April 2008

Genetics analysis kit helps DCs give nutritional advice

Evidence Based Nutrition, Inc. (EBN), a major supplier of nutritional supplements to health practitioners, has teamed with Sciona, Inc. to distribute its popular "MyCellf" personalized genetics test kits to chiropractors.

The test kit and program analyzes a segment of DNA for genetic variations related to nutritional uptake and biological functioning and allows DCs to make personalized nutritional and lifestyle recommendations based on each patient's unique genetic profile.

Patients perform the actual test themselves at home, using a swab to collect cheek cells that are sent directly to Sciona for laboratory analysis. Patients also fill out a lifestyle and health questionnaire focusing on diet and exercise.

Sciona's findings -- based on the DNA analysis from 27 specific genes -- reflect how the individual's genetic makeup metabolizes and utilizes foods and beverages. Sciona also analyzes the questionnaire using its Sciona Genostic Rules Engine.

Approximately two weeks after the analysis, the chiropractor receives a comprehensive report which includes an "Action Plan," which EBN characterizes as "a highly accurate assessment based on genetic screening for variations in a specific set of genes that have been proven in numerous studies to respond to nutritional and lifestyle changes."

The doctor then meets with the patient to discuss the findings and learn what lifestyle and nutritional modifications are recommended.

"People are taking all sorts of nutritional supplements and they're also eating fortified nutrient-rich foods with the result that many are now ending up on the side of vitamin stacking," points out Terry A. Rondberg, DC, president of the World Chiropractic Alliance and a health fanatic. "Both vitamin deficiency and vitamin overdose are harmful to the body. Since the EBN MyCellf testing kit eliminates the guess work, I've decided to have the EBN MyCellf test performed to find out what my DNA discloses," he states.

"Proper nutritional balance enhances the benefits of chiropractic adjustments," notes EBN founder Kurt Donsbach, DC, ND, PhD.

"The strategic relationship between Sciona and EBN provides entrance into a new and growing market of 60,000-plus chiropractors who perform services on behalf of millions of consumers each year," explains Sciona President and CEO Peter Vitulli. "The use of our Mycellf DNA Kits will assist chiropractors in attracting new business and bringing clients back for continued care and purchase of nutritional supplements -- as most of these individuals are seeking optimal health."

The EBN Mycellf Kit is sold directly to licensed chiropractors, nutritionists and health care practitioners through the EBN supplement website at www.ebnsupplements.com for resale to their clientele.

"It's not CSI, but it's very close," Dr. Rondberg adds. "By utilizing advanced technology, it's going to give patients knowledge they can't get anywhere else in the industry."