Genetic testing is booming—and for good reason. The promise of personalized health, nutrition, and performance optimization is irresistible. Who wouldn’t want insights tailor-made for their body?
But as with any growing industry, not all DNA testing companies are created equal. Some deliver real science-backed data and actionable guidance. Others? They just want to sell you supplements.
So how do you know the difference?
Let’s break down the red flags and green lights when evaluating a genetic testing company.
✅ Green Light: They Focus on Education, Not Just Products
A quality DNA testing company will teach you something about yourself. Their goal is to empower you with insights—whether that’s about your metabolism, hormone pathways, exercise recovery, or nutrient absorption.
What to look for:
- A well-organized, detailed genetic report that explains your results in plain language
- An emphasis on understanding your unique gene expressions—not diagnosing disease
- Educational resources to help interpret your results
🧠 Bottom line: If their first priority is education, not upselling, you’re probably in good hands.
🚩 Red Flag: The Test is a Gateway to Their Supplement Line
Some companies aren’t actually interested in your long-term wellness—they’re just using your test as a marketing funnel.
Red flags include:
- A vague or overly simplified report that quickly pivots to supplement recommendations
- Aggressive upselling of their proprietary supplement line
- “One-size-fits-all” protocols that don’t account for your lifestyle, medications, or health history
🛑 Watch out: If every path leads to a shopping cart, walk the other way.
✅ Green Light: They Use Well-Researched SNPs (Genetic Variants)
A legitimate DNA company will analyze clinically relevant SNPs—those that have been studied in peer-reviewed research and shown to impact health or function.
Look for mentions of:
- Genes like MTHFR, COMT, APOE, CYP1A2, FTO, GST, and others
- How specific gene variants affect detox, inflammation, stress, cognition, metabolism, etc.
- Scientific citations or references to credible sources
🚩 Red Flag: No Transparency About Science or Methodology
Be wary of companies that don’t share:
- What genes they test
- How your data is analyzed
- Who created the recommendations (was it a PhD team or a marketing intern?)
If their science is a mystery, their results probably are too.
🔍 Test tip: Look for a clear explanation of their testing process and scientific basis.
✅ Green Light: They Let You Delete Your Data
Your DNA is your business. Reputable companies will:
- Make it easy to delete your account or data if you choose
- Be transparent about how (and if) your data is used in research or third-party partnerships
🔐 You should never feel trapped or exploited by your test results.
🚩 Red Flag: They Make Big Health Claims
If a company promises to:
- Cure your chronic fatigue
- Solve your anxiety with one magic pill
That’s a problem.
Genetics is one part of the health puzzle. A quality company will always mention the importance of nutrition, lifestyle, and behavior alongside your genes.
⚠️ Health is multifactorial. Watch out for miracle claims.
What a Good DNA Test Should Do for You
The right test will help you:
- Understand your genetic tendencies (not absolute truths)
- Identify potential nutrient needs or detox support
- Guide conversations with a coach or practitioner
The right company won’t promise perfect health overnight. But it will give you the tools to make better, smarter decisions for your body and mind.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Fooled by the Hype
Your DNA is powerful—but it’s also personal. Choosing the right testing company is like choosing a guide for a very intimate journey. Make sure they’re grounded in science, not just selling to you.
🧬 Curious where to start? We help clients interpret their DNA reports and create custom wellness plans—without the fluff, fads, or sales pitches.
Let’s use your genes to unlock real health, not retail therapy.
👉 Contact us for DNA-focused coaching
