Best DNA Testing Kits for Health & Well-Being
Everyone wants to be healthier, lose weight, and live a happier and more fulfilling life. Some diseases are preventable if we act quickly, and by analyzing your genetic map, health DNA tests can provide vital information to assist you in making important health and well-being decisions. The range of health DNA testing services is exactly what you need if you want to understand and interact with your genes and your body.
The best DNA testing kits for health, mental health, and well-being will reveal your body's secrets. A DNA test can tell you whether you are at risk for certain heart diseases, whether you are a carrier of inherited diseases, and whether you have characteristics that will make you happier and healthier. Examine the most popular DNA tests and choose the one that is right for you.
Index#123andMe
Pros
- Short processing time
- Some of the health tests are FDA-approved
- Large Database
- Great interactive features
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Stores your information into a database
- No Raw Genetic Data Uploading
23andMe is one of the best DNA ancestry testing services, with a large database that makes it easier for customers to find relatives and people with whom they may have genetic relationships. But did you know they also provide a health kit? At 23andMe, you can get personalized genetic insights and tools to help you take better care of your health. See how your DNA can affect your chances of developing certain health conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, celiac disease, and more by using insights backed by cutting-edge science. Learn what your DNA says about lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep. Make informed decisions using what you've learned.
The way the insights are presented is one of the best features of 23andME. After you get the results, you'll learn all kinds of interesting facts about yourself that you probably didn't know. For example, you might discover that your hair is more likely to lighten with sun exposure, or that you dislike the sound of chewing (Misophonia). However, it's important to remember that, while the information in the health reports is certainly interesting and entertaining, it's not the same as a medical test. 23andMe only looks at your chances of having a health condition or being a deep sleeper.
A single Ancestry + Traits kit costs $99 USD. The Health + Ancestry kit is slightly more expensive than the basic kit, costing $199, which is comparable to other sites. However, the processing time for 23andMe is short, the results are accurate, and there are great interactive features and excellent mobile apps. You can also order the kits as a gift and include a message if desired. Health + Ancestry is available in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, and Sweden.
Specifications
Types of tests
How DNA sample is obtained
DNA Kits
#2FamilyTreeDNA
Pros
- Accurate test results
- One in-house laboratory
- No subscription fees
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Long processing time
- Weak privacy protection
- Can be difficult to have your data deleted
FamilyTreeDNA, which was founded in 2000, was a pioneer in the field of genetic genealogy—the use of DNA testing to establish relationships between individuals and determine ancestry. They not only provide a comprehensive breakdown of your ancestry and the ability to connect with your DNA relatives, but they also have a Genetic information approach to wellness. The myDNA Health kit can reveal genetic anomalies such as your alcohol flush reaction, back pain risk, bitter taste perception, caffeine metabolic rate, earwax type, muscle performance, freckling likelihood, and even longevity prospects.
FamilyTreeDNA examines how your body metabolizes food and vitamins, as well as how it responds to different types of exercise. The test is intended to help you make changes to your diet or exercise routine based on your unique results, and it's tailored to your body, allowing you to eat and train the way your body was designed to. However, the results provided by other companies are far easier to understand and provide more health information, whereas FamilyTreeDNA is primarily focused on ancestry DNA testing.
FamilyTreeDNA is not only one of the cheapest DNA testing kits in the market, but its pricing is also straightforward, with separate prices for each package. The Family Finder DNA kit is the most affordable, starting at $79 + shipping, but if you want to empower yourself to make healthier decisions and purchase the myDNA Health kit as well, all you need to do is add $40 and pay $119 for both tests. You can also save money by uploading raw DNA data from another provider, such as 23andMe or MyHeritage. Uploading is free for basic results, but you must pay a small fee to unlock the features.
Specifications
Types of tests
How DNA sample is obtained
DNA Kits
#3SelfDecode
Pros
- Short processing time
- Can import a raw DNA data
- Subscription provides new information
- Accessible and easy to understand
Cons
- Additional reports cost more
- Only accessible through subscriptions
- Subscription gives access to 5 reports only
SelfDecode allows you to explore your genetic health risks in a user-friendly manner. They concentrate on providing personalized lifestyle, diet, and supplement recommendations to help you live a better life. The reports intend to explain how your genes may affect you in a specific health topic, such as sleep, gut health, or mood. These reports provide simple information about your personal genetic risk as well as prioritized recommendations to help you mitigate that risk.
The most important aspect of SelfDecode is that it focuses on health and well-being rather than ancestry. But if you want to receive both your ancestral and health DNA information, you can get a DNA test done with 23andMe or a similar service, and then upload your DNA data into SelfDecode's health software to bring up all your health information. In this regard, SelfDecode allows you to explore your genes without purchasing another test kit. The only catch, though, is that SelfDecode's reports are not approved by the FDA.
SelfDecode costs $97 per year or $297 for unlimited access for people who already have compatible DNA data. You can check with customer service to see if your DNA files are compatible with the company. The SelfDecode DNA testing kit costs $99 for those who do not already have DNA data. These DNA kits can be used to have your genes sequenced at a SelfDecode lab. The biggest disadvantage is that the company requires users to purchase a subscription just to sign up, and the basic annual subscription plan includes five premium DNA Wellness reports.
Specifications
Types of tests
How DNA sample is obtained
DNA Kits
#4LivingDNA
Pros
- Access to fitness-related medical information
- Ability to download and upload raw DNA data
- Strong privacy protection
- Detailed colorful reports
Cons
- Long wait time
- No free shipping options available
- Well-being reports don’t provide carrier status
LivingDNA is one of the world's leading personal genomics companies, specializing in the use of DNA testing to help people transform their lives. You can understand the role genetics plays in your lifestyle choices and how you can optimize your well-being to improve the quality of your life by adjusting your diet and exercise with their DNA Health & Wellbeing kit. A simple test can also help you understand how different foods, vitamins, and exercises affect your body, as well as professional exercise tips and advice that will fit your lifestyle.
If you want to learn even more about yourself, the most comprehensive LivingDNA testing kit is available, which includes both detailed ancestry and wellbeing insights. Your DNA is analyzed on the unique Living DNA system using a simple mouth swab, allowing them to provide a range of advanced reports focused on your goals. From weight management to vitality and digestion to strength and stamina, you'll learn how your body genetically breaks down various vitamins, food types, and the exercise program that can help you. The results are detailed and presented in a colorful, interactive format.
The $149 LivingDNA Health & Wellbeing kit will help you understand the role genetics plays in your lifestyle choices by adjusting your diet and exercise. As previously mentioned, the Wellbeing & Ancestry kit costs $199 and includes both detailed ancestry and wellbeing insights. Shipping is $9.95 for standard delivery and $39.95 for express delivery. The cost of the kit, shipping to you, shipping from you to the lab, and processing are all included in the fee. You can also get a free 7-day email course to help you decide which test to take. However, the processing time is far too long, and it frequently takes much longer than stated.
Specifications
Types of tests
How DNA sample is obtained
DNA Kits
#5ClarityX
Pros
- Short processing time
- Genetic Testing for Medication Response
- Response to mental health medication
- Clinical guidance from the FDA
Cons
- Only available in the US
- Very expensive
- Results can be inconclusive
ClarityX provides genetic test kits that can accurately predict a person's response to medication. Pharmacogenetic testing is a type of DNA testing that looks for variations in genes that may affect how patients metabolize drugs. The knowledge is useful when deciding between antidepressants and in providing physicians with information to help with optimal dosing. Furthermore, ClarityX's Mindwell Test is intended to provide answers based on DNA on how a patient responds to various antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anxiolytics. Because genes don't change over time, a person's Mindwell test results and treatment plan will be valid and accurate for the rest of their lives.
ClarityX believes that treatment and medications aren't tailored to each individual. That is why the Mindwell Test was created. The test provides individuals and healthcare providers with a more precise and comprehensive picture of a patient's profile. It also gives them a comprehensive list of FDA-approved medications and dosage guidelines that will be most effective for them. A Mindwell Test also assists individuals in avoiding medications that may have negative effects on their health or worsen their mental health condition. It also saves patients the agony of trial and error and medication switching. Patients can request a ClarityX test for medications for depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
There's no need to mince words: ClarityX sells one of the most expensive DNA testing kits on the market. The ClarityX Mindwell Test costs $399, and the ClarityX Max Rx Test costs $499. As if that weren't enough, their service is only available in the United States. Nonetheless, keep in mind that this is the only way to truly understand not only your health but also your mind, and it'll help you understand how your medications may affect your health.
Specifications
Types of tests
How DNA sample is obtained
DNA Kits
#6InsideTracker
Pros
- Offers both DNA and blood testing
- Peer-researched and evidence-based data
- Tests over 40 different biomarkers
- Comprehensive app for tracking
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- No health recommendations
- Accepts raw data from two companies only
InsideTracker was founded in 2009 in Boston and initially served professional athletes. The company now provides services to anyone, and they believe that health is an inside job, hence the name. You'll be able to optimize your body's functionality and reach your goals faster and more efficiently thanks to cutting-edge research in blood and genetic testing and personalized goal-setting.
InsideTracker's tests examine a variety of biomarkers related to diet, health, nutrition, and overall wellness. While its premium tests are designed for high-performance lifestyles, it also offers several options for those who are just beginning to take control of their health or want to track their progress. This test is comprehensive and ideal for those who require a large amount of data to make important health decisions. That is why it's a natural choice for athletes and other performance-oriented people.
Lab tests range in price from $119 to $589, with the option of including DNA insights, while a DNA kit costs $249. These prices are quite high, and unlike other companies, where tests are available globally, most services at InsideTracker are only available in North America. Furthermore, they only accept raw DNA data from two companies, which is a bit inconvenient. InsideTracker, on the other hand, allows you to digest and track all of the information you receive and is compatible with Apple, Garmin, and Fitbit wearables for even more personalized insights.
Specifications
Types of tests
How DNA sample is obtained
DNA Kits
23andMe | FamilyTreeDNA | SelfDecode | LivingDNA | ClarityX | InsideTracker | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Processing time | 3-4 Weeks | 2-8 Weeks | 1-2 Weeks | 6-8 Weeks | 7-10 Days | 4-6 Weeks |
Types of tests | ||||||
FamilyTreeDNA Test | ||||||
Y-DNA Test | ||||||
mtDNA Test | ||||||
Health Testing | ||||||
How DNA sample is obtained | ||||||
Saliva Sample | ||||||
Cheek swab Sample | ||||||
Feces Sample | ||||||
Family Tree Software | ||||||
Imports From Other Software | ||||||
Export Results |
DNA Testing Kits Can Help Give Insight Into Understanding Your Health
Not all DNA services are created equal. Some kits only test for paternity or STDs, whereas others look into ancestry and family history. Others, on the other hand, offer a wealth of health information that is always informative. DNA tests can reveal details about your health, including whether you are predisposed to certain diseases or conditions. Investing in a DNA test kit may be worthwhile, especially if you want to be proactive about your health.
In recent years, DNA testing kits have become more widely available and affordable. While the cost of a genetic test has decreased from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of dollars over the last two decades, it is still not inexpensive. The majority of people do not take genetic tests lightly. Nothing is more infuriating than spending hundreds of dollars only to find out that you are not receiving the information you expected or required.
Testing your DNA is one of the simplest and most exciting ways to take control of your health. This, however, comes at a cost. While the majority of comprehensive cheap DNA tests cost between $100 and $500, some companies that specialize in specific traits can sell their products for less than $100. To name a few topics, these DNA tests cover ancestry, health, exercise recommendations, and disease predisposition.
Keep in mind that not all information about your genetic code will be useful. Perhaps you want to know your genetic makeup in order to improve your life, whether to avoid predisposed sensitivities, accept genetic gifts, or use your genes to get in shape quickly. Knowing these things is beneficial, but it can also be restrictive at times. Knowing your genetic predisposition to high cholesterol is one thing; knowing what to do to maintain your health is another.
Not only is the information inherently personal, but it is also impossible to predict who will and will not be able to see and use that information in the future, including a series of high-profile data breaches at major corporations. As a result, every DNA testing comparison and review on 9Ranks meets or exceeds the bare minimum of basic security required to appear anywhere in our rankings.