DNA & MTHFR Genetic Screening on the Sunshine Coast – Sue Kira / True Vitality
Unlock the Secrets Written in Your Genes
Your genes don’t just determine your eye colour or height — they also reveal a great deal about your health risks, your nutritional needs and how your body processes everything from food to toxins to stress. At True Vitality on the Sunshine Coast, Sue Kira uses DNA and MTHFR genetic screening to give you a genuinely personalised roadmap for your health — one that’s uniquely yours.
Furthermore, understanding your genetic blueprint doesn’t mean living in fear of what might go wrong. On the contrary, it means gaining the knowledge and tools to make smarter, more targeted choices that support your body where it needs it most — and help you avoid illness before it develops.
What Is DNA Screening?
DNA screening analyses specific genes and genetic variations — known as single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs — that influence how your body functions. Consequently, Sue uses your results to identify areas where your body may need extra nutritional or lifestyle support to perform at its best.
Unlike standard blood tests that measure what’s happening in your body right now, DNA screening reveals your underlying genetic tendencies — information that remains constant throughout your life and can guide your health decisions for decades to come.
What Can DNA Screening Reveal?
Sue uses DNA screening to assess your genetic risk and tendencies across a wide range of health areas, including:
- Cardiovascular disease risk — including clotting tendencies and cholesterol metabolism
- Diabetes and blood sugar regulation
- Obesity and weight management — how your body responds to different foods and exercise
- Nutrient absorption and metabolism — including folate, B vitamins, vitamin D and iron
- Detoxification capacity — how efficiently your body clears toxins and environmental chemicals
- Inflammation pathways — genetic tendencies toward chronic inflammation
- Hormonal health — oestrogen metabolism and hormonal balance
- Methylation — a critical biochemical process affecting mood, immunity, detoxification and more
- Mental health markers — neurotransmitter production and mood regulation genes
“DNA screening is one of the most empowering tools I use in clinic. When understanding a client’s genetic blueprint, every recommendation becomes far more precise and far more effective.” — Sue Kira, Naturopath & Founder, True Vitality
What Is MTHFR Gene Testing?
Understanding the MTHFR Mutation
One of the most important and frequently requested genetic tests Sue conducts is MTHFR testing. MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase — an enzyme that plays a critical role in processing folate and other B vitamins, and in driving the methylation cycle throughout the body.
A mutation in the MTHFR gene — which is surprisingly common, affecting a significant proportion of the population — reduces the body’s ability to convert folate from food and supplements into its active, usable form. Additionally, impaired MTHFR function disrupts methylation, a biochemical process involved in hundreds of essential functions throughout the body.
Why Does MTHFR Matter?
When Sue identifies an MTHFR mutation, it helps explain — and guide treatment for — a remarkably wide range of health concerns. Conditions and symptoms associated with MTHFR mutations include:
Reproductive and Developmental Health
- Difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriage
- Increased risk of neural tube defects in pregnancy
- Increased risk of autism spectrum disorders
Cardiovascular Health
- Elevated homocysteine levels — a significant cardiovascular risk factor
- Increased risk of venous thrombosis and blood clotting
- Stroke risk
Mental Health and Neurological Function
- Anxiety and depression
- Mood disorders and irritability
- Brain fog and poor concentration
- Fatigue
General Health
- Poor detoxification
- Immune dysfunction
- Hormonal imbalances
- Chronic inflammation
How DNA and MTHFR Testing Works
Simple and Easy to Arrange
Sue arranges DNA screening using either a saliva or blood sample — both are simple, straightforward and easy to collect. Sue will advise you on which option best suits your needs and circumstances.
Specialist Laboratory Analysis
Sue sends your sample to a specialist genetic testing laboratory for comprehensive analysis. The laboratory produces a detailed report covering your specific gene variants, their clinical significance and reference information to guide interpretation.
Your Personalised Results Consultation
Sue carefully reviews your genetic results alongside your full health history and current symptoms. She then develops a highly personalised health plan based on your unique genetic profile — covering dietary recommendations, targeted nutritional supplementation, lifestyle strategies and any further testing that would be beneficial.
MTHFR Testing Options
Sue offers two options for MTHFR testing. Firstly, MTHFR testing is automatically included as part of the full DNA screening panel — making it the most comprehensive and cost-effective choice if you want a complete genetic overview. Alternatively, if you specifically want MTHFR testing alone, Sue can arrange this as a standalone test at a lower cost.
Who Should Consider DNA and MTHFR Screening?
DNA screening is valuable for virtually anyone who wants to take a proactive approach to their health. However, Sue particularly recommends it for clients who:
- Want to understand their personal risk for chronic diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease
- Are planning a pregnancy or experiencing difficulty conceiving
- Struggle with ongoing mental health challenges including anxiety or depression
- Have a strong family history of chronic illness
- Experience unexplained fatigue, brain fog or mood imbalances
- Want to optimise their nutrition based on how their body actually processes nutrients
- Have previously tested positive for MTHFR and want a deeper understanding of what it means for them
What Our Clients Say
“I’d had two miscarriages and no one could tell me why. Sue suggested DNA testing and found I had a significant MTHFR mutation. With the right supplements and Sue’s guidance I went on to have a healthy pregnancy. I’m so grateful she looked.” — R.T., Sunshine Coast ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The DNA screening Sue organised was genuinely eye-opening. Understanding my genetic tendencies around detoxification and inflammation completely changed how I approach my diet and lifestyle. I feel so much more in control of my health.” — K.B., Noosa ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’d been told I had the MTHFR mutation by my GP but they didn’t really explain what to do about it. Sue not only explained everything clearly but developed a specific plan to support my methylation. The difference in my energy and mood has been remarkable.” — L.M., Caloundra ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Frequently Asked Questions
What sample do I need to provide for DNA screening? Sue uses either a saliva or blood sample for DNA testing — both are simple and easy to collect. She will advise you on the best option for your individual circumstances.
Is DNA testing a once-off test? Yes. Because your genes don’t change, DNA screening is a once-in-a-lifetime test. However, the insights it provides guide your health decisions for the rest of your life.
How long do results take? DNA screening results typically take two to four weeks to return from the laboratory. Sue will contact you to arrange a results consultation as soon as she receives them.
Does a positive MTHFR result mean I’ll definitely develop health problems? Not at all. Having an MTHFR mutation means your body has a reduced capacity in certain pathways — but with the right nutritional support and lifestyle adjustments, Sue helps many clients with MTHFR mutations achieve excellent health outcomes. Knowledge is power, and Sue will guide you every step of the way.
Can children be tested? Yes. DNA screening can be particularly valuable for children, especially when investigating developmental concerns, learning difficulties, mood challenges or unexplained symptoms.
Can I do this if I don’t live on the Sunshine Coast? Absolutely. Sue works with clients right across Australia via remote consultations and can arrange sample collection to suit your location. Contact Sue to discuss the best approach for you.
Is DNA screening covered by Medicare or private health insurance? Standard DNA screening through naturopathic practice is not currently covered by Medicare. However, some private health funds may offer a partial rebate on naturopathic consultations. Sue recommends checking directly with your fund.
Book Your Consultation on the Sunshine Coast
Sue sees clients at the True Vitality clinic on the Sunshine Coast and also offers remote consultations supported by functional laboratory testing for clients across Australia.
To book a consultation click here or contact Sue here.
Clinic and Postal Address: Kon-Tiki Building, Tower One, Level 2 Room 206 55 Plaza Parade, Maroochydore QLD 4558
Find the clinic on Google Maps here.
For more information on consultations, prices and what’s on offer at True Vitality, please visit this link.
DNA strand