SelfDecode is a company that specializes in genetic testing and analysis. They use artificial intelligence (AI), personal genetic data, and various research databases to provide insights into your wellness. Founded in 2016, SelfDecode aims to help individuals understand their genetic makeup and how it can influence their health.
For customers who choose their most comprehensive plans, SelfDecode provides over 200 analytical reports detailing genetic health and traits. Additionally, the company offers personalized recommendations based on scientific research and individual single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). For instance, if someone is at high risk for anxiety and has specific SNPs on the FAAH gene, SelfDecode might recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy as a potential intervention.
You May Also Like: 31 Frequently Asked Questions on Genetic Testing
SelfDecode also offers lab testing services through a program named SelfDecode Labs. This program allows individuals to monitor their health and receive guidance on addressing potential genetic concerns. Customers can upload existing DNA files or provide a new sample to SelfDecode. Furthermore, the company encourages customers to participate in health surveys, which aids their AI partner, Decody, in learning associations between lifestyle choices, genetic risks, and lab data to enhance personalized recommendations.
Upon receiving their genetic analysis, customers get an action plan tailored to their genetic makeup and current health status. This plan includes a Fitness and Nutrition report that outlines ideal diet and exercise routines based on genetic predispositions. Additionally, customers can opt into various programs such as health coaching, one-time genetic counseling, and personalized supplements at an extra cost.
For those who choose the more expensive Premium Insights plan, additional features become available, including access to SelfDecode’s blog SelfHacked, a comprehensive SNP database, a SNP & Gene Explorer tool, a one-on-one consultation with a health practitioner, and upcoming features such as Disease Predisposition Reports and Ancestry reports.
Your DNA is extracted from a saliva sample or you can upload your raw data from companies like 23andMe. This genetic information is then compared to extensive, scientifically vetted databases to identify the specific SNPs in your chromosomes. These SNPs help provide tailored health recommendations.
SelfDecode offers three different initial price plans with two main tiers: Health Insights and Premium Insights. Each of these provides access to various levels of information and programs. The differences and similarities between these two plans are detailed below.
| Health Insights | Premium Insights | |
| Cost (DNA upload) | $99 | N/A |
| Cost (with DNA kit) | $199 | $319 |
| Â | Health Insights | Premium Insights |
Genetic Testing and Sequencing | Yes | Yes |
Access to Health Reports | Limited | Full |
Personalized Health Recommendations | Yes | Yes |
Personalized Supplements | Yes | Yes |
SNP & Gene Explorer Tool | Yes | Yes |
Lab Analyzer Tool | Yes | Yes |
Access to SelfHacked & SelfHacker Reports | No | Yes |
One-on-one Consultation with a Health Practitioner | No | Yes |
Personalized blogs | No | Yes |
Disease Predisposition Reports | No | Yes (In development) |
Ancestry Reports | No | Yes |
Price (raw data upload) | $99 | – |
Price (with DNA Kit) | $199 | $319 |
| Â | Cost | Payment Frequency | Discounts |
Personalized supplements | $109+ | Monthly | Â |
Health coaching consultations | $199 | Monthly | One free with Premium Insights |
Genetic counseling | $149 | One-time | One free with Premium Insights |
SelfDecode Labs | $39-$1,250 | One-time | Subscription (12%-50%) |
To assist users in monitoring their phenotypes concerning their genetic risk factors, SelfDecode offers a range of blood tests through their storefront.
SelfDecode provides a total of 355 different tests that fall into three main categories:
For the lab tests and lab panels, individuals will need to visit a Quest Diagnostics laboratory.Â
SelfDecode offers different types of reports like Health reports, Disease reports, Trait reports, Biohacker reports, and Personalized blogs (SelfHacked).Â
Health Reports provide information about your health, including mental and physical aspects. This report can help you understand how your body processes micronutrients, your predisposition to health conditions, and other health-related traits. These reports, based on the analysis of specific genetic markers, are associated with particular health outcomes.
Brain
Anxiety, inflammation, stress, low mood, brain fog, attention, mood swings, psychological trauma, BDNF, addiction, alcohol addiction, tobacco addiction, DRD2 (dopamine), COMT (warrior versus worrier) obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and serotonin.
Heart & Blood Vessels
High blood sugar, heart health, high blood pressure, low blood pressure, high cholesterol, varicose veins, lipoprotein (a), palpitations, and artery hardening.
Hormones
An underactive thyroid, overactive thyroid, SHBG, testosterone, MDHEA, oxytocin, estradiol, and cortisol.
Gut Health
Irritable bowel syndrome, gallstones, gut inflammation, acid reflux. H. pylori infection, peptic ulcers, celiac disease, C. difficile infection, hemorrhoids, appendicitis, indigestion, gastrointestinal infection, gut microbiome diversity, constipation, and fatty liver.
Diet & Nutrition
There are too many to list individually here. But this category includes vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B7, B9, B12, C, D, E, and K; minerals (12); fats and fatty acids (11); amino acids and protein (16); food, mineral, and other allergies and sensitivities (12); MTHFR; CoQ10; carnitine; carbohydrates; and eating disorders.
Sleep
Insomnia, sleep quality, sleep apnea, deep sleep, and daytime sleepiness.
Bone, Joint, & Muscles
Joint pain, joint inflammation, bone health, gout, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Metabolic Health
Overweight, hypoglycemia, HbA1c, lactate, metabolic rate, longevity, insulin resistance, visceral fat, and ketone bodies.
Immune Function & Inflammation
Allergies, IL-6, IL-17, neutrophils, and yeast infection.
Kidneys & Urinary Tract
Kidney health, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, overactive bladder, and eGFR.
Respiratory Health
Asthma, lung health, and sinus congestion.
Reproductive Health
Sexual dysfunction, female infertility, PCOS, painful periods, endometriosis, menstrual cycle length, irregular periods, heavy periods, and uterine fibroids.
Blood
Bilirubin, ALT, creatinine kinase, platelets, alkaline phosphatase, red blood cells, white blood cells, eosinophils, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, hematocrit, ferritin, blood urea nitrogen, anemia, creatinine, total protein, albumin, uric acid, triglycerides, hemoglobin, AST, basophils, blood calcium, RDW, fasting glucose, MCHC, IGF-1, MCV, and monocytes.
Toxins
Arsenic, lead, mercury, air pollution sensitivity, mold sensitivity (airborne), and cadmium.
Skin
Psoriasis, acne, eczema, hives, rosacea, vitiligo, and heavy sweating.
Pain & Fatigue
Chronic pain, fatigue, shoulder and neck pain, migraines, headache, back pain, chronic Lyme, and restless legs.
Eyes, Ears, & Mouth
Tinnitus, gum disease, canker sores, cavities, vertigo, hearing loss, teeth grinding, and nearsightedness.
Traits ReportsTrait reports focus on observable physical or behavioral traits (phenotypes) like your reaction to caffeine, your likelihood of balding, and whether you perceive the taste of cilantro as soap-like. These reports explore the genetic basis of various traits and characteristics that may not have direct health implications but are part of what makes you unique.
Disease reports provide information on genetic predispositions to specific diseases. Before accessing these reports, users must agree with the SelfDecode terms of service. Customers should also agree to review the information in the report with the help of a doctor.
SelfDecode’s SelfHacked blog is an online resource that provides information and insights on a wide range of health and wellness topics, backed by scientific research. The blog covers a variety of subjects including genetics, health conditions, nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle interventions that can impact health and well-being.
The SelfHacked blog is designed to be a comprehensive resource that helps individuals understand the science behind different health-related topics and make informed decisions about their health. The articles are written by health and science professionals and are extensively researched to ensure accuracy and reliability.
The blog is part of the broader SelfDecode platform, which aims to empower individuals with personalized health insights based on their genetic data. Access to the SelfHacked blog is included in SelfDecode’s Premium Insights plan, providing users with an additional resource to help them understand their health and optimize their well-being.
The Lab Test Analyzer Tool allows users to input their lab test results and receive personalized interpretations based on their genetic data and the latest scientific research. This tool helps users understand what their lab test results mean for their health and provides actionable recommendations to improve or maintain optimal health. It can provide insights into nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and other health-related issues that may be identified through lab tests.
The SNP & Gene Explorer Tool is designed to help users explore their genetic data in-depth. SNPs are variations in a single base pair of DNA that can influence health, traits, and disease risk. The SNP & Gene Explorer Tool allows users to search for specific SNPs or genes, learn about their functions, and understand how they might impact their health. It provides detailed information on specific SNPs, including their associated health conditions, traits, and relevant scientific research. This tool is helpful for users interested in diving deep into their genetic data and learning more about how specific genetic variants may influence their health.
SelfDecode prioritizes customer privacy and security in its handling of genetic data. Here are some of the measures in place to protect users:
Overall, SelfDecode takes multiple steps to ensure the privacy and security of user data while providing users with complete control over their genetic information.
If your focus is more on your personal health aspects, LifeDNA might be a worthy alternative. We provide comprehensive health insights and actionable recommendations, offering a more holistic approach to DNA analysis.
LifeDNA has emerged as a prominent option for analyzing 23andMe raw data, owing to a combination of unique offerings and a commitment to personalized wellness. Here is why many regard LifeDNA as the best option for making the most of your 23andMe raw data:
Further, if you do not have 23andMe raw data, LifeDNA provides that too. Start your personalized wellness journey with LifeDNA’s state-of-the-art DNA kits here.
LifeDNA offers a basic DNA raw data analysis package to kickstart your journey. Users with raw data from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, etc., can access 120+ traits across Nutrition and Allergy, Vitamins and Supplements, Fitness, Sleep, and Skin.
*LifeDNA is not associated with the above company.
*Understanding your genetics can offer valuable insights into your well-being, but it is not deterministic. Your traits can be influenced by the complex interplay involving nature, lifestyle, family history, and others.
Our reports have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents on our website and our reports are for informational purposes only, and are not intended to diagnose any medical condition, replace the advice of a healthcare professional, or provide any medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with a healthcare professional before making any major lifestyle changes or if you have any other concerns about your results. The testimonials featured may have used more than one LifeDNA or LifeDNA vendors’ product or reports.
