As I have to spend $99 to get DNA testing done by 23andMe, it raises the question whether the company is reliable or running a scam. After all, I don’t want to waste my money on a product that doesn’t work at all.
Is DNA testing like 23andMe reliable or a scam?
After searching the Internet for information, I have made several interesting discoveries which point out that DNA testing from 23andME is extremely reliable. You should keep in mind that the accuracy and usefulness of the information from this test only apply to certain regions around the world. For instance, if you are from South Asia, you won’t get a lot of information, as not many people from this region are present in their database.
The technology in this test is legitimate and scientifically valid, which is why it is popular among people. You will be able to discover many traits about yourself, which you will find helpful. For example, let’s assume that your test results show that you are more likely to suffer from low levels of vitamin B12, because of your metabolism rate. As a result of this, you can make the right changes to your diet and lifestyle, which will have a positive impact on your health.
There was a person whose test results told him that there was a very high chance of him not being able to taste bitter compounds. Guess what, it was true, as he doesn’t find Brussels sprout or broccoli bitter, unlike most people in this world. He also confirmed that other details in the test result, such as moving while sleeping and not being too fond of coffee were true.
You should know that once you get the test results from 23andMe, you can share the raw data file with third-parties such as codegen and gedmatch. These websites will give you additional information, such as the details about your health and ancestry.
Also, you should understand that these tests are not accurate all the time because it depends on numerous factors, which are still in the developmental stages. However, 23andMe is going above and beyond to improve their test results.
Let me give you some examples from the real life to show you the reliability of this company’s DNA testing process. In one case, a lady was able to find out that the son she adopted was her 4th cousin, as they had a common ancestor. She was also able to save her life as she discovered a blood condition before it became fatal.
Another individual was able to make the right decision in her life which allowed her to lead a healthy lifestyle. After finding out that her body was fast-twitch dominant, she switched from running to weightlifting. As a result of this, she was able to get her body in shape.