What’s included in my DNA kit purchase?

Your DNA kit unlocks the foundation of your personalized AlterMe experience. It includes:

- At-home DNA saliva swab with step-by-step instructions
- Analysis of 60+ genetic markers (SNPs) tied to fitness, nutrition, mindset, stress, inflammation, and recovery
- Secure lab processing by our CLIA licensed laboratory, in the USA.
- Personalized trait report covering how your body responds to strength training, cardio, carbs, fats, protein, and more
- Phone consultation where your Fitness Advisor will walk you through key genetic insights and how they affect your fitness goals 

See video for more: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/E7fNoDZWSNw


What does AlterMe test for / What genes are tested?

AlterMe tests over 60 genetic markers (SNPs) related to your body’s response to exercise, nutrition, stress, and recovery. This includes genes that influence fat loss from strength or cardio training, motivation to work out, inflammation risk, bone density, and stress tolerance.

Can I swab if I am sick?

Yes, you can swab even if you are sick. Always follow pre-swab instructions, like avoiding food, drink, and brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes prior.

Do I have to fast before swabbing?

No, you do not need to fast before swabbing for your AlterMe DNA test.

You should, however, avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for at least 30 minutes before collecting your saliva sample. This helps ensure the sample isn’t contaminated, which could affect the quality of your DNA results. But there’s no requirement for extended fasting like with a blood test.

How do I collect my sample?

We use a noninvasive swab to collect cells from the mouth. The swab is easy to use and only takes about a minute to collect enough DNA for analysis. Once collected, the swab is mailed directly to our lab for analysis.

What happens to my swab once I send it back?

Once you send your swab back it goes through a three step process: lab analysis, trait mapping, and sample destructions.

1. Lab Analysis
   Your swab goes to a certified lab where your DNA is analyzed for ~60 key genetic markers.

2. Trait Mapping
   The lab identifies traits related to fitness, nutrition, stress, fat loss, and more using evidence-based genotyping.

3. DNA Destroyed
   Your physical swab and remaining sample are disposed of securely in accordance with privacy and biohazard protocols. No long-term biological material is stored.

How quickly do I need to return my sample?

To maintain the sample's quality for our lab, we request its prompt return after swabbing, ideally within 24 hours.

My swab tip is slightly yellow - is it suitable for use?

A slight yellowing of the tip is a well-known phenomenon and could be due to many factors: the type of raw material, product sterilization treatment or natural aging of the fibers which make up the swab.  If the swab tip is slightly yellow in color, it is not indicative of product deterioration and you should use the swab as instructed.

How old do I have to be before I can take the test?

You must be 18 years old to do the Alter DNA test.

Do I have to pay a monthly membership?

AlterMe includes three years of membership with your purchase. After that, if you want to maintain full access to the personalized app features, workouts, and biometric integration, there’s a $29/month membership fee. You can pause your membership anytime and still keep access to the basic features of your AlterMe Ring (or Signal) like activity and sleep tracking.

How do I navigate my app?

Here is a link to walk you through the AlterMe app and how to get the most out of it:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/F6lB7a7-kOk

I can’t get my ring to pair with my app.

Please follow these troubleshooting steps in order to try and resolve any pairing issues:

- Charge your ring:  Place your ring on the charger for at least 30 minutes. A low battery can prevent successful pairing.

- Check phone settings:
1. Ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
2. Ensure location services are enabled for the AlterMe app (required for pairing on both iOS and Android).
3. Make sure your ring is physically near your phone while pairing.

- Check your phone software. 
Note: If your phone is running an outdated operating system, pairing may fail. Please check for any available software updates for your iOS or Android device and install them if needed.

If you've tried all of the above and still can’t get the ring to pair, please reach out to our support team!

My ring isn’t charging – what should I do?

To start, could you please try the following quick checks:

- Charger connection: Make sure the charging cable is securely connected to a working power source.
- Ring placement: Reseat the ring on the charger — it should sit aligned with the ring charging notches at the back. 
- Clean the contacts: Gently wipe both the ring’s charging contacts and the charger surface with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any debris or moisture.
- Try a different USB port or power adapter: Sometimes, a different power source can help determine if the issue is with the charger.

If you’ve tried all of the above and the ring still shows no lights or signs of charging, please contact our support team. 

How do I determine my ring size?

You'll receive a ring sizing kit to ensure the perfect fit. Once you've confirmed your size, we'll ship your ring.

Here is a tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omhVlOm0pjM

How do I setup my AlterMe screen?

Here is a step by step guide on how to setup your AlterMe Screen: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhfHjU3XtU8&t=54s

If you are having trouble, please reach out to our support team!

DNA Fitness & Health Report