Q: How does AncestryDNA pricing compare to competitors?

AncestryDNA pricing ( $99.00 ) is relatively similar to its two main competitors, MyHeritage ( $79.00 ) and 23andMe ( $99.00 ). AncestryDNA is easily worth the price because it offers extensive family tree building software and access to the world’s largest historical archives database . Plus, more people have taken the AncestryDNA test than any other at-home DNA test kit, so there is a lot of opportunity to connect with DNA matches. On the other hand, MyHeritage does cost less than AncestryDNA and still offers fantastic software .

Question 1

Does AncestryDNA offer any regular or special discounts?

Accepted Answer

AncestryDNA regularly goes on sale, and there are also special discounts, such as an AARP discount (up to 30% off). It’s also worth checking for coupon codes, which are frequently available. At DNAWeekly, we also keep track of all of the latest pricing and best deals, so you can be sure that you are getting your test kit at the absolute lowest price possible!

Question 2

Does AncestryDNA pricing change based on location?

Accepted Answer

AncestryDNA pricing does not change based on location for most options. For DNA testing in Mexico, Sweden, and Canada you are redirected to the AncestryDNA page from the USA to purchase a kit. In France and Italy, DNA testing through AncestryDNA is unavailable. However, in Germany there is an AncestryDNA test available for roughly $25 less than the price of the AncestryDNA test in the United States.

Because you are paying to access different records, the subscription cost for Family Tree Builder by Ancestry does vary by location.

Question 3

How does AncestryDNA pricing compare to competitors?

Accepted Answer

AncestryDNA pricing ($99.00) is relatively similar to its two main competitors, MyHeritage ($79.00) and 23andMe ($99.00). AncestryDNA is easily worth the price because it offers extensive family tree building software and access to the world’s largest historical archives database. Plus, more people have taken the AncestryDNA test than any other at-home DNA test kit, so there is a lot of opportunity to connect with DNA matches. On the other hand, MyHeritage does cost less than AncestryDNA and still offers fantastic software.

Question 4

Does AncestryDNA include shipping?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the pre-paid shipping label is included with your AncestryDNA test kit. Just collect and package your sample according to the directions, and drop the package in the mail!

Question 5

Is there a subscription cost for AncestryDNA?

Accepted Answer

Subscriptions from AncestryDNA are available but not required to receive your AncestryDNA test results. Subscriptions provide access to historical records and family tree services, and can be purchased on a monthly, semi-annual, or annual basis. There are different subscription membership levels depending on whether you want access to US-based or worldwide records.

Question 6

How does DNA affect weight and weight loss?

Accepted Answer

Some of the factors that affect your weight – including your appetite, fitness levels, and ability to lose weight and keep it off – are genetic. Being aware of these genetic predispositions may help you decide what type of weight management strategy is best suited to your goals.

With that said, biology is not destiny, and your genes are only part of the picture. Factors such as your eating habits, level of physical activity, and age also play a huge role in your weight. When you’re looking for an effective weight management strategy, you should take all of these factors into account – and consult with a doctor or nutritionist before embarking on any new diet program.

Question 7

How accurate are DNA weight loss kits?

Accepted Answer

A DNA test looks at specific genetic markers in your DNA that have been shown to be associated with various physical and physiological traits. DNA tests are able to interpret these markers pretty accurately and tell you what they mean. While no DNA test is 100% accurate, the companies listed here use the latest science and accredited labs.

Question 8

What sort of things do DNA weight loss kits measure?

Accepted Answer

DNA weight loss kits can explore factors such as the speed of your metabolism, your genetic likelihood of being overweight, whether you&rsquo;re genetically predisposed to experience food cravings, and how quickly you may regain weight after weight loss. The reports can also give you insights into how your body responds to exercise and whether you could potentially have a vitamin deficiency.

Question 9

What is the best DNA weight loss kit?

Accepted Answer

There are many DNA tests available to facilitate weight loss. The one that works best for you will depend on your personal preferences and goals. All of the tests on this list meet our high expectations for accuracy, thoroughness, and actionable insight.

That said, here are some of our top recommendations:

If you are looking to address both your nutrition and exercise routine in order to shed some pounds, you should consider Living DNA, which provides a number of diet and fitness reports.
If you have specific questions you want answered (or want to stick to a strict budget), check out Orig3n, since there are many specialized tests to choose from.
If you are looking to address your weight solely from a nutrition standpoint, you should consider GenoPalate, which provides an extensive list of the best foods for your genetics.

Question 10

Does insurance cover the cost of DNA weight loss kits?

Accepted Answer

Insurance does not typically cover the cost of DNA weight loss test kits. Nor should the findings and recommendations be used in place of a legitimate medical opinion. That said, you should get in touch with your insurance provider to fully understand your options.

Question 11

Does Living DNA offer any regular or special discounts?

Accepted Answer

Living DNA’s pricing is pretty affordable in comparison to a lot of vendors out there. However, if you’re still looking for additional discounts, you probably won’t find them on the website (I took a hard look over and over again, but didn’t see anything). DNAWeekly provides regular updates on available discounts for all of the best at-home DNA testing services.

Question 12

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 & Ancestry Kit” is very similar to 23andMe’s “Health + Ancestry” product. Keep in mind, though, that 23andMe only touches on nutrition and exercise, which is Living DNA’s main focus. You’ll also get reports on your genetic predisposition and carrier status for certain conditions with 23andMe.

This bundled package from Living DNA is considerably more expensive than AncestryDNA’s corresponding “AncestryHealth” package. While AncestryDNA’s value is in its DNA and historical records databases, you won’t get anywhere near the same level of diet and fitness insights as you do with Living DNA.

When compared to MyHeritage’s “DNA Health Kit,” which offers both ancestry and health screening results, Living DNA’s own product is slightly cheaper, depending on whether or not MyHeritage is offering any discounts at the time.

Question 13

Does Living DNA include shipping?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, no. At the time of writing, Living DNA does not include shipping. 23andMe does, so if that’s really important to you, then that would be the vendor to go with. But a lack of free shipping isn’t uncommon in the DNA testing market, as AncestryDNA and MyHeritage don’t offer it either.

Question 14

Is there a subscription cost for Living DNA?

Accepted Answer

Living DNA doesn’t make you pay any ongoing subscription costs. Some of the other big names on the market (AncestryDNA and MyHeritage) do offer a subscription model. In the case of these two competitors, a subscription allows you to access a wealth of historical records for genealogical research for, among other things, growing your family tree. This isn’t a feature that Living DNA offers.

Question 15

Are Lyme disease tests accurate?

Accepted Answer

As far as Lyme disease test accuracy goes, if you take a test around six weeks after a tick bite that presents with suspected symptoms, it may detect an immune response to a Lyme borreliosis infection. It is typically discovered through the immunoglobulins (antibodies) IgG and IgM. This is what at-home tests check for.

Important Note: Some people may get a false negative if a test is taken too soon after possible infection.

If you test positive (or even if you don’t), you should follow up with your doctor for further testing that can help confirm an accurate diagnosis – this is the only way to ensure you receive the correct treatment.

Question 16

Is Lyme disease curable?

Accepted Answer

Lyme disease can be fully cured in most patients, but it depends on how soon it’s detected and treated, and how much bacteria has spread throughout your body prior to diagnosis. In more severe or chronic cases, some patients may face months, years, or even a lifetime of Lyme disease-related health issues.

Question 17

How is Lyme disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment depends on the severity of your infection, but typically a doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics. With long-term cases, you may end up needing additional symptom management through physical therapy, diet modifications, and IV antibiotic treatments.

Question 18

Are at-home Lyme disease tests reliable?

Accepted Answer

As mentioned before, an at-home test can be reliable, but the symptoms for Lyme disease can also mimic other health conditions such as the flu, chronic fatigue, or fibromyalgia. If you know (or strongly suspect) you were recently bitten by a tick and start to develop symptoms, you’ll need to wait until the six-week mark before you take an at-home test. You may even be able to test for Lyme disease years later.

Again, while at-home tests can indicate a potential problem, the only way to be absolutely sure is to follow up with your doctor for a full panel of tests.

Question 19

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?

Accepted Answer

Some of the most common symptoms of Lyme disease include:

A bulls-eye rash around the tick bite site
Swollen lymph nodes
Severe fatigue
Body aches
Headaches
Vision changes
Vertigo (dizziness/balance issues)
Memory issues
Heart palpitations
Weakness in the arms and legs
Facial paralysis
Sleep disturbances

Question 20

Where does Lyme disease affect the body?

Accepted Answer

Lyme disease affects the nervous system. However, as indicated by the list of symptoms, it is often felt throughout the body, especially the brain, heart, muscles, and joints. Different people will often experience different combinations of symptoms.

Question 21

Are DNA nutrition tests worth it?

Accepted Answer

DNA nutrition tests are worth it for people looking to learn more about nutrition and healthy eating habits. Scientific studies have shown that eating a DNA-determined diet rather than a generic healthy diet does provide some advantages. However, as always, your behavior and habits will make the biggest difference in your long-term health.

Question 22

What is the connection between DNA and nutrition?

Accepted Answer

DNA and nutrition are connected because certain gene variants affect the way your body processes foods and substances. For example, lactose intolerance, and alcohol and caffeine metabolism are genetically determined.

Question 23

Do nutritionists recommend following a DNA diet plan?

Accepted Answer

It differs from nutritionist to nutritionist. Many founders of nutrigenomics companies, and a significant number of their staff, are typically Registered Dietitians with at least a Bachelor&rsquo;s degree in nutrition. Many Nutrition DNA companies also offer special programs for health professionals to use the DNA test kits in their practices.

Question 24

Can I take my DNA nutrition results to a nutritionist?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It&rsquo;s a good idea to take your at-home DNA test kit results to a licensed healthcare professional before making any dramatic changes to your diet and lifestyle. But be careful first to choose a nutritionist who enjoys working with this kind of information.

Question 25

What information will a personalized nutrition DNA test tell me?

Accepted Answer

A personalized nutrition test will provide you with several important pieces of information for devising your optimal diet:

The right portions of fat, carbohydrates, and proteins to include in your meals
A detailed nutrient report that details predispositions to vitamin deficiencies and suggests ideal amounts of micronutrients
A substance metabolism report that shows how well you will metabolize caffeine, alcohol, and other substances
A food sensitivity report that identifies lactose intolerance, cilantro aversion, bitter taste, and other things

Question 26

Which vendor is less expensive: Living DNA or AncestryDNA?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, both companies are similarly priced. Living DNA does tend to be slightly less expensive with sales or promotional pricing. Keep in mind, with Living DNA you won’t have the opportunity to build a family tree, but you will get more information about your ancient ancestry. If you are particularly interested in building a family tree or accessing AncestryDNA’s huge genealogy database, you will have to pay an additional subscription fee.

Question 27

Who should choose Living DNA over AncestryDNA?

Accepted Answer

If you have ancestors from Africa, Germany, or the British Isles, you may want to choose Living DNA over AncestryDNA, since Living DNA specializes in these areas. For example, Living DNA has 72 African sub-regions while AncestryDNA only has nine. Living DNA also has 21 sub-regions just from the British Isles. The other big reason to consider Living DNA is if you are particularly interested in exploring your ancient ancestry and learning about your haplogroups.

Question 28

Who should choose AncestryDNA over Living DNA?

Accepted Answer

If you are interested in building a family tree you should choose AncestryDNA over Living DNA. Living DNA does not offer a family tree building option. Other reasons people may favor AncestryDNA include access to the massive historical archives and DNA matching databases. However, keep in mind that not all of these services are included with a DNA testing kit, you may have to pay a subscription fee if you want full access to these offerings.

Question 29

What features does Living DNA provide that AncestryDNA does not?

Accepted Answer

Living DNA provides haplogroup assignments as well as maternal and paternal lineage testing. Living DNA is able to provide this information because of it’s 3-in-1 DNA test that analyzes autosomal, Y-, and mt-DNA. For comparison, AncestryDNA only tests autosomal DNA, and does not provide haplogroup, maternal, or paternal lineage information.

Question 30

What features does AncestryDNA provide that Living DNA does not?

Accepted Answer

AncestryDNA provides extensive family tree building software and maintains the world’s largest historical database. These features help bring your family history to life and connect you with relatives. For comparison, Living DNA does not offer family tree building options and does not maintain a historical database.

Question 31

Which thyroid test is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Many at-home thyroid tests provide accurate results that are physician reviewed. In particular, EverlyWell and LetsGetChecked offer highly accurate thyroid tests.

Question 32

What sort of preparation needs to be done for thyroid testing?

Accepted Answer

Fortunately, a thyroid blood test does not require much preparation. If you are on a thyroid prescription medication, it is important that you take your medication accurately (30-60 min before breakfast on an empty stomach)  and consistently (everyday) for at least two weeks before checking your thyroid levels. That&rsquo;s also true if your dose changes.

Question 33

What are normal thyroid test results?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid test results (especially for medication adjustments) usually include three main readings:

Thyroid Stimulating Horomone (TSH) – this shows the strength of the signal your brain is sending to produce more thyroid hormone. The normal range for TSH is 0.27 – 4.2 mlU/L; although many endocrinologists recommend targeting TSH values of <2.0 mlU/L if you are taking synthetic thyroid hormone (aka thyroid meds).
- HIGH values mean a STRONG brain signal to the Thyroid Gland, and NOT ENOUGH thyroid hormone (T3/T4).
- LOW values mean a WEAK brain signal to the Thyroid Gland and TOO MUCH thyroid hormone.
Triiodothyronine (T3) – is a thyroid hormone that gets released into your bloodstream to help control metabolism. A high level of T3 might help confirm a hyperthyroidism diagnosis if T4 is normal. The standard range for serum T3 levels is 1.1-3.0 nmol/L).
Thyroxine (T4) – is also a thyroid hormone that gets released into your bloodstream. Other medical factors (pregnancy, asthma medication, etc) can affect normal levels of T4. But, usually the standard range is <60-145 mmol/L.
- Sometimes Free T4 is also tested because the values are unaffected by binding proteins.

Question 34

What sorts of issues can a thyroid test detect?

Accepted Answer

A thyroid test can detect a variety of endocrine conditions. Simply put, the thyroid test can detect whether your body has enough thyroid hormone, and if the signal to produce thyroid hormone is the appropriate strength.

Too little thyroid function is called hypothyroidism. It’s most common in post-menopausal women and people with the autoimmune disease, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. In this instance your TSH reading would be too high – your brain is screaming to make more Thyroid Hormone, but not enough is produced.
Too much thyroid function is called hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is commonly associated with Grave’s disease, another autoimmune thyroid condition.
Thyroid antibody production can indicate an autoimmune disorder. Certain thyroid tests like Everlywell’s or LetsGetChecked also test for thyroid antibody production.

Question 35

How do you know if you should take a thyroid test?

Accepted Answer

There are several reasons you might decide to take a thyroid test. A few common reasons include:

If you are experiencing symptoms related to thyroid dysfunction.
If thyroid cancer has occurred in your family
If family members have other thyroid conditions, such as Hashimoto’s or Grave’s disease.

Question 36

How accurate are at-home cholesterol tests?

Accepted Answer

An at-home cholesterol test may or may not be as accurate as what a doctor can offer. Accuracy can vary depending on the brand. It’s important to note that a test can measure the amount of cholesterol you have, but it doesn’t always give a complete picture. Other factors such as smoking and high blood pressure also play roles in determining your heart’s condition, which a doctor will take into consideration.

Question 37

What sort of things can affect your cholesterol test results? (e.g., caffeine, fasting, alcohol, etc.)

Accepted Answer

There are foods and lifestyle factors that can influence your cholesterol levels. Foods such as cheeseburgers and fatty cuts of mean that have high saturated fat can raise cholesterol, along with high trans fat in others such as crackers and chips. Even egg yolks can raise your cholesterol levels. Aside from what you eat, smoking also lowers the amount of HDL cholesterol in your blood, which is useful for protecting you from heart disease.

Question 38

What can taking a cholesterol test tell you about your personal health?

Accepted Answer

While an at-home test can’t replace a doctor’s visit, it can at least give you an idea of where your cholesterol health stands. The results you receive from an at-home cholesterol test can indicate whether you need to start making lifestyle choices right away or if you need an appointment with your doctor. The most important thing you can do is get your cholesterol checked on a regular basis. An at-home cholesterol test offers convenience and flexibility without interrupting your regular routine.

Question 39

What do normal cholesterol test results look like?

Accepted Answer

Many at-home cholesterol tests look at specific genes linked to familial hypercholesterolemia (or FH). Those with FH are at a greater risk of developing heart disease.

In your results, testing companies will often report on the number of genetic variants it finds linked to FH from your sample. Depending on the lab’s findings, the company may recommend extra measures you can take to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Some companies also provide access to a genetic counselor who can help interpret your results for you in case you have any questions.

Question 40

Who should consider taking an at-home cholesterol test? (And how often?)

Accepted Answer

Everyone should get their cholesterol tested. Those who do not have access to a doctor or struggle to attend an appointment are ideal candidates for taking an at-home cholesterol test.

Testing frequency depends on one’s age. One general rule of thumb is for adults 20 years or older to get tested every four to six years. Adults older than 40 should get tested more often depending on their risk factors, which a doctor can help determine.

Question 41

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 42

How expensive is MyHeritage compared to competitors?

Accepted Answer

MyHeritage DNA’s tests start at $79.00 are consistently less expensive than those of its chief competitors, 23andMe, starting at $99.00 and AncestryDNA, starting at $99.00.

Question 43

What sort of subscriptions 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 leverage the company’s entire 11.9-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 44

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

Accepted Answer

MyHeritage’s at-home DNA tests are frequently available at a discount. You can also always find up-to-date coupon codes for MyHeritage’s test kits at DNAWeekly.com.

Question 45

How accurate are at-home DNA health tests?

Accepted Answer

The results from an at-home DNA health kits are very accurate. Generally, you can trust that the results will have a precision rate anywhere from 95-99.5%. However, genetic testing is still evolving and all the kinks haven&rsquo;t been worked out yet. So don&rsquo;t expect 100% accuracy just yet.

Question 46

Which DNA health test is the best?

Accepted Answer

We take a lot of things into consideration when it comes to a question like this, but the choice is pretty clear. The DNA tests you should keep on your shortlist are 23andMe, MyHeritage, and Everlywell. You’ll get high-quality testing for your predispositions to serious conditions at a great value.

Question 47

What does a DNA health test include?

Accepted Answer

Generally, it depends on the test. Usually, there&rsquo;s at some form of instructions for collecting your DNA sample, a means to collect said sample (e.g. cheek swabs or tube for your saliva), and a protective package for the sample. It&rsquo;s rarely anything complicated.

Question 48

Can you use insurance for a DNA health test?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the DNA health test. But the answer is usually “no.” Color is one of the DNA health tests that you can pay for through insurance.

Question 49

Can you get a DNA health test for your dog?

Accepted Answer

Yes. That’s becoming increasingly more available lately. If you love your dog and want some in-depth, DNA-based insight about their predispositions, we recommend that you keep Embark and Wisdom Panel in mind.

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