Leading wellness destination harnesses the power of genomic for ultra-personalised wellness
Transformative wellness destination Chiva-Som in Hua Hin, Thailand, has been at the forefront of pioneering health industry since it launched 28 years ago. This month, it elevates its offering with genomic testing, further demonstrating its commitment to identifying and supporting individuals’ specific wellbeing goals and addressing the challenges of modern living in a holistic way.
Personalisation has always been the starting point for every wellness programme at Chiva-Som. Each is meticulously planned to align with the individual guest’s health & wellness goals, and give them the tools to adopt long term, sustainable lifestyle changes. The field of genomic testing provides unprecedented intelligence on our genetic code, and how lifestyle, environmental factors and nutritional habits can have dramatically different effects depending on individuals’ specific makeup. The tests analyse the DNA to identify genetic variants that impact how the subject’s body processes nutrients like vitamins and minerals, as well as how they respond to different types of exercise and environmental factors like stress. With the help of genomic testing, programmes and advice can be even more precisely tailored to guests’ needs by taking these factors into account. This can help identify ways to live better, whether looking to optimise physical performance, mitigate risk factors associated with a predisposition to particular health conditions or diseases, or manage existing symptoms of illness.
Genetic samples collected by Chiva-Som are processed in a specialist laboratory, and the results are then interpreted and conveyed to guests by specialised genomic and health counselling experts. Working with the wellness team, a bespoke programme is then created to recommend suitable exercise and sleep protocols, and treatments, as well as advice on optimising nutrient intake and other lifestyle choices aligned with the guest’s specific genetic makeup.
Launched on 31 March, two types of tests will be available, a Vital and a Longevity option. Guests can book and take the test at any point during their stay, and results are returned within 3-4 weeks.
The Vital package is tailored to guests looking to optimise their nutrition and lifestyle, for example, improve athletic performance, manage their weight, or simply feel more energized and focused. The report enables the team to relay current vitamin, mineral, toxin and hormone levels; indicate the ideal proportion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats in the individual’s diet; recommend the most suitable type of exercise; give insights into metabolism and approach towards losing weight; advise on ideal sleep requirements and recommend an optimal skincare regimen.
In addition to nutrient and lifestyle genomic testing services, the Longevitypackage offers chronic disease risk assessment. Early intervention and prevention are key to maintaining optimal health, and by analysing DNA, the team can identify genetic variants that are associated with an increased risk for common chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Whilst this is not intended to diagnose disease, it indicates susceptibility, and with this information the
Chiva-Som wellness team can provide personalised recommendations for disease prevention and early detection, such as regular screenings and lifestyle changes that can help reduce risk. As well as the inclusions in the Vital package, Longevity includes reports on susceptibility to specific chronic diseases and inheritable diseases that can be passed on; drug metabolism to guide potential treatment choices; and sensitivity to allergens and pollutants.
Genomic testing is easy, quick and beneficial for everyone. It can provide peace of mind, support proactive health management and inform family planning whilst enabling guests to fine-tune their wellness programs and lifestyle choices.