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From nutrition and fitness to health and sleep, a world of information is waiting to be explored within your existing DNA data. One such company that offers genetic testing services is Genomelink. Here, we discuss and review the company’s services and reports. This article is a must-read before you choose to avail yourself of their services!
Genomelink, headquartered in Berkeley, California, is a DNA data upload and analysis site.
It was co-founded by Yuta Matsuda and Kensuke Numakura in 2017.
The company provides a personalized discovery platform for people to explore their DNA, catering to amateurs and genealogists.
It tests 200+ traits under categories like Personality, Intelligence, Fitness, etc.
Genomelink’s mission is to build a DNA App store where users can access genetic information “from fun personal discoveries to impactful health insights.”
Genomelink offers an impressive range of ancestry reports.
Their 12 ancestry offerings range from global ancestry to native American reports.
Let’s have a brief look at them below:
Genomelink has mixed reviews on the accuracy of ancestry reports.
A few Reddit threads report inaccuracies in their Genomelink reports compared to AncestryDNA’s reports.
Other reviews report that ancestry estimation was closer and more accurate than MyHeritage.
Ultimately, the reports' accuracy depends on the markers analyzed for a particular ethnicity and the number of people in the database.
Genomelink offers six health and wellness reports:
According to a feedback survey by Genomelink, 74% of its 300 traits were reported as “accurate” by its users.
However, it’s important to remember that the results reflect the data uploaded.
If the data doesn’t include critical markers for a particular trait, the result may be inaccurate.
You can either upload your raw DNA data yourself or directly import it from 23andMe or MyHeritage.
Raw data files from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage are compatible with Genomelink.
Once the upload is complete, you will be required to answer the following questions:
You will then be taken to your account dashboard to view your results for the 30 free traits.
Follow these three simple steps to log in to your Genomelink account:
You can also log in via Google, Facebook, and Apple, provided they are connected to your account.
If you cannot remember your password, you can reset it using the “Forgot Password” option on the top right corner of the login page.
Genomelink is generally considered safe to use. It claims to uphold strong privacy standards and allows users to control their data.
According to Genomelink’s website, they:
However, there are concerns about data security, potential inaccuracies in the insights provided, and mixed user reviews regarding reliability.
After signing up, Genomelink displays a page with links to its Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Users must accept these terms and conditions of the service.
If you consent, the company shares your data with third-party research partners like Luna DNA, DNA Solves, etc., to aid scientific research.
Both AncestryDNA and Genomelink are reputed ancestry testing services.
However, AncestryDNA has been in operation for a lot longer than Genomelink.
Each service has its strengths.
Genomelink is known for the variety of services it offers, such as whole-genome sequencing, a technology that provides ancestry information based on your chromosome (XGmix), DNA match, interactive dashboard, etc.
AncestryDNA is known for its extremely high accuracy (over 99%) for each marker tested.
Further, AncestryDNA boasts an extensive database of 22 million people, enhancing the accuracy of ethnicity estimates.
Genomelink’s sign-up process is free. You can access only 30 out of 200 traits with the free plan.
To access the remaining traits, you need to subscribe to the Unlimited Monthly Plan, which costs $ 14 per month.
Genomelink Review on Trustpilot (3.8/5)
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Genomelink can be a good, cost-free place to start if you are new to DTC genetic tests.
The results are mainly user-friendly to read.
They seem to have in-depth information on privacy and the use of users’ data.
The free version of Genomelink is definitely worth a try.
You might want to think twice before going ahead with the subscription, though.
Genomelink emails your results even for the locked traits, which are one each week.
The report bundles are overpriced for the number of traits they cover.
The reports look visually appealing; however, the sample reports seem to only be for illustrative purposes.
The actual web-based reports need not be as attractive.
It’s better to check out other cheaper alternatives for these reports.
2025 Update: Free Tools For 23andMe, AncestryDNA Raw Data Analysis
| Genomelink | Xcode Life | |
| Type of genetic testing | DNA raw data analysis | DNA raw data analysis |
| Ancestry reports | Offered | Offered in select countries |
| Health reports | Not offered | Offered |
| Pharmacogenomic reports | Not offered | Offered |
| Raw data upload | Only from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage | DNA raw data from ALL major providers accepted. Comprehensive list |
| Number of reports | 9 | 10 |
| Price | Single Reports: $39-$99Trait plans: $14/month; Yearly payment: $96/year | Reports: $30-$50Bundles: $160-$199one-time payment Price details |
| Sample reports | Available as PDF | Available as detailed report walkthrough videos |
| Trustpilot Rating | 3.8/5 | 4.7/5 |
LifeDNA was founded in 2017 by Steve Markowitz. It is headquartered in Hawaii and specializes in DNA-based health and wellness services. They offer three pricing plans, ranging from $99 to $249. Before investing in their genetic reports, it’s best to know all the facts. Read on to learn more about LifeDNA’s reports and whether they’re worth your money.
LifeDNA primarily offers reports on nutrition, health, and wellness.
The report studies mutations of the MTHFR gene and other associated methylation genes.
Everything in Methylation Genes Report +
Additional freebies and discounts with this bundle include:
Everything in the Wellness Report Bundle +
A typical LifeDNA report contains several traits, each with a circle indicating the level of risk in the result.
It also contains a short trait summary and a “research level” as a quality measure.
They elaborate on each trait, listing the analyzed DNA markers, breaking down your result, and offering recommendations.
The nutrition report contains information on about 18 traits, some of which are:
This report gives you information on 26 vitamins and other micronutrients. The recommendations included tell you whether to maintain your intake or modify it.
The report includes analyses of:
The LifeDNA Fitness report includes a genetic analysis of 19 fitness-related traits, some of which include:
The LifeDNA wellness report includes 16 traits concerning your wellbeing, some of which include:
The Personality and Cognition report provides information about how your genetic makeup will likely affect your personality and cognition. Includes 27 traits, like:
The Skincare Report contains genetic information and active recommendations on 15 skin-related traits such as:
LifeDNA regularly offers coupons that lower the price of the items in your cart.
Some of these (as per couponbirds.com on 8th October 2024) include:
Wethrift.com mentions the following coupons as of 8th October 2024:
Note: These coupons may or may not work, depending on the items in your cart and the time you redeem them.
LifeDNA is transparent about user data security.
They guarantee the protection and safety of genetic data through encryption.
According to LifeDNA, they do not own raw data upon upload; instead, ownership remains 100% with the client.
Without the client's consent, LifeDNA does not use or share genetic data for research or commercial purposes.
Clients may view their data, delete it, or wipe their accounts by emailing the company’s support team.
For more information on LifeDNA’s privacy policy, click here.
LifeDNA’s reputation amongst netizens on Reddit is mixed.
Some users aren’t satisfied with the accuracy of the results.
On Quora, users remain skeptical about its usefulness.
Overall, there’s very little discourse regarding LifeDNA online.
Note: The images in this article may or may not be up-to-date representations of LifeDNA's reports. LifeDNA does not provide sample reports.
| LifeDNA | Xcode Life | |
| Type of genetic testing | DNA kit and analysis | DNA raw data analysis |
| Health report | Nit offered | Offered |
| Pharmacogenomic report | Not offered | Offered |
| Raw data upload | Available but only from 23andMe, MyHeritage, Living DNA, Ancestry, and Family Tree DNA | DNA raw data from all major providers accepted. Comprehensive list |
| Number of traits analyzed | 120+ | 850+ |
| Report updates | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $99-$249 | Reports: $30-$50 Bundles: $160-$199 Price details |
| Sample reports | Unavailable | Available as detailed report walkthrough videos |
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5 Things You Should Know Before Buying Xcode Life
To log in to your 23andMe account, follow the steps given below:
Head over to the 23andMe website, and look for the sign-in button on the top right corner, as shown below.
After you click that button, you should be redirected to the 23andMe login page.
Once you get to the login page, you can enter the email and password that you used to set up your 23andMe account.
Once you enter that information, you will gain access to your account and your 23andMe dashboard.
If you’ve forgotten your password, you can request a reset by clicking “Forgot your Password?”
You will need to enter the email you used to set up your 23andMe account.
Then, instructions will be sent to your email that will provide you with a guide on how to reset your password.
From there, you can follow the instructions, head back to the 23andMe login page, and input your email and password to access your account.
If you are unable to access your account this way, 23andMe now allows you to sign in via Google or Apple, even if you haven't originally registered this way.
To sign out of your 23andMe account, follow the steps given below:
1: Move your cursor to the top right-hand corner of the screen, where you can see your username.
2: Click on the drop-down arrow
3: From the drop-down menu, choose “Sign out”
You have now successfully logged out of your 23andMe account
23andMe has a mobile application available both on Android and iOS devices. It can be downloaded from the Google Play Store/ App Store.
Once you download the app, you can sign in to your account using the same way as you did for the website.
If your 23andMe account is linked to Google, you can choose the "Sign in with Google" option and enter your Google email and password to access your account.
To update your email/password, open your account menu and click on Settings.
You can edit your email here and your password here.
Please note that for security purposes, you'll be asked to enter your date of birth to proceed - it must match the one you entered during account registration for successful verification.
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Useful and easy to understand health reports from DNA data
I received my xlife reports within the timeframe promised using my 23andme data and got useful new information from the reports to inform nutrition and supplemental strategies. Thank you!
- Ash Goodwin
2024 Update: Free Tools For 23andMe, AncestryDNA, FTDNA Raw Data Analysis
Ever felt that sinking feeling, a tightness in your chest, or an overwhelming worry about the future? You’re not alone. Millions around the world grapple with anxiety every day, seeking some way to break free from its grip. From medications to mindfulness, various therapies offer some level of relief. What about sleep meditation? This emerging technique promises to be a game-changer in alleviating anxiety. Is it any good? What does science say? Read on to find out.
Meditation is a holistic relaxation technique that helps shed off the heaviness of stress, poor moods, and exhaustion.
It soothes the body, offering a few moments of peace to the mind and soul.
You can meditate at any time of the day.
If you choose to meditate before you go to bed, you’re practicing sleep meditation.
People opt for sleep meditation to combat sleep disturbances like insomnia or apnea.
Falling asleep as soon as you get into bed isn’t easy for everyone.
Insomnia, stress, and aches can keep you awake for long periods.
Sleep meditation is a simple technique that could help combat all of these.
Traditionally, meditation is the act of reconnecting with one’s thoughts and feelings.
Today, it’s evolved to simply calming one’s mind through various techniques.
Sleep meditation is gaining popularity over other forms of anxiety treatment for the following reasons:
Sleep meditation can take several different forms, like:
Anxiety makes you hyper-aware of your negative thoughts and physical aches.
Lasting feelings of anxiousness can make it hard to fall asleep, leading to problems like insomnia.
Sleep meditation for anxiety helps by alleviating these mental and physical symptoms.
A review examined sleep meditation studies and concluded that it had a moderately positive effect on sleep quality.
Another review showed that sleep meditation improved sleep quality to an extent.
Further research into sleep meditation can help cement its place as an effective, recommended treatment for anxiety.
Sleep meditation can show real improvements beyond a good night’s sleep if done consistently.
It could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
It’s best to avoid meditation during a period of poor mental health.
Being alone with the full force of your negative thoughts can do more harm than good.
A good start to the day involves 5 minutes of meditating, 5 minutes of stretching, and 5 minutes of mentally preparing for the day.
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https://www.healthline.com/health/meditation-for-sleep
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sleep-meditation
https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-breathwork
https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/muscle-relaxation-for-stress-insomnia
https://www.healthline.com/health/body-scan-meditation
https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/nyas.13996
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022399916303579
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350967
https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-ways-to-reduce-anxiety
Learning about your roots beyond your great-grandparents can bring you peace, help you understand where you came from, and allow you to take your place in the world. It can give you a sense of purpose, helping track down your current living relatives that you probably didn’t know you had. Ancestry testing can help you learn much about your roots and culture. African Ancestry Inc. offers these test reports specifically for people of African descent. Here’s what you need to know about them in 2024.
In 2003, Dr. Rick Kittles and Gina Paige founded African Ancestry Inc. in Silver Spring, Maryland.
African Ancestry is the world leader in ancestry tracing for people of African descent.
Using the world’s largest database of African DNA (with over 33,000 DNA samples), the company has helped over 7,50,000 people trace their roots, ethnicity, and family trees.
Unlike 23andMe, which offers health reports alongside ancestry reports, African Ancestry’s sole purpose is to help people find their roots.
The company helps trace your maternal and paternal lineages.
There are several online reviews of African Ancestry and their DNA tests.
African Ancestry offers three test kits: the MatriClan Test Kit, the PatriClan Test Kit, and the Family Celebration package.
They do not use the admixture analysis technique unlike other DNA ancestry tracing companies.
They focus on DNA from the mitochondria and Y chromosomes rather than autosomal DNA.
After placing an order, the report takes 8-11 days to arrive.
Along with the test result, you get:
Both males and females can take this test.
It analyzes the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) inherited exclusively from biological mothers.
You share the same mtDNA as your mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, etc.
The results include an African ethnicity and a present-day region to which your ancestry can be traced.
According to the website, 92% of MatriClan's results are African.
If you belong to the 8%, the company will determine your maternal ancestry as European, Asian, Middle-Eastern, or Indigenous American.
You will not receive any information about your ethnicity or region.
Additionally, the results place you in a haplogroup, a set of people alive today that share a common direct ancestor.
You can get the test for $299 here.
Only males can take this test.
It analyzes the Y chromosome that men inherit exclusively from their biological fathers.
Females can trace their paternal lineage by having a male relative on their father’s side take it.
According to the website, 65% of PatriClan's results are African.
If you belong to the 35%, the company will determine your maternal ancestry as European, Asian, Middle-Eastern, or Indigenous American.
You will not receive any information about your ethnicity or region.
You can get the test for $299 here.
The Family Celebration Bundle includes:
The t-shirts will reflect either your country of ancestry or the African Ancestry Map.
The countries included are Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, and Sierra Leone.
The test is currently on sale for $729 (as of 25th September 2024).
Other than the DNA test kits, you can also shop from their collection of Ancestry Pendants, Ancestry T-shirts, and other Ancestry gifts.
Depending on your purchase, African Ancestry tests analyze your mtDNA, Y-DNA, or autosomal DNA.
Each purchase comes with a test kit containing a swab to collect a DNA sample from your cheek.
At the lab, geneticists analyze your sample and prepare your report.
The report highlights your African ethnicity and region of origin.
African Ancestry allows you to upload raw DNA data files from other genetic testing services.
In these cases, you can submit an Analysis Only request.
While there isn’t a specific list of accepted raw DNA data providers, they mention that they can only analyze raw mtDNA and Y-DNA data.
They cannot analyze autosomal DNA data from another genetic testing service.
African Ancestry does not sell your DNA.
They clearly state that they destroy 100% of your DNA after the analysis.
Your genetic data will not be used for research or commercial purposes, even with your informed consent.
They have not faced any privacy-related controversies over their 21 years in the field.
This reputation is thanks to their iron-clad approach to privacy,
Since the percentage of your DNA halves with each generation, 1% African ancestry means you had an ancestor of African descent 6 or 7 generations ago.
Most people have less than 1% of their roots in Africa, meaning that their most closely related African ancestor lived around 200 years ago.
A 2015 study revealed that, on average, African-American people have 73.2% African heritage, followed by European and Native American ancestry.
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If you’re wondering whether to get rid of your expired 23andMe kit or just use it and hope it still works, you aren’t alone. Genetic testing is growing in popularity, with millions worldwide purchasing at-home DNA test kits. These kits aren’t cheap, so dealing with an expired kit can be challenging. What can you do with an expired DNA test kit? Will 23andMe provide a free replacement? This article will answer these questions and more.
23andMe is a genetic testing company based in the United States.
It was founded in 2006 and has since gained popularity as a Direct-to-Consumer genetic testing company.
23andMe uses the data that they collect from their users for research.
They used genetic test data to determine which groups of people were more vulnerable to the coronavirus and needed immediate vaccination.
The company provides top-quality genetic DNA testing kits.
23andMe kits do expire.
The date of expiration is mentioned on the side of the collection tube in the 23andMe kit, labeled “collect saliva by.”
This date is related to the shelf life of the stabilizing liquid that protects the DNA sample.
Some customers have purchased kits from unauthorized resellers that expire within a few days.
Thus, buying DNA kits directly from 23andMe’s official website is always advisable.
Image source: 23andMe website
Some customers have reported using kits up to two years past their expiry dates.
23andMe mentions that the stabilizing liquid in the kit can last up to 6 months in transit.
DNA Genotek, the company that manufactures these kits, mentions that the stabilizing liquid in the kit can last up to five years.
If in doubt, try using the old kit and see if it’s working.
You could ship it back and request a replacement if it isn't.
A DNA sample in an expired kit might be hard to extract and analyze.
In case of an expired kit, it’s recommended that you contact 23andMe’s customer care service.
The company performs a quality check using basic order information to ensure the kit wasn’t bought from an unauthorized reseller.
Afterward, they typically replace the old equipment free of cost.
However, according to their replacement policy, a new kit can only be shipped to the country from where you placed the original order.
23andMe will only send out one replacement kit.
Afterward, users can request a refund on their order.
While the company may replace the kit, they are more likely to send it to the original shipping address.
Buying your kits from 23andMe’s official website would be ideal.
The liquid is a buffer that mixes with your saliva sample after you collect it.
It stabilizes your sample, preventing bacterial contamination or spoilage before it is analyzed.
Before sample collection, the kit is viable for up to a year.
However, once the kit is used to collect your DNA, the stabilizing fluid will expire within six months.
It’s best to ship the kit back at the earliest.
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2024 Update: Free Tools For 23andMe, AncestryDNA, FTDNA Raw Data Analysis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/23065-dna-test--genetic-testing
