Q: How do you test the iron levels in your blood at home?

Iron blood tests usually require a finger-prick blood spot sample, which is quick and painless. Some might also require a urine or stool sample, depending on the test you choose. Once you’ve taken your test, mail it back to the laboratory where your sample will be reviewed. After a few days, your report is usually ready.

Q: How long does an iron blood test take?

Usually, at-home iron blood test results take no more than a few days. In some cases, you can get your results less than 24 hours later. This is typically only for in-lab options, though, since at-home kits require you to mail your sample back before it’s reviewed.

Q: Do iron blood tests require fasting?

Yes, you usually have to fast before taking your iron test. Times vary but this is typically between 8-12 hours before taking your sample, so always check the kit instructions first. Most tests also advise that you take your sample first thing in the morning before 10 am for the most accurate results.

Q: How do you read iron blood test results?

Levels vary between men and women, with 13.5-17.5g/dL considered normal for males, and 12.0-15.5g/dL for females. Anything outside of these may indicate a deficiency or possible iron overload.

Q: Which FamilyTreeDNA Test is best?

That depends on what you’re looking to get from your results . To discover a breakdown of your ethnic and geographical ancestry, an insight into your ancient European ancestry, and DNA matches to find potential relatives, you’re sure to be satisfied with the Family Finder test. However, if you want a deeper insight into the migration patterns of your ancient ancestors and trace your maternal and paternal lineages all the way back to Africa, you may want to choose mtDNA and Y-DNA testing.

Q: Can 23andMe diagnose me with a disease?

No, 23andMe cannot detect or diagnose any health condition . The health report can tell you if you have specific gene variants that have been linked to an increased risk of developing certain conditions. It’s important to remember, that not all gene variants linked to genetic conditions are analyzed and lifestyle factors also play an important role in disease risk. The carrier status reports indicate if you possess gene variants linked to congenital conditions that could be passed on to your children if your partner is also a carrier. If you’re worried about your DNA results, or what they mean for your future health, consider discussing your results with a genetic counselor or your personal physician, who can help you better understand your risk.

Q: I’m interested in building a family tree, should I choose 23andMe or FamilyTreeDNA?

You can start building your family tree for free with both 23andMe and FamilyTreeDNA . Plus both companies allow you to link your DNA test to your tree and contact your DNA matches, which can help expand your tree beyond your own personal knowledge. So, if you’re an amateur genealogist, just looking to start on your family history, either provider is a good option. However, as you’re serious about building an extensive family tree that goes way beyond what you know, neither 23andMe nor FamilyTreeDNA is going to cut it as they don’t have databases of historical records or other premium genealogy features. Ancestry and MyHeritage not only offer great ancestry DNA tests but also have excellent family tree building software , which includes access to huge databases of historical records if you sign up for a paid subscription. Plus, you can test them out before making a commitment as they both offer free 14-day trials.

Question 1

How do you test the iron levels in your blood at home?

Accepted Answer

Iron blood tests usually require a finger-prick blood spot sample, which is quick and painless. Some might also require a urine or stool sample, depending on the test you choose.

Once you’ve taken your test, mail it back to the laboratory where your sample will be reviewed. After a few days, your report is usually ready.

Question 2

How long does an iron blood test take?

Accepted Answer

Usually, at-home iron blood test results take no more than a few days. In some cases, you can get your results less than 24 hours later. This is typically only for in-lab options, though, since at-home kits require you to mail your sample back before it’s reviewed.

Question 3

Do iron blood tests require fasting?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you usually have to fast before taking your iron test. Times vary but this is typically between 8-12 hours before taking your sample, so always check the kit instructions first.

Most tests also advise that you take your sample first thing in the morning before 10 am for the most accurate results.

Question 4

How do you read iron blood test results?

Accepted Answer

Levels vary between men and women, with 13.5-17.5g/dL considered normal for males, and 12.0-15.5g/dL for females. Anything outside of these may indicate a deficiency or possible iron overload.

Question 5

How long until you get your results from FamilyTreeDNA and 23andMe?

Accepted Answer

Your results from 23andMe should be ready in 4-6 weeks after the lab has received your samples. My results were ready in a little over five weeks, and I received updates on the progress of my kit throughout the testing process.

How long it takes to get your results from FamilyTreeDNA depends on which test you take. Family Finder results typically take between 2 to 4 weeks (mine arrived in just over 2 weeks), mtDNA results usually take between 6 to 8 weeks, and you can expect your Y-DNA results in 3 to 6 weeks with the exception of the Big Y-700 test, which takes 6-10 weeks.

Question 6

How accurate is 23andMe?

Accepted Answer

23andMe is confident it can determine your ancestry down to the 0.1 percent by comparing thousands of small segments of your DNA to huge reference populations with established ethnicity. The precise algorithm 23andMe uses is very accurate, but your ethnicity estimate is still just that, an estimate.

Question 7

Which FamilyTreeDNA Test is best?

Accepted Answer

That depends on what you’re looking to get from your results. To discover a breakdown of your ethnic and geographical ancestry, an insight into your ancient European ancestry, and DNA matches to find potential relatives, you’re sure to be satisfied with the Family Finder test.

However, if you want a deeper insight into the migration patterns of your ancient ancestors and trace your maternal and paternal lineages all the way back to Africa, you may want to choose mtDNA and Y-DNA testing.

Question 8

Can 23andMe diagnose me with a disease?

Accepted Answer

No, 23andMe cannot detect or diagnose any health condition. The health report can tell you if you have specific gene variants that have been linked to an increased risk of developing certain conditions. It’s important to remember, that not all gene variants linked to genetic conditions are analyzed and lifestyle factors also play an important role in disease risk.

The carrier status reports indicate if you possess gene variants linked to congenital conditions that could be passed on to your children if your partner is also a carrier.

If you’re worried about your DNA results, or what they mean for your future health, consider discussing your results with a genetic counselor or your personal physician, who can help you better understand your risk.

Question 9

Who should choose FamilyTreeDNA over 23andMe?

Accepted Answer

After weeks of research, I came to the conclusion that 23andMe has the better ancestry DNA testing, but for some FamilyTreeDNA may be a better fit.

If you want to learn about your family history and enjoy doing research in your spare time, then FamilyTreeDNA is a better fit for you over 23andMe. While 23andMe has more users, FamilyTreeDNA offers tools and resources a genealogist is likely going to value more.

FamilyTreeDNA has numerous projects you can work on with other members to discover details related to your surname or haplogroups. You can also link your DNA test results to a family tree and organize all your data in one visually appealing location.

Question 10

I&rsquo;m interested in building a family tree, should I choose 23andMe or FamilyTreeDNA?

Accepted Answer

You can start building your family tree for free with both 23andMe and FamilyTreeDNA. Plus both companies allow you to link your DNA test to your tree and contact your DNA matches, which can help expand your tree beyond your own personal knowledge. So, if you’re an amateur genealogist, just looking to start on your family history, either provider is a good option.

However, as you’re serious about building an extensive family tree that goes way beyond what you know, neither 23andMe nor FamilyTreeDNA is going to cut it as they don’t have databases of historical records or other premium genealogy features.

Ancestryand MyHeritage not only offer great ancestry DNA tests but also have excellent family tree building software, which includes access to huge databases of historical records if you sign up for a paid subscription. Plus, you can test them out before making a commitment as they both offer free 14-day trials.

Question 11

What are the symptoms of abnormal vitamin D levels?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin D is an essential micronutrient, which helps to keep your bones strong and healthy. Abnormal levels of vitamin D – either too much or too little – can lead to the following symptoms:

Muscle pain and/or weakness
Joint pain
Fatigue, lethargy, or feeling tired
Thinning hair
Mood changes

Question 12

Can an at-home vitamin test diagnose a medical condition?

Accepted Answer

No, an at-home vitamin test cannot diagnose you with any medical condition. They can give you an idea if you have a deficiency in certain vitamins, but they can’t tell you why or the underlying cause.

In your results report, you may also get some actionable insights into diet and lifestyle changes you can make, to improve and maintain your levels. However, if you’re worried about the cause of a deficiency, you should share your results with your healthcare provider who can organize further testing and treatment if necessary.

Question 13

Will insurance cover the cost of my at-home hormone test?

Accepted Answer

At-home hormone tests are not usually covered by your insurance, but it is still worth checking with your provider before ordering. However, a number of providers on this list, including Everlywell, accept FSA/HSA cards as a form of payment.

Question 14

How long does it take to get your vitamin test results?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the provider. With lab-testing companies, you can expect your test results in just a couple of days. Results from at-home vitamin test providers take a little longer, but usually, you&rsquo;ll receive them in 2 to 5 days.

Question 15

What are the common symptoms of a hormone imbalance?

Accepted Answer

Of course, the symptoms of a hormone imbalance will depend on which glands and hormones are affected. But generally speaking, the common signs of a hormone imbalance include:

Weight gain or loss
Changes in heart rate and/or blood pressure
Infertility or difficulty in conceiving
Mood swings and/or anxiety
Difficulty sleeping
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Sensitivity to temperature changes
Brittle and fragile bones
Reduced sex drive
Heavy, irregular, or painful periods.

Question 16

Can a hormone test diagnose you with a medical condition?

Accepted Answer

No, a hormone test cannot diagnose you with a medical condition. Your results will tell you how your current levels compare to average levels for your age. You may also get some insight into what your hormone levels may mean for you along with actionable insights into what you can do to maintain optimum levels.

To find the underlying cause of your potentially abnormal hormone imbalance, you should take your results to your healthcare provider.

Question 17

How do I take a hormone test at home?

Accepted Answer

It’s super easy to take a hormone test at home. In most cases, it involves a fingerprick blood sample, which is quick and completely painless.

For some tests, you may be required to provide a saliva swab or a urine sample, but they also take just a few minutes and detailed instructions will ensure you collect your sample correctly.

Question 18

Does insurance cover the cost of at-home hormone tests?

Accepted Answer

At-home hormone tests are not usually covered by insurance as they would be if you took them through your doctor. However, it’s always worth checking with your policy provider before ordering.

Don’t forget, a lot of companies – including LetsGetChecked – accept HSA/FSA cards, so you can cut the cost that way, even if you’re insurance won’t cover it.

Question 19

Does Living DNA offer any regular or special discounts?

Accepted Answer

Living DNA’s kits are very affordable compared to a lot of other tests out there. It does run some discounts to help you save even more money every now and again. Right now, all of its kits are discounted by up to 45%.

Question 20

How does Living DNA pricing compare to competitors?

Accepted Answer

In terms of both the insights it offers and its price tag, Living DNA’s wellbeing test is $20 cheaper than 23andMe’s health and ancestry kit. And 23andMe only touches on nutrition and exercise, which is Living DNA’s main focus. But you do get reports on your genetic predisposition and carrier status for certain conditions with 23andMe.

Living DNA’s ancestry test is more expensive than both MyHeritage and AncestryDNA, but you do get sub-regional origin mapping to over 100 subregions in Europe, Britain, and Africa. Though you don’t get a family tree builder, like with MyHeritage and AncestryDNA.

Question 21

Does Living DNA include shipping?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, no. Living DNA does not include shipping. 23andMe offers free shipping, so you could try that kit if you prefer. But a lack of free shipping isn’t uncommon in the DNA testing market, as AncestryDNA and MyHeritage don’t offer it either.

Question 22

Is there a subscription cost for Living DNA?

Accepted Answer

Living DNA doesn’t make you pay any ongoing subscription costs. You’d usually expect to pay this for family tree builders and genealogical research, like with AncestryDNA and MyHeritage, but this isn’t something Living DNA offers.

Question 23

What is a DNA kit?

Accepted Answer

A DNA kit is a testing kit that allows individuals to collect a sample of their DNA using a simple and painless process, usually through a cheek swab or saliva sample. The collected DNA is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results provide information about a person&rsquo;s ancestry, genetic traits, and potential health risks.

Question 24

How accurate are DNA kits?

Accepted Answer

The accuracy of DNA kits can differ based on the company and the type of analysis conducted. In general, reputable DNA testing companies offer reliable and accurate results. However, it&rsquo;s crucial to keep in mind that while ancestry-related information is generally dependable, health-related data should be interpreted cautiously and verified by healthcare professionals.

Question 25

What can DNA kits reveal?

Accepted Answer

DNA kits can reveal a range of information about an individual. Ancestry DNA tests can provide insights into a person&rsquo;s ethnic origins, regional heritage, and even identify potential relatives. Some DNA kits also offer health-related information, such as carrier status for certain genetic conditions, predispositions to diseases, or traits like lactose intolerance or hair color.

Question 26

Are DNA kits private and secure?

Accepted Answer

Privacy and security are important concerns when it comes to DNA kits. Reputable DNA testing companies have privacy policies in place to protect customers&rsquo; data and typically allow individuals to control the sharing of their genetic information. However, it&rsquo;s crucial to carefully review the company&rsquo;s policies and understand how your data will be used before using a DNA kit.

Question 27

Can DNA kits be used for paternity testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, DNA kits can be used for paternity testing. There are specific DNA testing kits designed for paternity and relationship testing purposes. These kits compare the genetic information between the alleged father, child, and, if available, the mother, to determine the likelihood of a biological relationship.

Question 28

How long does it take to get DNA kit results?

Accepted Answer

The turnaround time for DNA kit results varies between different companies and the type of analysis being conducted. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months to receive your results. However, some companies offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which can provide results in a shorter time frame. It&rsquo;s important to check the specific company&rsquo;s website or contact their customer support for the most accurate information regarding result timelines.

Question 29

What are the symptoms of high and low testosterone?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining a normal level of testosterone is essential for your health and wellness, playing a key role in fertility, bone health and density, mood, and more. If your level of testosterone is abnormal, it can have a significant impact on your physical and mental wellbeing.

Symptoms of high testosterone levels in males include:

Acne
Infertility
Mood swings
Aggressive behavior
Excessive body hair
Higher than the usual sex drive
High blood pressure

Symptoms of low testosterone levels in males include:

Weight gain
Loss of muscles mass
Low sex drive
Lethargy
Mood swings
Reduced testicle size
Problems sleeping
Loss of body hair

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or are concerned about your testosterone levels and are hoping to start a family, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Question 30

Can women take a testosterone test?

Accepted Answer

Although testosterone is usually thought of as a ‘male hormone’, it’s also vital for women as well, just not at the same levels. In women, testosterone plays a key role in the maintenance and growth of bones, increasing muscle mass and decreasing body fat, the menstrual cycle, and maintaining a healthy sex drive, as well as potentially supporting cardiovascular health.

So, yes women can and should take a testosterone test if they are concerned that their testosterone levels are outside the normal range.

Symptoms of low testosterone in women include sexual dysfunction, thinning hair, drying skin, a loss in muscle mass, increase in body fat, and mood changes. High testosterone in women can cause excess acne, abnormal body hair growth, smaller breasts, menstrual irregularities, deeper voice, and easy weight gain.

Question 31

What are normal testosterone levels?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, blood testosterone levels are measured as ng/dl, and the normal ranges for adults are detailed in the table below.

Age	Males (ng/dl)	Females (ng/dl)
17-18 years	300 – 1200	20 – 75
19+ years	240 – 950	8 – 60

If you’re taking a saliva test – like that from Everlywell – your testosterone level is likely to be measured as pg/ml and for comparison, 1ng/dl = 10pg/ml.

People will have different levels of testosterone within this healthy range depending on age, weight, and other lifestyle factors. If you’re concerned about the results of your testosterone test, it’s advised that you discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Question 32

Who should get a testosterone test?

Accepted Answer

An at-home or lab-based testosterone test is the first step in understanding why you may be experiencing the symptoms of abnormal levels of the hormone. You can take the results of your testosterone test to your healthcare provider who can help determine if health issues, underlying conditions, or lifestyle choices are influencing your testosterone production.

Question 33

What is the difference between blood and saliva testosterone tests?

Accepted Answer

The main difference in blood and saliva tests is the type of testosterone that&rsquo;s measured. A saliva test measures your level of free testosterone i.e. the testosterone that isn&rsquo;t bound to proteins. A blood test measure total testosterone, which is both the free and bound hormone.

Question 34

How accurate are the results from MyHeritage?

Accepted Answer

The MyHeritage ancestry test compares your DNA to 42 different reference populations from 2,100+ regions to estimate your ethical and geographical origins. Therefore, while some populations may not be as well represented as others, you can still expect an accurate ethnicity estimate.

Question 35

How long does it take to receive my MyHeritage Ancestry results?

Accepted Answer

You can expect to receive your results four to six weeks after the lab has received your sample, but it may be quicker, depending on how busy the lab is. If you want faster results, 23andMe’s are generally delivers in just two to three weeks.

Question 36

Does MyHeritage cover the cost of shipping?

Accepted Answer

MyHeritage DNA covers the cost of sending you your test kit, but you must pay the return postage for mailing your sample back.

Question 37

How expensive is MyHeritage compared to competitors?

Accepted Answer

MyHeritage DNA’s tests start at $89.00 are consistently less expensive than those of its chief competitors, 23andMe, starting at $99.00 and AncestryDNA, starting at $99.00.

Question 38

What sort of subscription plans does MyHeritage offer?

Accepted Answer

MyHeritage’s genealogy service is available in several tiers. Its Basic service is free, but only allows you to add 250 people to your family tree, and doesn’t let you add Smart Matches from the company’s historical records database to your tree.

The Premium subscription can accommodate 2,500 family members, and includes Smart Matches, as does its PremiumPlus subscription, which can accommodate a family tree of unlimited size.

Then there is a Historical Record Data plan that is limited to 250 people, like the basic service, but lets you access the company’s entire 12 + billion record database of historical data. And finally, the Complete package is limitless both in how many people your family tree can accommodate, and how many historical records you may access.

MyHeritage also offers a Health subscription that updates your DNA findings to reflect new health reports as they become available.

Question 39

Do the MyHeritage at-home DNA test kits ever go on sale?

Accepted Answer

MyHeritage regularly offers special discounts and deals throughout the year. You can also always find up-to-date coupon codes for MyHeritage’s test kits on our coupons page.

Question 40

How accurate are the results from 23andMe?

Accepted Answer

The ancestry insights from 23andMe are extremely accurate, as they compare your DNA sample to more than 1,500+ geographical reference populations to pinpoint your ethnic and geographical origins.

23andMe’s health test screens your DNA for genetic markers that are linked to certain diseases and congenital conditions. While the analysis of these markers is accurate, the presence of a marker doesn’t mean you will get the associated disease. Rather, it gives you an idea of your level of risk. If you are concerned, discuss your results with your doctor.

Question 41

Is a 23andMe DNA test right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you’re really interested in your ancestry 23andMe provides insights that other leading vendors, like Ancestry and MyHeritage, don’t, such as the ancestry of your maternal and paternal lines, and whether you’re descended from Neanderthals.

Its health test also provides excellent value-for-money for those wanting an overall analysis of their disease risk and carrier status. But the insights don’t stop there, you also get trait reports on how your DNA may affect your sleep, exercise, diet, and much more.

Question 42

How long does it take to receive my 23andMe results?

Accepted Answer

Your results are usually delivered within two to three weeks of the lab receiving your DNA samples, which is quicker than most other leading providers. For instance, AncestryDNA&rsquo;s results take between four and six weeks, and MyHeritage takes around three to four weeks from receiving your sample.

Question 43

Can 23andMe diagnose you with a disease?

Accepted Answer

The 23andMe health DNA test cannot detect or diagnose any diseases. It instead tells you if you have any of the genetic markers associated with certain diseases or if you&rsquo;re a carrier for congenital conditions that you may pass on to your offspring.

Question 44

Does 23andMe offer any regular or special discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes! 23andMe has regular special offers, sales, and discounts throughout the year. Check out our 23andMe coupon page to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Question 45

Is there a subscription cost for 23andMe?

Accepted Answer

No, unlike other vendors like MyHeritage and AncestryDNA, which offer services like relative-matching and family tree building.

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