Achilles tendon injury includes degenerative and painful conditions that affect athletes in a wide range of sports, including up to 20% of runners. This is a multifactorial condition for which various genetic risk factors have been identified. Some genetic variants contribute to the risk of achilles tendinopathy, while genetic variant in the MMP3 has been found to be protective.

Acne is most common in teenagers and young adults. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and oil from the skin, and ranges in appearance from blackheads to pimples to bumps.

An addictive personality is a sign of various addictions, typically caused by a reduced response to pleasure. This leads to self-medicating activities that activate the pleasure centers of the brain. This causes one to latch onto these activities, creating an addiction.

Aerobic capacity or performance can be measured by the body’s ability to deliver and use the maximal volume of oxygen for producing energy that can be used by the muscles during maximal intensity exercise. The VO2 max (known as maximum aerobic power) test is the most effective measurement of aerobic fitness. Aerobic fitness is a determinant of endurance capacity during prolonged exercise, especially in certain competitive sports. 

One’s agreeableness is a combination of personality traits, such as their kindness, sympathy, and warmth. While much of agreeableness is learned socially, there is still a powerful genetic factor that influences its development. Interestingly, people who are agreeable tend to enjoy mornings more.

Alcoholism, also known as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a term used when the consumption of alcohol manifests in mental or physical health problems. A high predisposition to AUD will cause the development of alcohol dependence to be more likely to begin at the onset of alcohol consumption.

Pancreatitis is characterized by the inflammation of the pancreas, which causes it to function incorrectly. Due to it’s chronic nature, this condition permanently affects the condition of the pancreas. This disease has been shown to be hereditary, meaning genetics is an important factor to consider when discussing alcoholic chronic pancreatitis.

Cockroaches are some of nature’s most hardy animals and can be found everywhere. Cockroaches are a common allergen that can cause runny noses, itchy or red eyes, skin rashes, coughs, or mucus. People with particular genetic variations are more at risk of having cockroach allergies.

Dust mites are tiny insects invisible to the eye that are commonly found in dusty places and are a common allergen. Symptoms include itchy eyes, a stuffy nose, sneezing, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting. Almost 20 million Americans have a dust mite allergy.

An allergy to eggs is caused by the body’s inability to break down egg protein which causes many problems. Symptoms include rashes, hives, congestion, vomiting, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

An allergy to milk is caused by the body’s inability to process milk or lactose, which causes many problems. Symptoms include bloating, gas, diarrhea, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

Mold is a fungus that can typically be found in moist places and is a common allergen. A mold allergy is similar to other allergies, in that its symptoms include swelling, rashes, nausea, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

An allergy to peanuts is caused by the body’s inability to process peanut proteins, which causes many problems. Symptoms vary wildly, including anything from an itchy mouth to severe anaphylaxis. Allergies range in severity, and some can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

Pet allergies are often triggered by proteins found in a pet’s saliva, urine, or dander. Symptoms include sneezing, runny noses, difficulty breathing, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

Some people find it harder than others to keep their temper in check. Those with a higher anger response are more irritable, and more likely to resort to anger when faced with problems.

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is the tear or sprain of one of the key ligaments in your knee which connects your thigh bone (femur) to your shinbone (tibia). ACL ruptures are considered the most severe joint injuries commonly occurring in sports that involve sudden stops and changes in direction such as basketball, soccer, tennis, and football. There are some genetic variations that are associated with a higher risk of ACL ruptures. 

Birch pollen is one of the largest causes of a pollen allergy and can trigger hay fever. Symptoms include an itchy or swelling mouth, difficulty breathing, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

The perception of bitterness is due to genetic variations in several bitter taste receptors: when food enters the mouth, the molecules interact with saliva and then bind to taste receptors in the mouth, giving the sensation of the bitter taste. People with these genetic variations are sensitive to bitter foods.

Having a predisposition to caffeine consumption means you are more likely to consume caffeine with some regularity. While most people have caffeine every now and then in the form of coffee or tea, people with a predisposition to caffeine consumption are more likely to get hooked on it, and find it harder to stop using it.

Genes determine if a person is a fast or a slow metabolizer of caffeine. Slow metabolizers are hypersensitive to caffeine It cakes them twice as tong to eliminate caffeine from their bodies than a normal metabolize, These people can get jitters and insomnia from only one cup of coffee.

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, an important part of bones and teeth, and plays a central role in the functions of your nervous system, muscles, controlling blood vessels, and insulin secretion. The human body does not produce calcium, so you must get it through dietary sources. Long-term calcium deficiency can result in bone loss and osteoporosis. 

Cannabis is a plant that holds psychoactive and relaxing properties. The principal compound within the plant is THC, which gives the users the feeling of being “high” by altering mood and cognition. 

Cannabis is a plant that holds psychoactive and relaxing properties. The principal compound within the plant is THC, which gives the users the feeling of being “high” by altering mood and cognition. One’s genetic predisposition to cannabis is an important factor in their choice to begin using it.

Individuals with specific genetic variations are more likely to crave carbs than others. Increased carb craving may result in overconsumption of carbs leading to obesity, diabetes, and other health risks. 

Choline is a water-soluble essential micronutrient which can be made by the body in small amounts but must be consumed in the diet for optimal health benefits. It is involved in many key processes including regulation of homocysteine levels, lipid transport, maintenance of the structural integrity of cell membranes, nerve signaling, metabolism, and normal brain function. Choline deficiency causes muscle damage and abnormal deposition of fat in the liver, which may result in a condition known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Cocaine is a stimulant that causes increased levels of alertness, attention, and energy. Becoming dependent on cocaine means that after frequent periods of usage, the person needs to consume cocaine to feel normal regularly. As well, the user may become desensitized, requiring higher doses to achieve the desirable effect.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble compound primarily synthesized by the body which helps enzymes ensure biochemical reactions run smoothly. It has antioxidant benefits, helps with heart disease, skin appearance, and fine wrinkles. It has been found that taking a combination of nutrients that include CoQ10 benefits patients with cardiovascular disorders, including quicker recovery from surgeries.

Coffee is one of the primary sources of caffeine and one of the most consumed drinks worldwide. Most people who drink coffee every morning forget about its potential health benefits and risks. Coffee is rich in caffeine, Vitamin B2, and Magnesium. 

While drinking coffee at low to moderate levels (1-5 cups a day) can be beneficial, exceeding it can lead to great harm, including possibly getting withdrawal symptoms if one\\\'s coffee intake is cut off. Keeping an eye on your coffee consumption can certainly help, but it is also worth examining your genetic predisposition towards excessive coffee consumption.

Collagen is a connective tissue protein that makes up around a quarter of the protein found in the body. Its main purpose is supporting and strengthening key parts of your body, and it is an important factor in determining skin elasticity.

Contact allergies are becoming more and more common throughout the world. One of the most common types nowadays is an allergy to metal alloys - particularly nickel. 

Copper is an essential trace mineral that plays an important role in the health of blood vessels, nerves, immune system, bones, and connective tissues (including hair, skin, nails, tendons, ligaments). It is also integral for energy production, the formation of collagen, iron absorption. Severe copper deficiency is rare but may be caused by malnutrition, disorders that impair nutrient absorption (Crohn’s disease), some surgeries, and medications.

Creativity is the ability to apply non-standard solutions to problems. Studies have shown that up to 30% of creativity is heritable, meaning it has a traceable genetic component to it. Those with higher levels of creativity tend to be more ambitious, as many careers benefit from the implementation of creative solutions to complex problems.

The sensitivity of your skin determines its reactions to irritants, toxins, and allergens. Those with higher skin sensitivity tend to be more likely to suffer from outbreaks, as well as being more at risk of allergies.

Your genes determine how quickly you lose weight! There are also medical conditions that impair weight loss such as hypothyroidism, hormonal changes in women, gastrointestinal issues, and depression.

Keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized is one of the most important factors in keeping it healthy. Dry skin can result in flakiness, rashes, dandruff, and much more.

Elite endurance athletes, such as distance runners, road cyclists, and triathletes, excel in aerobic performance. It is their ability to last that separates them from the rest. Humans vary in their potential to achieve success in endurance-oriented sports, this variability majorly depends on genetic factors. A study revealed that several endurance-related genetic markers are linked to elite athlete status.

Empathy is the ability to understand the intentions, motivations, and emotions of others. While part of it is learned socially, it is also influenced in part by your genetics. Those with more empathy are seen as more social and are typically easier to talk to. Those with less empathy are often described as ‘cold’ or ‘uncaring’.

Your muscle endurance measures your ability to repeat an activity for an extended period of time without getting tired. If your muscle structure favors endurance, you have the potential to thrive in exercises that leverage your endurance. Studies have identified that genes influence the fiber type that makes up muscles, and that is linked to strength and endurance.

Your motivation for exercise is partly influenced by your genes. How your body feels during a workout and how you respond mentally can be related to genetics. Studies indicate that up to 50% of your like or dislike for exercise comes down to your genetic makeup. 

Aerobic exercise is generally recommended as lifestyle therapy to prevent, treat, and control hypertension. However, studies show that some people’s blood pressure responses to exercise more than others. This variability in the individual responses can be explained by genetic variations. 

Research has shown that exercise stimulates the production and action of enzymes that function to enhance the cholesterol transport system. Regular exercise helps to increase good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. People with certain genetic variants tend to benefit greatly from exercise alone to improve cholesterol profile.

VO2 max is the maximal volume of oxygen consumption during an exercise. This is important because while exercising your body needs energy i.e ATP, which is generated with the aid of oxygen. So the harder the muscles are working the more energy is needed. It is noted that people respond differently to the same exercise training program, and at least 50% of these differences are due to genetic variations. 

Cardiac output is the amount of blood your heart pumps each minute. Cardiac output = stroke volume × heart rate. So if there are 70 beats per minute, and 70 ml of blood is ejected with each beat of the heart, the cardiac output is 4900 ml/minute. Maintaining sufficient cardiac output is important for the body to function properly, to maintain blood pressure levels, and to supply continuous and adequate oxygen and other nutrients to the brain and other vital organs.

Heart rate increases in response to exercise and begins to decrease with the recovery period. Heart rate response is used as a measurable marker to guide exercise intensity and to monitor progress with the expectation that the heart rate will decrease substantially with regular exercise. However, the cardiovascular benefits of regular physical activity differ among individuals, some exhibit marked improvements while others may show little or no changes. This can be explained by genetic variations.

Experiential learning is a style of learning that focuses more on hands-on experience, rather than memorizing and reciting knowledge. Those with an impairment in this field typically find it harder to discover a solution through trial and error and find it easier to learn things in a more traditional method, such as a classroom.

Exploratory behavior indicates a search for new ideas and products, and to develop new capabilities. It is associated with risk-taking, experimentation, and flexibility.

Extroversion is characterized as being energized by social contact. This is in direct opposition to introversion, which is when one regains their energy by being alone. Extroversion is heritable, meaning you can get it from your parents. As well, it is developed socially, meaning that it can be learned with suitable effort.

Facial pigmented spots, also known as age spots or sun spots, are a common feature of aging skin. They are caused by high UV exposure, which results in melanin clumping up under your skin. These clumps appear as spots on the skin.

Several genetic variations are known to influence the amount of fat consumed by individuals and their overall fat craving. Fat is a dense source of energy, and consuming too much fat may result in heart disease and becoming overweight. 

Food cravings are determined in part by genetics. Certain genetic traits create an inability to taste dietary fats. The inability to detect fats in food can contribute to the overindulgence in fatty foods thereby contributing to heart disease and obesity. 

Gambling is the wagering of money or other such goods on a game of chance, typically with the intent of winning money in the process. Gambling produces norepinephrine, a chemical that is secreted when the body is under a higher amount of stress, arousal, or thrill.

Having a general sensitivity to foods is an important factor that can often result in food allergies, especially when coupled with a weak immune system. Studies have shown that your sensitivity to various foods is primarily determined by your genetics.

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant made by the liver and is required for the proper functioning of other antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, selenium, and carotenoids. It is involved in tissue building, immune response, nutrient metabolism, and regulation of cellular events, including cell proliferation and apoptosis. Glutathione deficiency contributes to oxidative stress, which plays a key role in aging and age-related diseases.

A sensitivity to gluten is caused by the body’s inability to process gluten proteins found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley, which causes many problems. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting. This condition is often referred to as non-celiac gluten sensitivity which is different from celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disorder.

Grass pollen is often found in the air during late spring and early summer and is a common allergen. Symptoms include itching, hives, eczema, hay fever, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

Hay fever is a set of allergic symptoms common to most allergies. Symptoms of hay fever include congestion, sneezing, eye irritation, and more. Hay fever is often caused by pollen, and severely impacts a sufferer’s mental state.

Histamine intolerance is caused by an excess of histamines in the body. Symptoms include nasal congestion, headaches, cramps, fatigue, and more. Histamine intolerance is caused by a core genetic component, but other factors may affect it, such as hormone changes due to menopause, medications, or the presence of high amounts of histamine in a meal.

Impulsivity can be defined as rapid, unplanned behavior with little forethought of the consequences. Impulsivity is related to novelty and excitement seeking.  

Iron is an essential mineral that our bodies need for many functions and is a key element in the metabolism of almost all living organisms. Iron deficiency is a condition marked by low iron stores in the body.

Excess iron in the body can lead to fatigue, anorexia, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, weight loss, and shortness of breath. Genetic variations affect how much iron is absorbed leading to iron overload despite normal iron intake.

Flexibility refers to the range of movement in a joint or series of joints, and length in muscles that cross the joints to induce a bending movement or motion. Flexibility varies between individuals, while it can be improved with regular stretching, some people have inherent joint flexibility. Genetics accounts for a large part in determining our flexibility.

Researchers are beginning to understand how DNA makes some athletes more likely to get hurt. Studies suggest that genetic makeup may play an important role in injury risk. Knowing about this risk is important in adjusting the duration and intensity of training sessions and holds great potential for injury prevention for athletes at every level. 

Lactose intolerance is caused by the body’s inability to properly process lactose, which is a natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

The capacity to lead others effectively is in large part determined by one\'s genetic predisposition towards it. While strong leadership may be acquired socially, having favorable genetics will give you a large boost in those positions.

Lean body mass (LBM) is a part of body composition that is composed of a mass of all organs including bones, muscles, blood, skin, water, and everything else except body fat. In simple terms, it is the difference between total body weight and body fat weight. Lean body mass is a highly inheritable trait. Having this genetic information can be quite valuable.  

Some genetic variations are associated with a tendency for lower protein intake, while others are found to be associated with higher consumption of protein. Knowing one’s genetic tendencies for protein intake, one should be able to adjust the diet appropriately rather than rely solely on one’s natural appetite.

Some genetic variations predispose individuals to show a lack of interest in vegetables. 

Although most of the low vegetable consumption in the US is due to dietary habits, knowing one’s genetic propensity may help choose a healthier diet. 

Carbohydrates are the main source of fuel for your body. They contain certain vitamins and minerals that are essential for general good health. Limiting consumption can be beneficial for those with this gene variation. 

Numerous large studies on weight loss have found that genes associated with fat sensitivity are more responsive to low-fat diets. A low-fat diet should still include monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. They help with feeling more full and several metabolic functions.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin (LZ) are yellow to red xanthophylls, a type of naturally occurring carotene (pigment). They are highly concentrated in parts of the human eye. LZ blocks blue light from reaching the underlying layers in the retina, reducing the risk of light-induced oxidative damage that could lead to macular degeneration and cataracts (leading causes of visual impairment and acquired blindness). Lutein and Zeaxanthin also have important antioxidant functions in the body.

Lycopene is a bright red carotene (pigment) that gives many fruits and vegetables their red color, like tomatoes, watermelons, papayas, pink grapefruits, red carrots. Studies have linked higher consumption of lycopene-rich foods with reduced risk of many diseases, asthma, some cancers, and age-related vision problems.

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in energy metabolism, nerve control, neurotransmitter release, and blood pressure regulation. It is also necessary for proper muscle function, strong bones, and good heart health. In the long term, magnesium deficiency has been associated with a high risk of osteoporosis, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and insulin sensitivity. 

Mathematical aptitude is made up of several skill sets, including the ability to recall information, apply creative problem-solving skills, and to think in abstract terms. While mathematical talent can be cultivated through hard work and patience, some people have a genetic predisposition towards math, meaning they need to put in less work to understand mathematical concepts.

People with certain genetic traits can benefit from eating a Mediterranean Diet. Improved metabolic health, fat loss, reduced chance of heart disease are just a few. Science has shown that this diet is beneficial for most individuals. Those at risk for this specific gene will have the greatest rewards.

Human memory is the result of several distinct mental processes, such as memory encoding, forgetting, and the regulation of memory strength by various stimuli. It varies widely from person to person, and no two people remember events the same way. While memory can be improved with practice and training, some will naturally have better memory than others due to key genetic traits.

Methadone, also commonly sold as Dolophine, is an opioid pain reliever used to manage moderate to low pain. It is commonly used to treat and manage the symptoms of opioid addiction and is commonly given via a prescription.

Misophonia is a sensitivity to various sounds. It is a newly recognized condition that is characterized by feelings of rage triggered by irritating sounds, for example people munching, gum chewing, sipping, footsteps, humming. These sounds are referred to as ‘trigger sounds’ within the misophonia community.

People with certain genetic variations gain the most benefit from the consumption of unsaturated fats. These fats help to reduce inflammation of the entire body. They lower triglycerides, reduce blood pressure, improve heart health, improves the quality of both texture and integrity of your skin.

A lark, early bird, morning person, or, in Scandinavian countries, an A-person, is a person who usually gets up early in the morning and goes to bed early in the evening.

Motion sickness is a common condition that occurs when people travel in cars, planes, or boats. It typically presents itself as dizziness, nausea, and/or fatigue. It occurs when the body, the inner ear, and the eyes send conflicting signals to the brain.

Mugwort is a perennial plant common in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, and are a common allergen. Symptoms are similar to seasonal allergies and include sneezing, coughing, itching, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions in one or more of your muscles that do not relax. Muscle cramps can be caused by the overuse of a muscle, dehydration, muscle strain, or bad posture. In addition to potential risk factors such as inadequate blood supply and mineral depletion, muscle cramps are also influenced to an extent by genetics. 

Muscle injury is a strain or pulled muscle, it is tearing of muscle fibers, occurs mostly when the muscle is overstretched, overused. The level of muscle damage depends on the severity and number of muscle fibers injured. Genes might have an influence on lactate accumulation, risk of muscle cramps, flexibility, and other components that might contribute to muscle damage. 

Resistance training is an exercise that causes the muscles to contract against a force that “resists” the movement, with the expectation to increase strength, power, and endurance. Studies show that nearly all individuals benefit from resistance training but the gains in muscle size and strength are highly variable. Individuals with certain genetic variations might see enhanced benefits.

Muscle soreness is the pain, stiffness or tenderness felt in the muscles due to the physical stress caused by exercise. This side effect of exercise can be experienced immediately or several hours after (delayed onset) new or hard workouts. Although muscle soreness is common and very normal, some individuals experience very painful and longer periods of soreness. This could be influenced by your genes. 

Muscles grow larger and stronger from the time you are born to around the time you turn 30.  But from then you start to lose muscle mass and function. But, having certain genes can put you at greater risk for muscle loss.

Muscular strength is the amount of force a muscle can exert in a single contraction. It relates to your ability to move and lift objects. The estimated proportion of muscle strength that is inherited ranges from 30% to 95% in humans. Genetic contributions to muscle strength likely differ depending on the speed and type of contraction, and the specific muscle group tested.

Musical aptitude has been shown to be influenced by a variety of genetic factors. While the most well-known is perfect pitch - the ability to name and play any pitch - many other genetic variations contribute to innate musical talent.

Musical creativity is the ability to create new forms of music and is most commonly associated with composition and improvisation within the music. This is a different ability than music performance, as performers often stress accuracy, whereas composers stress novelty and out of the box creativity. 

Nicotine cravings are largely caused by the speed at which the body metabolizes nicotine. This speed depends mainly on the glucuronidation pathway, which allows for nicotine metabolization. Your genetics make up a large part of how efficient it is.

Nicotine is a naturally occurring stimulant found most commonly in tobacco. On its own, nicotine is not overtly harmful, other than its addictive qualities. However, since it is most commonly consumed as a component of tobacco, it can hook a user on tobacco, which causes heavy lung damage alongside many other consequences.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a temporary or permanent hearing impairment resulting from prolonged exposure to high levels of noise. While typically caused by environmental circumstances, your genetics can play a key role in determining how sensitive you are to getting NIHL.

One’s sensitivity to opioids is strongly influenced by genetics. Being overly sensitive to opioids vastly increases the risk of habit-forming use, as well as addiction. This can create long term damage, including a hormonal imbalance in both men and women.

Optimism is the ability to look at a situation and see the best in it. It’s an important tool in life, as it keeps you motivated and eager to keep pushing forward, giving you the energy to do things you never thought you could. Optimism is a great asset when coping with stress and trauma.

Everyone benefits from exercise, regardless of age, sex, or physical ability. Regular exercise helps prevent or manage a wide range of health problems. It benefits the heart, improves mental health, and helps with weight management. Some people show quick and strong benefits, while others need more exercise and changes to their diets too. Researchers have identified genetic markers associated with several fitness traits. 

Ligaments and tendons are both made up of fibrous connective tissue. Ligaments are criss-cross bands that connect bones to bones. Tendons link muscles to the bones. Both are vulnerable to overuse causing injuries and disability. Knowing your genetic risk to injuries will help in the customization of exercise recommendations and the right prevention strategies. For individuals who have risk profile genotypes, this information would be helpful.

Several studies have shown that genes do tell the story of body potential. If we do or don’t gain weight can be hard-wired at birth. Why we gain weight varies from individual to individual. From problems with fat metabolism, problems with carbohydrate metabolism our genes dictate our risk.

Phosphorus is an essential mineral that plays a role in cell signaling, energy production, digestion, hormonal balance, proper nutrient utilization, along with muscle and nerve functioning. Serious dietary phosphorus deficiency is uncommon. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency include weak bones, stiff joints, numbness, weakness, loss of appetite, anxiety. 

Skin photoaging is when the skin ages prematurely due to sun exposure. Essentially, UV radiation damages your skin and impairs its function, making it age faster. This often results in sunspots, wrinkles, or sagging skin.

Pleasure is caused by the increase of dopamine within the brain. Some people are born with reduced sensitivity to dopamine, due to a lack of receptors in the brain. This means they don’t feel pleasure at the same level as others and need a higher concentration of dopamine in order to feel happy.

Your skin’s capacity for pollution defense determines how your body reacts to pollution, typically that from the air. Repeated contact with high volumes of air pollution can cause dark spots, inflammation, and faster aging.

There are numerous health benefits of polyunsaturated fats, mainly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Several large-scale studies have identified genetic variations that interfere with the metabolism of omega-3 and omega-6 fats.

Tanning is the skin’s response to sun exposure. When you are exposed to the sun for too long, your skin produces melanin to protect itself from damage. A side-effect of increased melanin in darker skin, which results in a tan.

The muscle power measures the maximum amount of force you can exert in a short period of time. Your power/strength has been estimated to be up to 80% dependent on the proportion of muscle fiber type you inherit. Fast-twitch muscle fibers generate a relatively high amount of force in a short period of time, thus supporting power or strength exercises. 

Cellulite causes the skin on one’s thighs, hips, buttocks, and abdomen to appear lumpy because of higher fat storage beneath those areas. It is most common in women due to their higher estrogen levels, but everyone is susceptible to it, including those with low body fat.

Reading aptitude measures the processing and comprehension capacity of written language. While reading talent can be cultivated through hard work and patience, some people have a genetic predisposition towards being able to read well, meaning they need to put in less work to process and comprehend written language.

The ‘stomach flu’ is not actually the flu at all. It is actually a form of viral gastroenteritis and is very contagious. It has symptoms ranging from abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some people have a genetic variation that makes them more resistant to it, protecting them from the most common strains.

People with certain genetic variations are at a higher risk of elevated triglycerides, elevated cholesterol and weight gain Individuals with this should be particularly careful about avoiding saturated fats.

Sagging eyelids are caused due to a lack of collagen and typically occur with age. While they are typically a cosmetic issue, they can cause irritation or, in extreme cases, visual field loss.

Satiety is a physical sensation of fullness from eating. When satiety is normal, the brain receives a signal that enough calories have been consumed, reducing the feeling of hunger. People with certain genetic variations are more likely to be eating more without feeling full and satisfied. Having low satiety can cause weight gain and overeating.

Seasonal affective disorder, often called seasonality, is an annual depressive cycle that typically begins and ends at the same time every year. This condition can lead to people feeling depressed and lonely during the winters, as opposed to clinical depression, which is typically year-round.

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that plays an important role in the healthy functions of the reproductive system, immune system, and thyroid gland. It is also a powerful antioxidant that acts alongside vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione. Lifestyle factors that contribute to selenium imbalances include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, oral contraception, and auto-immune conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac disease).

Benzene is an organic chemical used in manufacturing and is a common irritant. Symptoms of benzene exposure include coughing, wheezing, headaches, dizziness, and more. Some allergies are more severe, and can have effects that are more easily triggered, more potent, and/or more long-lasting.

Mercury is most commonly found in fish and seafood products, as they absorb it from chemical waste found in polluted water. It is naturally toxic to consume, but some are more sensitive to it than others depending on their genetic predispositions.

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of odorless, tasteless man-made chemicals. They have the tendency to accumulate inside the human body. While the manufacturing of PCB has been stopped, it is still being released into the environment due to a failure to follow proper safety standards. This means that PCB can be found throughout the environment, including the food we eat and the water we drink. While PCB is harmful to everyone, some are genetically predisposed to be more sensitive to it.

Sodium is essential for life, commonly known as the element we get from salt. It’s important for many bodies functions from maintaining the proper balance of water and minerals to conducting nerve impulses and muscle contractions. Too much sodium in the diet can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure, if this becomes chronic, it can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and congestive heart failure.

No two people have the exact same sensitivity to the sun. Due to the wide variety of traits that affect it, it can present itself in many different ways, ranging from being bad at tanning to being more likely to get sunburnt.

Skeletal muscles are voluntary muscles that control nearly every action a person intentionally performs. Skeletal muscles act not only to produce movement but also to stop movement. Certain genetic variants impact negatively, while some have positive improvements, thus influencing muscle performance. 

Skin antioxidant deficiency is the genetic predisposition to have a lower than average amount of antioxidants in your skin. This contributes to various problems, such as unhealthy or over-aged skin, as well as many other non-skin related problems with your organs and muscles.

Your skin barrier prevents the entry of harmful microbes, toxins, and allergens while maintaining proper skin hydration. The function of your skin barrier is primarily determined by the health of the outer layer, which is why it’s so important to keep it clean and healthy.

Your skin naturally detoxifies itself, converting environmental toxins into water-soluble forms that it can then shed. The ability to detoxify is a core part of the skin barrier, which is why it is so important to keep it clean and healthy.

The improper metabolization of glucose (called glycation) can lead to faster skin aging, creating more wrinkles and dryness. Glycation harms the skin’s ability to self-repair and regenerate, damaging it greatly.

Skin inflammation is the result of many complex processes, but it can be boiled down to a hyperactive response to allergens or toxins. Inflammation is not always bad. For example, it is often a sign that your body is repairing itself after contact with germs or environmental toxins.

Rosacea is a common skin condition that is often overlooked. It is a chronic disorder of facial skin, often characterized by flare-ups and remissions. Individuals with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are believed to be at greatest risk of rosacea, but everyone is at risk of having it. Rosacea cannot be cured, but its effect can be minimized. 

Stretch marks can happen to anyone: young or old, fat or thin, we are all prone to getting them. They typically occur in places where fat is stored, such as your hips, thighs, belly, breasts, upper arms, and lower back.

Are you one of those people who take a very long time to heal after a muscle injury? Prolonged strenuous exercise, like high-intensity weight training, results in the activation of inflammatory factors. Several genes enhance the inflammatory response that may slow down the repair of muscle damage following exercise. 

Smoking cessation is the quitting of smoking, primarily in regards to tobacco. Due to the nicotine contained within tobacco, quitting is considered difficult, often inducing heavy cravings and withdrawal symptoms. There is a genetic component to quitting - some have an easier time than others.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease that causes long-term breathing problems, as well as poor airflow. One of the biggest contributing factors to COPD is the inhalation of tobacco smoke. Common symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness.

Studies have shown that an early starting age for smoking is something you can inherit from your parents. This means that whether or not you will begin smoking at a young age is, to some degree, contained within your very own genes

Studies have shown that an early starting age for smoking is something you can inherit from your parents. As well, starting from a young age increases the likelihood of consistent smoking patterns - also known as an “ever regular” smoker.

Any amount of smoking can lead to nicotine addiction - even light smoking. Light smoking is typically defined as smoking up to thirty-nine cigarettes a week, and is typically done socially and paired with alcohol use. One’s tendency towards cigarette use is in large part determined by their genetics.

Some people feel hungry more often than others and are impulsively driven to frequent snacking, which if left unchecked can result in extra weight. Frequent snacking results in weight gain. Some of these genetic variants are associated with higher BMI and weight gain.

Sociability typically refers to how likable and friendly a person is- basically, how social they are. Up to 70% of traits associated with being a sociable person are genetically inherited. These traits include empathy, the ability to integrate socially, and the ability to trust others.

Starch is a complex carbohydrate found in large quantities in grains (oats, barley, rice) and starchy vegetables (potatoes, beans, corn, lentils) that requires amylase to be digested. There are large variations in amylase levels between individuals which depends on various factors including genetics.

Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone caused by repetitive movements or force. Anyone can experience a stress fracture, but some people have higher predisposition which can be associated with lower bone mineral density. Some genetic variations increase the risk of stress fracture while others have protective roles. 

There are two genes that influence the preference for sweet snacks as opposed to salty or savory ones. These genes are not associated with a sweet tooth and sweet taste receptors instead they are associated with how people metabolize foods.

There are genetic variants that may be responsible for the craving for sugar. Studies have shown that sugar is responsible for many diseases and should be monitored carefully.

People with certain genetic variants are more sensitive to the adverse effects of trans fats than others without the variants.  Most trans fats are created in an industrial process that adds hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils. Trans fats are linked to adverse health consequences because they raise bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and lower good cholesterol levels (HDL).

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for proper immune system functions, reproduction, red blood cell production, tissue repair, skin health, vision, and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Carotenoids are important antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents and have enormous protective benefits for heart conditions, respiratory problems, elevated glucose levels, and other conditions.

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for proper immune system functions, reproduction, red blood cell production, tissue repair, skin health, vision, and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Some specific immune, inflammatory, genetic, and reproductive-related benefits of vitamin A can only be obtained from the retinoid forms of vitamin A. These retinoid forms can be especially important for pregnancy and childbirth, infancy, childhood growth, and resistance to infectious diseases.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is involved in many enzyme functions related to the metabolism of carbohydrates and fatty acids. Thiamine imbalances can result from poor dietary intake, reduced gastrointestinal absorption, increased metabolic requirements, or excessive loss of thiamin due to genetic variations. Severe Vitamin B1 deficiencies are rare (except in critically ill people and alcoholics) and they are associated with genetic diseases such as maple syrup urine disease and beriberi.

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is required for the normal functioning of the brain, nervous and digestive systems, as well as red blood cell formation. It is involved in DNA synthesis, fatty acid, and amino acid metabolism. Slight imbalances in vitamin B-12 can lead to anemia, fatigue, stomach inflammation, and affect the nervous system.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is necessary for energy production, normal cell function and growth, and essential metabolic processes in the body. Riboflavin deficiency can affect vision, cause itching, watering, sore, or bloodshot eyes, as well as eyes, becoming light-sensitive and easily fatigued. Riboflavin helps other B vitamins go through the chemical changes that make them useful and plays an important role in iron absorption. That being so, some people with genetic variations need to monitor their vitamin B2 intake more closely.

Vitamin B3 (niacin or nicotinic acid) is essential for the normal functioning of digestive and nervous systems, dealing with oxidative stress, DNA repair, and skin health. It is important in the metabolism of fat, carbohydrates, and alcohol. Severe niacin deficiencies are rare and are usually found in areas of malnutrition. Several genetic variants are associated with an increased risk of niacin imbalances.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) is essential to many reactions in all forms of life, including plants and animals. Vitamin B5 is required for the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates, maintenance of a healthy digestive system, production of red blood cells, sex, and stress-related hormones. While severe vitamin B5 deficiencies are very rare, imbalances may cause fatigue, depression, irritability, nausea, and upper respiratory infections.

Vitamin B6 (and its derivative, pyridoxal 5\'-phosphate, PLP) are involved in many important processes, including protein metabolism, normal functioning of immune and nervous systems, production of hemoglobin, and maintenance of normal levels of homocysteine. Even slight imbalances in vitamin B6 levels are linked to many conditions. Symptoms of a vitamin B6 imbalance include nerve inflammation, irritability, depression, dermatitis, cracked and sore lips, inflamed tongue and mouth, and confusion.

Vitamin B7 (biotin) is essential for the normal function of the nervous system as well as the maintenance of normal skin and mucous membranes, activating metabolism in the hair roots and fingernail cells. Symptoms of biotin imbalance include hair loss, brittle fingernails, fatigue, insomnia, depression.

Vitamin B9 (folate) is essential for vital processes such as DNA synthesis, methylation, cell repair and maintenance, protein metabolism, and the formation of blood cells. The terms Folic acid and folate are the same, but folic acid is the type of folate found in vitamin supplements and fortified foods. It is really important for pregnant women, and women trying to conceive. Folate deficiencies are associated with anemia, elevated levels of homocysteine, pregnancy complications, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble compound that is critical in many vital processes. Vitamin C is essential for the normal functioning of the immune system, production of red blood cells, healthy connective tissues, blood vessels, bones, teeth, and gums. It is a powerful antioxidant, and it participates in iron absorption. While vitamin C deficiencies are rare in developed countries, higher blood levels of vitamin C have been linked to vitality, longevity, lower risk of death from all causes, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer. 

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is critical to bone and muscle health, normal functioning of the immune, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems. Vitamin D can be synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight: it is metabolized into its active form and regulates hundreds of genes by binding to vitamin D receptors (VDR). 

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient that includes eight different naturally occurring compounds. It acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E is essential for healthy skin, as it has anti-inflammatory and photo-protective properties, and it is required for normal functioning of the immune system, blood vessels, and many other organs in the body. Vitamin E imbalances are relatively common and caused by a diet that does not include a sufficient amount of good fats, fat malabsorption disorders, and genetic variations.

Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble vitamins (including phylloquinone, or vitamin K1, phytonadione, and K2, menaquinone) that is essential for promoting healthy blood clotting and healthy bones. Low vitamin K intake increases the risk of excessive bleeding, mineralization of blood vessels, and risk of bone fractures. Genetic variations contribute to vitamin K imbalances, varying in the levels of a specific type of vitamin K.

People with a warrior personality tend to be better at managing stress and pain, but are also prone to anger when they get overwhelmed. An important part of life for those with warrior personalities is managing trauma, as it can often spark violent tendencies if left untreated.

A tendency to overthink, overstress, and overreact are all signs that you may have a worrier personality. Worriers tend to be more vulnerable to stress and pain, but also tend to be better at processing information under most conditions.

The research into genetics for younger-looking skin has recently yielded results showing several genetic variations. These genes are not only important for outward appearance but are also necessary to study general anti-aging and longevity.

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that is needed for all forms of life. Zinc is required for many regulatory, catalytic, and structural processes in the body. It plays an important role in the healthy functioning of the immune system, wound healing, cell division, and protein synthesis. Zinc deficiency has been linked to impaired immune system function, increased colds and infections, diarrhea, loss of appetite, delayed wound healing, hair loss, taste abnormalities, and mental lethargy.