Genomics’ impact on the natural health industry
Genomics plays an essential role in personalized nutrition, validating safe and efficacious dietary
supplements and can ultimately build consumer trust and support health claims.
By Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MBA
Genomics’ is the field of biology where genetics meets big data computing. While it’s not common to see genomics on nutraceutical labels and advertising – it is possible that some form of genomics technology was used in the studies to support their “scientifically studied” label claims. Genomics can play a vital role in advancing the field of nutraceuticals by facilitating the development of personalized nutrition and targeted formulations, as well as quality assurance. Integrating genomics knowledge and technologies with research and development in the natural health industry can enhance the consistency and reliability of nutraceutical products, with significant contributions to the future of the health and wellness industry.
4 ways genomics can play a role in maintaining human health
Genomics tools and methods have transformed the healthcare industry. These are just a few ways genomics can help the dietary supplement and natural products industry.
1. Disease diagnosis and risk assessment
Thanks to genomic technologies, it’s easier to diagnose and assess the risk of various diseases. Today, genetic testing can identify mutations associated with conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and rare genetic disorders. Early detection of genetic markers allows for proactive interventions, such as lifestyle changes, preventive measures or targeted screenings, to prevent or mitigate disease progression.
If consumers understand their genetic risks, some nutraceuticals and dietary supplements might help promote prevention as well as maintenance of disease.
2. Quality control (QC) and authentication
Genomics tools can be utilized for quality control and authentication of nutraceutical ingredients and formulations to help ensure safety, efficacy, and authenticity. It allows us to verify the identity of botanical ingredients, detect adulterants, and confirm the presence of specific bioactive compounds. At Canomiks, we are taking a step further and using genomics to test the biological effect (biological QC) of ingredients for every batch in a cost and time-effective manner.
If suppliers, manufacturers, and CPG companies test ingredients prior to manufacturing the finished formulations , they can prevent costly clinical trial failures and product recalls.
3. Personalized medicine
WIthout genomics, it would be nearly impossible to develop medicine tailored to an individual's genetic makeup. By analyzing a person's genome using sequencing, it can predict how individuals might respond to certain medications, risk for developing specific diseases, and customize treatment plans. Genomic analysis provides insights into an individual's genetic makeup, including variations that affect nutrient metabolism, absorption, and utilization. This information can be used to tailor specific nutritional needs and optimize health outcomes based on genetic predispositions.
Technology like Canomiks Genetune technology helps meet the growing demand for personalized supplements.
If suppliers, manufacturers, and CPG companies test ingredients prior to manufacturing the finished formulations , they can prevent costly clinical trial failures and product recalls.
4. Nutrigenomics
Nutrigenomics, the study of how nutrients and dietary compounds interact with the genome, provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the health-promoting effects of nutraceuticals. Genomic technologies enable researchers to identify genetic markers associated with nutrient responsiveness, disease risk, and metabolic pathways, leading to the discovery of new bioactive compounds and the optimization of existing formulations.
Genomics leads to new discoveries every day, including that of plant-based bioactive compounds.