaks at age 25. By age 55, collagen production slows down, noticeably decreasing flexibility.
No, stretching cannot increase the length of your bones. It only increases the flexibility and range of movement of your muscles and joints. Height is a complex trait mainly influenced by your genetics and nutrition.
While some genetic mutations can influence flexibility right from birth, non-genetic factors like body type and exercise regimen can significantly impact your overall flexibility and joint hypermobility.
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https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2017.01080/full
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4241924/
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/col5a1/#conditions
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4523805/
https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/EP085974
https://sites.psu.edu/kinescfw/health-education/exercise-articles/the-importance-of-flexibility-and-mobility/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002929707635290
