It’s rare that I encounter a health condition I’ve never heard of, but recently one of my elixir clients, Beatrice, educated me on “non-secretors.” Despite the amount of health research being done every week, I hadn’t even heard of this term.
Beatrice was considered fragile as a child because she did not have the same energy as other children and often complained of body aches and pains. She had recurring bladder infections and was over-treated with antibiotics. Her bladder was damaged and her immune system was weakened.
As a teenager, she had her appendix removed; as a young adult, she had her gallbladder removed. After years of various illnesses including pleurisy, chronic mononucleosis, digestive issues, weight gain, extreme fatigue, body aches, insomnia, etc., she was diagnosed with Epstein Barr Virus, CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) ) and fibromyalgia. Later in life, she developed osteoarthritis throughout her body.
In her own research, she discovered the “diet for our blood type” approach and followed a diet of eating foods that were good for her blood type. This helps her. A homeopathic (or naturopathic) doctor recommended that she undergo lab testing to determine if she was a non-secretor. Tests confirmed the suspicion.
While researching the condition, she discovered that the book “Live Right for your Blood Type” made many dietary recommendations, which she included. She also relies heavily on the Encyclopedia of Eating Right for Your Blood Type. I wrote about this way of eating in my last post.
It is estimated that in the general population, 80% of people secrete ABO blood group antigens in body fluids such as saliva, sweat, and gastrointestinal secretions, while 20% do not. The ability to secrete ABO blood group antigens in body fluids is determined by a gene called FUT2 (fucosyltransferase 2). In individuals with functional FUT2 genes, fucose molecules are added to certain carbohydrate structures, which allows ABO antigens to be expressed in body fluids such as saliva, tears, and mucus.Secretary includes having at least one functional copies of FUT2, of which the non-secretor has two non-functional Copy of FUT2.
Those who do not secrete antigens are thought to be more susceptible to certain health problems, including but not limited to: increased susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections, gastrointestinal problems caused by pathogens, including those associated with gastric ulcers and certain types of pylori Helicobacter stomach cancer, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, increased risk of tooth decay, bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections, norovirus (a gastrointestinal disease) and several other conditions .
For non-secretors, the effectiveness of certain medications or treatments may be affected, including the potential benefits of probiotics on the gastrointestinal tract. Some research suggests a potential link between the non-secretor state and certain psychological conditions, such as an increased risk of anxiety and depression. There is a strong connection between gut health and mental health, which I have written about in previous articles.
If you think secretor status may be affecting your health, talk to your healthcare provider (GP, naturopath, homeopathic) for diagnostic and treatment advice tailored to your individual needs and consult a reputable website Do your own research.
state(secretor or non-secretor) can be determined by specialized tests that evaluate the presence of ABO antigens in saliva or other body secretions. Genetic tests that specifically look for variations in the FUT2 gene can also identify secretor status. FUT2 testing may not be common, so testing may need to be requested if this genetic predisposition is suspected. Research on this topic is ongoing, so please check the latest scientific literature and medical advice for the latest information.
It’s important to note that being a non-secretor is not necessarily a “bad” thing; rather, it is just one of many genetic variables that affect your health. Lifestyle factors, other genetic characteristics, diet, exercise and overall health play a larger role in determining your susceptibility to various diseases. If you know you are a non-secretor, you may be more wary of certain health care decisions.
about Dietary Guidelines For non-secretors, maintaining a strong immune system is highly recommended due to possible increased susceptibility to certain infections. This means eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals while avoiding things like junk food, sugar, fast food, alcohol and smoking.
Of note, research into the effects of secretor status is ongoing. The understanding of how this genetic trait affects various aspects of health is still evolving, and new discoveries are emerging all the time.
Claire Nielsen is a health coach, author, public speaker and founder of www.elixirforlife.ca. The information provided in the above article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional health and medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, diagnosis, and/or treatment, please consult a physician, health care provider, or mental health practitioner.