Is Genetic Testing Relevant To Candida Infections?

by Eric Bakker N.D.

I don’t recommend genetic testing as part of a Candida work-up. Although genetic testing has its uses, it’s still in its infancy. Looking at SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) or small pieces of DNA only gives us one part of the puzzle. Although scientists have mapped out the whole genome, tests can’t yet identify the genes linked to most diseases and health conditions.

Genetic testing only gives you part of the information that is relevant to your health. It doesn’t speak to your lifestyle or your habits. For example, your genes may indicate a low risk of lung cancer, but what if you are smoking 30 to 40 cigarettes a day while living a stressful life? Now, you may very well be a sitting duck for cancer.

There is also evidence that genes are in constant flux. They are influenced by a host of emotional and physical factors. Humans are incredibly complicated beings with genetics that are not static. Our genes are influenced both by factors we can control and by factors that are outside of our control.

Get genetic testing done if it suits you, but genetic testing is not for me. I’m glad I’m not living in a time where everything is governed by gene testing. I can see that coming, years from now.

Further readings:

At present, I can’t see genetic testing being relevant to Candida infections. I consider Candida overgrowth to be very much lifestyle-based. The stronger your body, the more it can resist Candida, bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections.

Remember one of my favorite sayings, “People don’t decide on their future, they decide on their habits. The habits will decide on the future for that person.” Try to cultivate good habits in your life and throw the gene testing in the bin. That’s my 10 cents worth.

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About Eric Bakker N.D.

Eric Bakker ND has completed almost ten years of study and has almost almost 25 years of clinical experience in natural and integrative forms of medicine, and has pursued continuous post-graduate study in Australia, America, India as well as in New Zealand.

Eric is the past Vice President of the NZ Natural Medicine Association and is currently on their editorial advisory board.