Telomere Testing
The trend for genetic testing is fast growing as the notion that you can readily access critical information that can help treat or prevent serious illness becomes more widely recognised.
At Wimpole Aesthetics we believe strongly in the principles of functional medicine; the practice of promoting good, long-term health and addressing the underlying causes of disease, rather than just managing the symptoms. Functional medicine can be proactive and address susceptibility to certain health concerns, which is where genetic testing plays an important role. Telomere testing is the latest genetic test we offer our patients at our central London clinic.
Our chromosomes are basically the building blocks of life; inside every cell in our body is a chromosome, a long chain of unique DNA code that instructs how that cell will develop, reproduce and eventually die.
What are telomeres?
Telomeres are DNA buffers at the end of our chromosomes that protect them from deteriorating; they have been likened to the plastic caps at the end of shoelaces to stop them unravelling. It is the length of the telomeres which is so crucial to determine; each time your cell replicates, the telomere becomes shorter and when it reaches a certain length, the cell can no longer divide and will eventually die.
Your telomeres can therefore be used as a marker in determining your genetic age and it is proven that negative lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcoholic consumption, stress and exercise or the lack of it, all have a profound impact on the length of your telomeres.
What is Telomere Testing?
Telomere Testing is a simple blood test that is used to measure you telomeres. We use the UK’s leading genetic testing laboratory and the tests are 95% accurate.
You are then provided with a comprehensive report which shows whether your telomeres are very long, long, normal, short or very short. What sets this test apart is that the percentage of short telomeres is also recorded and you can see whether that percentage is either very low through to very high.
These results are analysed specific to your age and gender and an estimation of your biological age is included.
Why choose Wimpole Aesthetics for your Telomere Testing?
If you have received your Telomere Testing report and either because you are satisfied with your determined genetic age and want to continue the good work or, alternatively, you are unhappy with the results, then at Wimpole Aesthetics we can help.
Trial experiments have been carried out to see whether it is possible to lengthen telomeres by adopting healthier lifestyle choices and results indicate that this can have an impact.
Our Functional Medical Service is led by nutritional therapist Melissa Cohen. She can help extend the lifespan of your cells, by recommending a nutritional and supplemental plan that works to promote and protect your telomeres.
How much does Telomere Testing cost?
Your Telomere Test will cost POA. This includes a session with Melissa to discuss your results.
For more information on Telomere Testing and our Functional Medicine service, call 020 7224 2247 to speak to one of the team or book a consultation with Melissa.
