Percy Blog 3 - The Data Speaks: Understanding My Wellness Blueprint

The Tests: Taking Control with Data (PART 1 – the Epigenetic Test)

So, it’s taken me some time to get to this next blog, but that’s because I’m at a pivotal part of my health journey. After enough appointments to know every GP and specialist in town, and a testing regimen that could qualify me for my own research grant, I realised I was still floundering in a health guessing game. I’d been trying to “fix” my health without having the right data. Without it, every new approach felt like throwing darts blindfolded. Our healthcare system, as well-meaning as it is, often relies on generic advice that doesn’t fully account for each unique body and its chemical makeup. So, I committed to getting as much personalised data as I could—data that would help me understand what was truly happening beneath the surface.

Gathering real data about my health through advanced testing has allowed me to take a systems approach to my wellness. This means looking at the body as an interconnected whole, where one area can impact many others. No more isolated fixes—it’s about understanding the web of connections between every system in the body. This testing journey has been like putting on glasses for the first time; each piece of data has helped bring my health picture into sharp focus. Let’s walk through what I found, how each result connects with the others, and why a systems approach is essential.

This is a long Blog but there is a lot to unpack!

Biomarkers: The Personal Health Roadmap

Before we dive into my specific results, let’s break down what biomarkers actually are and why they’re so crucial. Think of biomarkers as the body’s little post-it notes—markers that tell us what’s working smoothly, where things might be a bit off, and what’s potentially screaming for attention. Biomarkers can come from a range of sources: molecules in the blood, DNA patterns, nutrient levels, hormone levels, or even substances found in urine or stool. Each type of biomarker gives us a specific glimpse into different aspects of health, from how our immune system is coping to how well we’re managing inflammation or stress.

Here’s a quick rundown of the types of biomarkers we can gather and the insights each one provides:

• Genetic and Epigenetic Biomarkers:

Genetic biomarkers capture our DNA blueprint—basically, the fixed set of instructions we inherit from our parents. These markers tell us about our predispositions, like whether we might be more prone to certain health conditions or how we metabolise certain nutrients.

Epigenetic biomarkers, on the other hand, are like the librarian’s sticky notes we talked about earlier. They reveal how our lifestyle and environment are influencing which genes are actively “read” or “silenced.” Epigenetic testing provides insights into how factors like diet, stress, and sleep impact gene expression and overall health, often giving clues for where lifestyle tweaks could help optimise wellness.

• Blood Biomarkers (DBS or Serum Testing): Blood biomarkers—whether from a dried blood spot (DBS) test or a standard blood draw—are a goldmine of information. These biomarkers measure everything from nutrient levels (like vitamins and minerals) to hormones, fatty acids, glucose, cholesterol, and inflammation markers. Blood biomarkers can reveal deficiencies, energy production efficiency, cardiovascular health, and metabolic health. For instance, if my omega-6 levels are high, that’s inflammation’s red flag waving. Meanwhile, elevated DHA and EPA levels tell me my heart and brain are probably doing a little happy dance.
• Urine Biomarkers: Urine testing is particularly useful for assessing metabolic waste products, hydration, and kidney function, as well as for tracking hormone metabolites and certain nutrients. For instance, levels of cortisol metabolites in urine can reflect overall stress and adrenal function. Urine tests are also commonly used to track amino acid levels and vitamin metabolites, which can highlight deficiencies or excesses in key nutrients.
• Faecal Biomarkers (Microbiome Testing): Ah, stool testing—the unsung hero of gut health. While it may not sound glamorous, faecal tests are incredible for gathering insights into the gut microbiome, that bustling community of bacteria and other tiny organisms responsible for managing digestion, immunity, and even mood. By measuring gut bacteria, inflammation markers, and digestion efficiency, these tests can highlight nutrient absorption issues, digestive trouble, or potential systemic inflammation. Basically, they’re the behind-the-scenes crew keeping the whole-body show running.

And for those of us over 50, stool tests pull double duty. These screenings now include checks for hidden (occult) blood in the stool, a critical test for catching potential issues early, like colon cancer. If blood is detected, it’s often a prompt for further testing to rule out any underlying problems. Not the most glamorous of routines, but when it comes to early detection and prevention, these tests are pure gold.

So, while it’s easy to overlook faecal testing, the insights it provides are invaluable for health maintenance and early intervention.

• Saliva Biomarkers: Saliva testing is commonly used to measure stress hormones like cortisol and DHEA throughout the day, as it’s less invasive and reflects hormone levels in a more natural, unstressed state. This can be helpful for tracking how well our bodies cope with stress and how hormone cycles impact sleep, energy, and mood.

Each of these biomarkers serves as a piece of the health puzzle, showing how interconnected our systems are. When combined, they create a comprehensive health map that moves us from treating isolated symptoms to understanding the “why” behind them. In my case, biomarkers (from DBS, epigenetic, and a comprehensive microbiome test - I’ve yet to settle on which microbiome test to take as not all tests are created equal!) provide the specific, actionable insights I need to make targeted, data-driven changes rather than relying on guesswork. Together, these markers help me navigate health with a precision that truly supports long-term wellness.

The Tests: A Full Rundown of My Results

I dove into three main tests—an epigenetic profile, a comprehensive nutritional panel, and an NAD+ assessment. These tests highlighted critical areas that need attention, covering everything from inflammation and cardiovascular health to gut health and energy production.

TEST 1. Epigenetic Testing: A Snapshot of my full 24 Key Health Reports (Minus any Diet advice – that’s a future Blog)

So, here’s the deal with epigenetics: imagine your DNA as a massive library containing every instruction your body could ever need, neatly written down. This genetic library holds all the information, but not every book (or gene) is meant to be read cover-to-cover, all the time. Enter epigenetics—the science of how our choices and environment affect which “books” the librarian decides to pull off the shelf and read out loud. And let me tell you, this librarian has moods, is highly adaptable, and is definitely influenced by what’s happening in your life.

In this analogy, our librarian is directed by epigenetic “marks”—think of them as sticky notes that say things like “Read this one with gusto!” or “Ignore this book for now.” These little notes, called methyl groups (along with other chemical tags), are instructions to turn genes “on” or “off,” guiding the librarian on which books to focus on and which to skip over. When a methyl group attaches to a gene, it’s like slapping a “Do Not Disturb” sign on that book, stopping the gene from being expressed, or “read.”

Now, here’s where things get interesting: methyl groups don’t just appear at random. They’re heavily influenced by our lifestyle—diet, stress, exercise, even sleep. For example, eating leafy greens or foods rich in B vitamins can help peel off some of those “Do Not Disturb” sticky notes from genes that need to be read, promoting things like mental clarity and reduced inflammation. But load up on chronic stress, junk food, and late nights, and you’ll start adding sticky notes to genes linked to inflammation and stress responses. The librarian, following these cues, may then open the “inflammation” and “stress” books a little too often, which over time can lead to less-than-optimal health outcomes. Studies suggest that DNA methylation might even reveal clues about biological age—a useful marker of how our lifestyle could be shaping our future health.

The beauty of this epigenetic “library” system? Unlike permanent changes to our DNA, these epigenetic marks are reversible. So, with a few well-placed lifestyle changes, we can get our librarian to focus on the “good” books—genes that promote wellness, mental sharpness, and resilience. Essentially, epigenetics gives us a say in the story our genes tell, letting us rewrite our health narrative.

Now, back to my personal journey: the specific test I took dived into 24 key areas, from cognitive function to diet, showing how my lifestyle choices affect my genetic expression. Seeing this data laid out was like getting a personalised health roadmap, pinpointing where small, consistent changes could really make a difference. In the next sections, I’ll unpack these top insights, where they’re leading me, and how I’m planning to bring this newfound knowledge into daily life. Here are the top insights:

15. Increased Stress-Induced Sleeplessness Risk: My tendency for sleeplessness due to stress shows the link between mental health and sleep quality. This impacts other systems, including cortisol levels and immune resilience. Stress management now isn’t just about feeling calm—it’s about enhancing overall balance.
16. Mood-Induced Sleeplessness Risk: Alongside stress-induced sleeplessness, I have a risk for sleep disruption linked to low mood. This reveals how mental and emotional health directly impact physical restoration, highlighting the need for a holistic sleep and stress-management approach.
17. Vitamin A Conversion: I have a genetic tendency for reduced conversion of beta-carotene into active vitamin A. This means that eating carrots and hoping for superhero vision isn’t going to cut it. Turns out, I need to add liver to my menu, which is fine—if I can get past the flashbacks to my grandma’s cooking or look into supplements that contain the active form to maintain healthy levels.
18. Nitric Oxide Production: Low nitric oxide levels are flagged in my results. Nitric oxide is vital for cardiovascular health and blood flow, so low levels mean I may need to eat more nitric oxide-boosting foods, like leafy greens and beets, and keep regular exercise in my routine to boost production naturally. Low levels mean lower oxygenation, which can impact energy, brain function, and recovery across the body.
19. MTHFR Activity: My high MTHFR enzyme activity can lead to excessive breakdown of folate, affecting cardiovascular health and increasing susceptibility to oxidative stress. Folate deficiency can have far-reaching effects on mental health, cellular repair, and inflammation.
20. Selenium Deficiency Severity: My markers suggest a greater risk of severe health consequences from selenium deficiency, emphasising how nutrient imbalances can strain systems like immunity and thyroid function. Selenium is a key antioxidant for immune health, so I’m making an extra effort to include selenium-rich foods, like Brazil nuts, fish, and sunflower seeds, in my diet.
21. Omega-6 Risk: I have a heightened tendency for omega-6 levels, which can be pro-inflammatory if they’re not balanced with omega-3s. I need to look at cutting down on omega-6 sources (like certain oils – I’ll do some research as all we use at home is Olive Oil) and increasing omega-3 intake from fatty fish or supplements is essential to keep inflammation in check.
22. Omega-3 Need: Alongside the omega-6 risk, my body requires higher levels of omega-3s to manage inflammation and support heart and brain health. Without sufficient omega-3s, inflammation can affect energy, mood, and long-term cellular health. I need to focus on omega-3-rich foods, like salmon and mackerel, and possibly add a supplement.
23. LH Level Propensity: This marker shows that I’m susceptible to lower-than-typical levels of luteinising hormone, which affects reproductive health, hormonal balance, and possibly even bone density. Hormonal health, in turn, supports mood stability, immune function, and resilience. It shows that these bodily systems all interact with each other!
24. Progesterone Receptors: I have an increased sensitivity to progesterone that can affect hormonal cycles and mood, and it may influence risks for hormone-sensitive cancers. This insight emphasises the connection between hormonal health, mental health, and long-term wellness. Was this a contributing factor for my bought of depression? Interesting….
25. Cortisol Level Propensity: I have a genetic predisposition to produce below-average cortisol levels. Cortisol, our stress hormone, plays a key role in mood, sleep quality, and even metabolism. Lower cortisol can impact my ability to manage stress effectively, so monitoring cortisol through lifestyle adjustments is now a focus.
26. AHCY Variant: This variant is flagged but classified as benign in peer-reviewed studies, meaning it’s not considered impactful on my health. It’s an interesting reminder that even “benign” markers can interconnect with other systems over time.
27. Rosacea Propensity: Turns out, my skin has a higher risk for rosacea, which—surprise, surprise—I’ve been dealing with since my late 20s (ZOMG!). After years of experimenting with creams, serums, and the occasional hopeful prayer, I finally found my secret weapon: Head & Shoulders “Hair Retain”. Yes, a shampoo. It’s the ultimate two-for-one special: managing my rosacea while also trying to keep a few extra hairs on my head. Of course, I’ll continue with a gentle skincare routine and sun protection and probably get a dermatologist’s take to keep those flare-ups in check. Because as I’ve learned, skin health isn’t just surface-level; it reflects internal inflammation, impacting everything from immune function to general inflammation levels.
28. Lumbar Bone Density: My lumbar spine shows a genetic risk for low bone density, increasing the likelihood of fractures and osteoporosis. Bone health is essential for aging well, and it’s influenced by hormonal balance, nutrient levels, and even stress management. To support my bones, I’ll look at possibly calcium supplements and my Vitamin D levels came back at 38ng/mL from an advised range of 25-80 – not great but not bad.
29. IL-10 Inflammation Risk: IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine, and I have a genetic predisposition for lower levels, raising my risk of chronic inflammation that impacts immunity, gut health and many other biological systems. IL-10 levels underscore the interconnected role of gut health in overall wellness. This has emphasised the need for an anti-inflammatory diet and habits to keep inflammation at bay.
30. Anxiety Propensity: A higher-than-average risk of anxiety calls for proactive mental health support. It also links to physical resilience, from immune function to cardiovascular health. I do go into fight or flight mode and I’m a stubborn old git so often stand my ground; this probably doesn’t help!! Certainly, a mental health challenge that I’ve grown to manage over the years – not an easy thing to do!
31. Ischemic Stroke Propensity: Given my increased stroke risk, prioritising cardiovascular health through lifestyle choices like regular exercise and proactive blood pressure management is essential. Keeping my heart and arteries in good shape isn’t just good practice—it’s a necessary focus to help minimise this risk.
32. Ulcerative Colitis Propensity: With my higher-than-average risk for ulcerative colitis, it’s clear that gut health isn’t just an optional area of focus for me; it’s essential. This isn’t a new challenge for me—between countless colonoscopies, an endless stream of polyps removed, and acid reflux that sometimes makes my chest feel like a bonfire (hello, Nexium relief!), I’ve been carrying around these issues for a long time. So, it’s clear I need to step up my game and truly address what’s happening beneath the surface. Gut health affects nearly every aspect of wellness, from nutrient absorption and immune resilience to mood and inflammation regulation. It’s time to get proactive: ditch the long-term reliance on Nexium and invest in a comprehensive Gut Microbiome test. With this deeper dive, I can get real insights into what’s driving these issues and take targeted steps to make gut health a true cornerstone of my wellness strategy.

Medications to Avoid – highlighted by the Epigenetic Tests

Certain medications were flagged in my profile as “best avoided,” which basically means my unique genetic markers make me more likely to experience adverse reactions or interactions with them. Here’s a quick rundown on each one and why it’s best for me to steer clear:

1. Tamoxifen – Often prescribed to treat breast cancer, Tamoxifen’s effectiveness relies on being processed in the liver. My profile likely suggests that I don’t metabolise it well, which could mean it wouldn’t work as intended or might cause excessive side effects if prescribed.
2. Eliglustat – Used to treat Gaucher disease (a genetic disorder affecting certain enzymes), Eliglustat’s effectiveness depends on specific liver enzymes. If I have genetic variants that reduce these enzymes’ activity, taking Eliglustat could lead to buildup in the blood, increasing the risk of side effects.
3. Flucytosine – This antifungal medication is metabolised in the body through pathways I might process too slowly or inconsistently, which could lead to toxicity if the drug isn’t cleared as expected.
4. Clopidogrel – Known as a “blood thinner,” Clopidogrel prevents blood clots but needs to be activated by enzymes in the liver. If I metabolise this drug too quickly or not at all, it could lead to either excessive bleeding or insufficient clot prevention—both significant risks, especially given my cardiovascular focus.
5. Venlafaxine – Used as an antidepressant, Venlafaxine’s metabolism might be compromised due to my genetic profile, leading to increased levels in the bloodstream, which could heighten side effects or reduce its therapeutic effect.

Avoiding these medications helps keep my body from facing unnecessary risks like inflammation, toxicity, or ineffective dosing, helping me stick to treatments that align better with my unique metabolism and health profile.

Epigenetic Summary: A Systems Diagnosis

After diving into my epigenetic results, a few patterns are emerging, like clues that piece together a bigger picture of my health. Each insight—whether about inflammation, hormonal balance, nutrient absorption, or gut health—appears interconnected. Here’s what I’m learning when I connect the dots, and how it’s revealing a clear systems-based diagnosis.

The Themes Revealed

1. Stress, Mood, and Sleeplessness: The Dynamic Trio - My results reveal that stress isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a direct disruptor of sleep and overall resilience. With markers indicating risks for both stress-induced and mood-related sleeplessness (and a tendency toward low cortisol), I’m realising that these are far from isolated issues. My mental health and sleep quality directly impact my immune resilience and even hormonal balance. Managing stress isn’t just about staying calm—it’s a cornerstone of my body’s entire balance.
2. Hormonal Health and Mental Resilience - With markers highlighting variations in cortisol, luteinising hormone (LH), and progesterone sensitivity, my hormonal health stands out as another key system. These hormonal shifts are tied not only to reproductive health but also to mood stability, mental clarity, and even physical endurance. My hormonal profile underscores that mood, stress response, and physical resilience are woven together, reinforcing the need for an interconnected approach that targets mental and physical health as two sides of the same coin.
3. Inflammation at the Core - My results seem to scream “inflammation!” from multiple angles, including tendencies toward high omega-6 levels, low IL-10 (an anti-inflammatory cytokine), and nutrient deficiencies that can further strain my system. Rather than focusing on inflammation in isolation, a systems view suggests that by managing inflammation, I could support everything from gut health to immune resilience, effectively reducing strain on the cardiovascular and mental health fronts as well. It’s a central theme that connects back to diet, lifestyle, and even sleep.
4. Nutritional Absorption and Overall System Efficiency - A few markers indicate that my body may need help with certain nutrients. For example, reduced Vitamin A conversion and high MTHFR activity suggest I might not absorb or process key vitamins as efficiently as I’d hoped. This has far-reaching effects on everything from energy to immunity and brain health. In the bigger picture, small adjustments here can improve how my whole system runs, keeping it fuelled and resilient.
5. Gut Health as the Backbone of Wellness - It’s clear that gut health isn’t just one more factor on the list; it’s foundational. With a predisposition toward ulcerative colitis and markers for inflammation (thanks again to IL-10 and omega-6), my gut emerges as the starting point for overall resilience. This focus aligns with research on the gut’s role in immunity, mental health, and nutrient absorption. Supporting my microbiome may be the key to creating lasting balance across all systems.

Common Threads: A Holistic Approach

Pulling all these threads together, I’m beginning to see that a systems-based approach will give me the most impact. Here’s the roadmap that’s emerging:

• Interconnected Systems: Each result emphasises that my body operates as a whole, not a collection of independent parts. If I improve one area—like managing stress or supporting gut health—it can send positive ripples across other systems.
• Inflammation as a Common Factor: Inflammation pops up in nearly every area, whether it’s the immune system, gut, or even skin health. Taking steps to manage inflammation with an anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle adjustments could offer wide-reaching benefits.
• Mental Health and Hormonal Balance: My results highlight the close relationship between mood, hormone regulation, and physical health. Managing mental health and hormonal balance as part of a unified approach will create better resilience across my entire system.

By using these insights, I can start making meaningful changes that address the whole, not just isolated symptoms. It’s a path toward genuine balance, where each improvement fuels the health of the whole system.

Wrapping Up and a Sneak Peek at What’s Next

With my epigenetic testing wrapped up, I feel like I’ve finally got a personalised roadmap for tackling my health. The results have shown me the intricate ways that areas like stress, inflammation, and gut health are intertwined and impact each other. It’s clear that a systems approach is the key here: by addressing one area, I can create positive effects across the board. From understanding how my genes influence sleep and mood to realising the need to manage inflammation at its roots, these insights give me the data I need to make targeted, meaningful changes.

But this is just the beginning! The next step on this journey is to look at my DBS test results—real-time insights that show exactly how my body is functioning right now. Where epigenetics gave me the “why” behind certain tendencies, the DBS results will tell me the “what” of my current health, from nutrient levels to fatty acid balance. Will my nutrient levels reveal any hidden deficiencies? Are my fatty acids balanced enough to keep inflammation in check? Stay tuned for Part 2, where I dive into my DBS test results and uncover what’s really happening under the hood. I’ll look into how this data can guide the next steps in my health journey, tackling deficiencies, optimising energy, and setting the stage for a resilient, balanced approach to wellness.

On a journey to unlock my health insights! My latest blog dives into how epigenetics and biomarker testing reveal the unique ways our bodies respond to lifestyle choices. Finally, a data-driven roadmap to personalised wellness—one that goes beyond the basics and offers real guidance for lasting health.