I recently wrote a blog about the great discounts that SpectraCell is offering on their Micronutrient test (for a limited time only $88) and Complete Cardiovascular panel (for a limited time only $30). If you are still interested in getting these tests done, the good news is that there is still time to receive these discounted rates.
In addition to the tests listed above, SpectraCell also offers two specialty genetic tests that can provide further insight into your cardiovascular health. One is an Apolipoprotein E genotyping test, which determines an individual’s genetic risk associated with the Apolipoprotein E gene. ApoE is involved in the metabolism of cholesterol and triglycerides, and variants in this gene can have clinically relevant implications for disease risk as well as one’s response to statin therapy, dietary fat, and other risk factors (e.g., smoking and alcohol consumption). Approximately 45% of individuals carry one or more of the high risk variants within the ApoE gene. The results of the genotyping of Apolipoprotein E can have important implications in the treatment strategies for individual patients in reducing cardiovascular disease risk. This test is $35 if you have health insurance.
SpectraCell also offers a test for the MTHFR gene, which is associated with elevated levels of the toxic amino acid homocysteine. Individuals with specific mutations of the MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) gene have a much higher risk for heart disease, stroke and dementia due to high levels of homocysteine in their blood. MTHFR is an enzyme responsible for the proper metabolism of the harmful amino acid homocysteine into the benign amino acid methionine. This metabolic process also needs folate and B vitamins to function properly. In people who carry the dangerous version of this gene, the enzyme does not work efficiently and higher than normal amounts of folate and vitamin B12 and B6 are used up in the process. Supplementing with L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate, the most biologically active form of folate, would be recommended for someone who is unable to effectively convert folic acid. The MTHFR test is also $35 with health insurance.
If you are interested in doing any of these Spectracell blood tests, please email me (margo@myvillagegreen.com) to schedule your free blood draw.
