The information we share is for educational purposes and should not be treated as medical advice.

Summary

• Nutrigenomics studies how genes influence nutrient metabolism and how nutrition can affect gene expression, helping personalize dietary and supplement choices.
• Personalized nutrition recognizes that each person with ALS has unique genetics, digestion, nutrient absorption, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposures, so no single diet works for everyone.
• A whole-food, nutrient-dense diet should form the foundation, emphasizing healthy fats, high-quality proteins, colorful vegetables, low-glycemic fruits, herbs, and spices.
• Targeted supplements may help address individual nutrient deficiencies or increased demands but should be selected based on personal biology rather than general recommendations.
• Nutrients support essential biochemical pathways, including mitochondrial energy production, methylation, detoxification, glutathione production, inflammation regulation, and oxidative stress defense.
• Genetics are not destiny—healthy lifestyle choices, including nutrition, sleep, stress management, and physical activity, can positively influence gene expression.
• Nutrigenomic testing identifies genetic variations (SNPs) that affect nutrient processing, methylation, detoxification, inflammation, and cellular repair, enabling more individualized care.
• For people with ALS, personalized nutrition may help support motor neuron health, mitochondrial function, detoxification, cellular communication, and healthy autophagy while reducing inflammation.
• Four leading genomic laboratories—3X4 Blueprint, LifeCode GX, Nutrigenomix, and DNAlife—offer different strengths, including pathway analysis, evidence-based recommendations, specialized testing, and personalized supplement formulation.
• The goal is to create an individualized nutrition and supplement plan based on biological pathways rather than isolated genes, providing targeted support to optimize cellular health, resilience, and overall wellness.

Using Whole Foods and Targeted Supplements to Support Your Unique Biology

Nutrigenomics is the study of how your genes influence the way your body responds to nutrients and how nutrition can affect gene expression. Understanding your unique biology can help you make more informed dietary and supplement choices.

Why Personalized Nutrition Matters

• Every person with ALS has a unique nutritional and biochemical profile.
• There is no single diet or supplement protocol that works for everyone.
• Differences in genetics, digestion, nutrient absorption, gut health, medications, environmental exposures, and lifestyle can influence nutritional needs.
• Personalized nutrition focuses on identifying what your body needs to function as efficiently as possible rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Understanding Nutrigenomics

• Nutrigenomics is the study of how nutrients interact with genes and influence gene expression.
• Small genetic variations called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can affect how the body:
  • Uses vitamins and minerals
  • Produces energy
  • Detoxifies harmful substances
  • Manages inflammation
  • Repairs cells
  • Protects against oxidative stress
• These differences may explain why one person benefits from a particular supplement while another experiences little or no effect.

Food First: Building a Nutrient-Dense Diet

A whole-food diet provides the foundation for personalized nutrition by supplying vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, protein, antioxidants, and phytonutrients.

Healthy fats

• Fatty grass-fed meats
• Avocados
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Coconut
• Nuts and seeds

High-quality protein

• Grass-fed meats
• Wild-caught fish
• Pastured poultry
• Eggs
• Legumes, if tolerated

Colorful vegetables if tolerated

• Leafy greens
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Bell peppers
• Carrots
• Beets

Antioxidant-rich low glycemic fruits

• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Blackberries
• Cherries
• Pomegranate

Herbs and spices

• Turmeric
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Rosemary
• Oregano

Targeted Supplement Support

Whole foods should provide the nutritional foundation, while supplements can help address specific deficiencies or increased nutritional demands.

Depending on individual needs, healthcare providers may recommend nutrients such as:

• B vitamins
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin K2
• Magnesium
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Zinc
• Selenium
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Coenzyme Q10
• N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
• Alpha-lipoic acid
• Curcumin
• Glutathione-supporting nutrients
• Nrf2-activating compounds that help support the body’s natural antioxidant defenses

Supplements should be selected based on an individual’s unique biology rather than taken simply because they helped someone else.

Supporting the Body’s Biochemical Pathways

The body functions through thousands of interconnected biochemical reactions. Nutrients act as cofactors that allow these pathways to work efficiently.

Important systems include:

• Mitochondrial energy production
• Methylation
• Detoxification
• Glutathione production
• Oxidative stress defense
• Inflammatory regulation
• Neurotransmitter balance

When one pathway is compromised, supporting it nutritionally may improve the function of related systems.

Genetics Are Not Destiny

Genetic variations may increase susceptibility to certain challenges, but they do not determine outcomes. Lifestyle choices—including nutrition, sleep, physical activity, stress management, reducing environmental toxins, and appropriate supplementation—can influence how genes are expressed.

Key Takeaway

The goal of personalized nutrition is not to find a single “magic” food or supplement, but to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. A diet centered on whole, nutrient-dense foods, combined with carefully selected supplements when appropriate, can help support healthy cellular function and create a stronger foundation for overall wellness. Personalized nutrition recognizes that every individual is different, making an individualized approach an important part of comprehensive health support.

Nutrigenomics Testing & Genomic Laboratory Comparison

What Nutrigenomics Testing Evaluates

• Inherited genetic variations (SNPs)
• Individual nutrient processing
• Physiological demands and nutrient requirements
• Personalized nutrition based on genetics

Why Genetic Variations Matter

Importance for ALS

• Support motor neuron health
• Improve mitochondrial function
• Enhance detoxification
• Protect nerve cells
• Maintain cellular communication
• Precision nutrition to improve function

Healthy Cell Function

• Goals of cellular health
  • Healthy autophagy
  • Removal of senescent (“zombie”) cells
  • Oxidative stress management
  • Proper methylation
  • Membrane integrity
  • Protein folding
  • DNA repair
  • Efficient energy production

Mitochondrial Function

• Distribution of mitochondria throughout the body
• High-energy tissues
  • Heart
  • Brain
  • Muscles
• Importance of supporting mitochondrial health
• Relationship between genetics and mitochondrial performance

Autophagy vs. Zombie Cells

• Healthy cellular recycling
• Consequences of impaired autophagy (zombie cell occur with impaired autophagy)
• Chronic inflammation
• Genetic variants influencing autophagy
• Nutritional support for healthy cell turnover

---

Premium Genomic Laboratories

A. 3X4 Blueprint

Background

• Founded by Dr. Yael Joffe
• Systems biology approach

Strengths

• Focus on pathways rather than individual genes
• Functional pathway scoring
• Excellent educational graphics
• Color-coded reports
• Easy prioritization of interventions

Major Report Features

• Oxidative stress pathways
• Nutrient metabolism
• Energy production
• Inflammation mapping
• Gene interaction stories
• Personalized nutrition planning

Why It Is Preferred

• Shows relationships between pathways
• Simplifies complex genetics
• Supports individualized treatment plans

---

B. LifeCode GX

Background

• Based in the United Kingdom

Strengths

• Deep pathway analysis
• Specialized reports

Specialized Panels

• Heavy metal susceptibility
• Mineral deficiencies
• Detoxification pathways
• Appetite regulation
• Stress response (HPA/HPG axis)
• Cortisol regulation

Additional Benefits

• Strong data privacy
• Environmental interaction analysis
• Useful supporting nutrient recommendations

---

C. Nutrigenomix

Background

• Developed through University of Toronto research

Strengths

• Evidence-based recommendations
• Supported by peer-reviewed clinical trials

Tests Include

• Caffeine metabolism
• Sodium sensitivity
• Choline requirements
• Nutrient metabolism

Best For

• Individuals wanting direct guidance
• Minimal practitioner interpretation

---

D. DNAlife

Primary Focus

• Customized supplementation

Features

• Analysis of 363+ genetic variants
• Personalized nutrient formulas
• Therapeutic recommendations
• Autoimmune panels
• Lifestyle recommendations

Clinical Use

• Advanced supplement personalization
• Individualized nutrient dosing

---

Comparison of the Four Laboratories

Nutrigenomix

• Most research-based
• Strongest scientific validation
• Conservative recommendations

3X4 Blueprint

• Best visualization
• Systems biology approach
• Excellent educational reports
• Practitioner favorite

LifeCode GX

• Most specialized pathway modules
• Strong environmental analysis
• Excellent for targeted investigations

DNAlife

• Best supplement customization
• Personalized nutrient formulations
• Extensive genetic analysis

---

Clinical Application

• Personalized nutrition
• Lifestyle modifications
• Targeted supplementation
• Long-term treatment planning
• Annual review (genes remain constant)

---

ALS Patient Benefits

• Precision nutrition
• Reduced inflammation
• Improved mitochondrial support
• Better detoxification
• Optimized methylation
• Enhanced cellular resilience
• More individualized treatment strategies

---

Discounted testing for ALS patients

• Laboratory discounts available for individuals diagnosed with ALS
• Selection of testing depends on patient goals
• Genomic testing helps personalize care rather than applying one-size-fits-all recommendations
• Emphasis on understanding biological pathways rather than isolated genetic variants
• To make apt with Dr Jen and get test (w/ discount) ordered, go to https://www.vitrywellness.com/pages/wellness-consultation-pricing and find the “ALS Nutrigenomics” package for $325. Click to book and get on her schedule. When you meet, she will help you pick a test and order it. There are discounts that put most of the tests between $270- 300. She will consult with you when results are in about 3 weeks regarding your results and give you a preliminary plan. So total cost will be $325 for consultation before and for a 1 hour consultation after to interpret the results, plus the cost of the test.
  Other ways to reach Dr. Vitry’s office: Info@vitrywellness.com. Ofc line: 504-777-5837

References

• Arslanbaeva, L., & Bisaglia, M. (2022). Activation of the Nrf2 Pathway as a Therapeutic Strategy for ALS Treatment. Molecules, 27(5), 1471. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27051471
• Ash, P. E. A., Dhawan, U., Boudeau, S., Lei, S., Carlomagno, Y., Knobel, M., AlMohanna, L. F. A., Boomhower, S. R., Newland, M. C., Sherr, D. H., & Wolozin, B. (2019). Heavy Metal Neurotoxicants Induce ALS-Linked TDP-43 Pathology.Toxicological Sciences, 167(1), 105–115. https://doi.org/10.1093/toxsci/kfy267
• Bedlack, R. S., Joyce, N., Carter, G. T., Pagononi, S., & Karam, C. (2015). Complementary and Alternative Therapies in ALS. Neurologic Clinics, 33(4), 909–936. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ncl.2015.07.008
• Bocca, B., Forte, G., Oggiano, R., Clemente, S., Asara, Y., Peruzzu, A., Farace, C.,Pala, S., Fois, A. G., Pirina, P., & Madeddu, R. (2015). Level of neurotoxic metals in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A population-based case–control study. Journal of the Neurological Sciences, 359(1), 11–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jns.2015.10.023
• Chagas Monteiro, K. L., dos Santos Alcântara, M. G., de Aquino, T. M., & Ferreira daSilva-Júnior, E. (2024). Insights on Natural Products Against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Current Neuropharmacology, 22(7), 1169–1188. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X22666231016153606
• Chakraborty, D. K., Roy, T., Ngo, S. T. T., Al-Chalabi, A., & Al Khleifat, A. (2026). Gut microbiota and ALS: Cause, consequence or correlation? – a systematic review. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 20. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2026.1774417
• Cho, H., & Shukla, S. (2020). Role of Edaravone as a Treatment Option for Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Pharmaceuticals, 14(1), 29. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph14010029
• Grad, L. I., Rouleau, G. A., Ravits, J., & Cashman, N. R. (2017). Clinical Spectrum of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine, 7(8), a024117. https://doi.org/10.1101/cshperspect.a024117
• Kiran. (2024, May 2). ALS Reversals—An update. MND Research Blog. https://mndresearch.blog/2024/05/02/als-reversals-an-update/
• Kurdi, M. A., Alotaibi, H., Alkhuraymi, A. T., Aldahery, L. N., Alhawaj, A. F., & Aldali, H. J.(2026). Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Genetics and Microbiota: A Comprehensive Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 27(4), 1978. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27041978
• Lee, A., Henderson, R., Aylward, J., & McCombe, P. (2024). Gut Symptoms, GutDysbiosis and Gut-Derived Toxins in ALS. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(3), 1871. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25031871
• Madruga, E., Maestro, I., & Martínez, A. (2021). Mitophagy Modulation, a New Player in the Race against ALS. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(2), 740. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22020740
• Newton, C. (2020). Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): The Application of Integrative and Functional Medical Nutrition Therapy (IFMNT). In D. Noland, J. A. Drisko, & L. Wagner (Eds.), Integrative and Functional Medical Nutrition Therapy: Principles and Practices (pp. 863–912). Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978- 3-030-30730-1_49
• Nieves, J. W., Gennings, C., Factor-Litvak, P., Hupf, J., Singleton, J., Sharf, V.,Oskarsson, B., Fernandes Filho, J. A. M., Sorenson, E. J., D’Amico, E., Goetz, R., Mitsumoto, H., & for the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Multicenter Cohort Study of Oxidative Stress (ALS COSMOS) Study Group. (2016). Association Between Dietary Intake and Function in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. JAMA Neurology, 73(12), 1425–1432. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaneurol.2016.3401
• Noland, D., Bergeron, R., & Syrow, L. (2025). Case Study on ALS Reversal: AnIntegrative Medicine Approach to Sporadic Limb-Onset ALS (P12-11.018). Neurology, 104(7_Supplement_1), 4240. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000211542
• Pamphlett, R., & Kum Jew, S. (2016). Age-Related Uptake of Heavy Metals in Human Spinal Interneurons. PLoS ONE, 11(9), e0162260. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0162260
• Pilotto, F., Smeele, P. H., Scheidegger, O., Diab, R., Schobesberger, M., Sierra-Delgado, J. A., & Saxena, S. (2025). Kaempferol enhances ER-mitochondria coupling and protects motor neurons from mitochondrial dysfunction and ER stress in C9ORF72-ALS. Acta Neuropathologica Communications, 13(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40478-025-01927-y
• Roggenbuck, J., Eubank, B. H. F., Wright, J., Harms, M. B., & Kolb, S. J. (2023). Evidence‐based consensus guidelines for ALS genetic testing and counseling. Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology, 10(11), 2074–2091. https://doi.org/10.1002/acn3.51895

• Sun, J., & Zhang, Y. (2024). Microbiome and micronutrient in ALS: From novel mechanisms to new treatments. Neurotherapeutics, 21(6), e00441. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00441
• Yao, S., Marron, M. M., Tian, Q., Watts, E. L., Clish, C. B., Shah, R. V., Murthy, V. L., & Newman, A. B. (2025). Metabolomic Pathways of Inflammation and Mitochondrial Dysfunction Are Related to Worsening Healthy Aging Index and Mortality. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 80(6), glaf057. https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glaf057

© Copyright Healing Advocates Registry and Ministry