The Future is Personal Nutrition – Are You Ready?

Though lacking a universal definition, personal nutrition (PN) is based on the belief that a one-size-fits-all approach to diet and nutrition advice is not all that effective. Because we differ on so many fronts – what and how we eat, how we digest and absorb nutrients and how we use those nutrients in our bodies – it stands to reason that individuality should be part and parcel of establishing recommendations that work best. By collecting information on genetics, the community of bacteria in the gut, lifestyle habits, behaviors, existing health conditions, and the environment in and around each of us, PN aims to deliver more tailored and, theoretically, more influential diet guidance to optimize health. 

PN emerged about 20 years ago, shortly after the human genome was fully mapped. Since then, there has been a drive to see how genetic information could shape all aspects of our health. Because poor nutrition is a key player in many chronic illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer, PN technologies have bloomed over the past 10 years. Proponents see these tools as an effective way to remove or ease the risk and toll a poor diet can have on health (see table).

• Motivation. The various PN tests, devices and tools available can pique curiosity and make it more interesting and exciting to understand and actively participate in your health. If the prescribed recommendations result in health gains, it can further boost motivation. Knowledge is empowering. 
   
• Improved odds of better health. People differ in how they react to various diet interventions. Knowing your patterns and nuances – including how your body responds to what, when and how you eat – can help you more efficiently and effectively employ eating habits and foods that benefit health. Some PN tools may help detect risks early on so remedies can start sooner.
   
• Real-time feedback. Some of the PN data collected can be fed into AI programs that immediately kick out advice or practical tactics like food swaps and meal-timing suggestions. They can also predict potential health hiccups, such as a low blood sugar level or an allergy-related danger. These systems can improve the efficiency and response to medical interactions and services.

• Quality control. Most of the current PN tools and technologies are direct-to-consumer tests and products. Consumer protection watchdog groups and federal regulatory rules and guidance are not keeping pace with the growth of the industry and its product claims. Meanwhile, some studies show that accuracy can vary from tool to tool. For example, a 2024 review of wearable devices found that fewer than 4% were validated for the metric(s) they were designed to measure. Talk with your healthcare provider for vetted suggestions. Always question product claims that sound too good to be true.
   
• Data management and privacy. Cybersecurity risk is a constant, and hacks are an everyday occurrence. From health and biological data to purchasing and lifestyle habits, emotions and family history, your sensitive data is out there and likely housed in a variety of places. Read the fine print on how your information will be used and protected.
   
• Professional input. PN should be a team sport. The evaluation and application of the information you gain is best coordinated with a dietitian, physician or other qualified health professional. Some healthcare providers have more training in PN than others, especially as it relates to genetic and microbiome testing. Work with a knowledgeable, qualified practitioner. 
   
• The "worried well." Accumulating too much data can increase anxiety and stress around certain health goals or measurements related to sleep, exercise or food choices. This level of worry and hyperfocus is counterproductive to better health.

• Other factors:
  • Affordability and accessibility of many tests and tools limit their reach and use. The robust nature of PN depends on analyzing data from as many users as possible to create recommendations. The more participants, the better the outputs and recommendations. Insurance coverage in the PN space is spotty at best.
     
  • There are a vast number of unknowns in the food and health space. It's a complex science that’s constantly evolving. Closely evaluate tools that promise extraordinary results.
     
  • Supplements and functional foods are often encouraged to support the PN data that comes your way. Relying too heavily on these products may nudge out eating naturally wholesome foods and negatively affect how you enjoy the family, community and cultural aspects of eating.
     
  • The current food environment can make it difficult to follow PN advice. Access to healthy foods when eating out or traveling, the abundance and flavors of ultra-processed foods, limited time and energy, affordability, misinformation or misleading marketing messages, and other factors can greatly influence food choices.

Personalized nutrition is the future, and its possibilities are quite amazing. 

If PN interests you, start by identifying your goal(s) for pursuing it. That awareness will help determine which tools are the best fit for you. Be curious, explore the options and take time to scrutinize their validity. Consult a healthcare provider who knows you and your medical history before making any significant investments or changes. 

The tools, technologies and claims in direct-to-consumer offerings are often ahead of the science. As the world works to catch up, be assured that, though broad, the current science-driven nutrition recommendations still stand the test of time, including Michael Pollan's "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants." Personally, I'd add an addendum to that advice: Find joy. The joy of good food is an essential ingredient for happiness and good health.

NOTE: Information in this article is not intended as medical advice.