Is Gary Brecka’s $599 Genetic Methylation Test Worth the Hype? This Test Goes Much Deeper

DNA methylation tests have surged in popularity, fueled by health influencers and biohacking enthusiasts.

Ex-tech mogul and Project Blueprint founder Bryan Johnson regularly uses this assessment to track how quickly—or, rather, slowly—he’s ageing. If you spend any time on social media, you might have seen clips of UFC President Dana White’s health turnaround story that he credits to the protocols of Gary Brecka, PhD, and his 10X Health System.

However, this space isn’t without controversy. While Gary Brecka's 10X Health System has popularized Genetic Methylation testing, some critics question the legitimacy of its $599 Genetic Test. Is the analysis of only five genes enough to provide a complete picture of a person’s genetic health? While Gary Brecka is no longer directly affiliated with 10x Health, other high profile influencers have taken over his mantle; with Jen Selter, Michael Chandler,and Joe Rogan as high-profile ambassadors of 10X Health System, how much of it can be chalked up to influencer hype?

With these concerns in mind, is 10X Health’s Genetic Methylation Test a smart investment? Or are there better, more affordable, and scientifically robust alternatives? Let’s find out.

But First, What is Methylation Testing And Why Does It Matter?

While Gary Brecka brought the concept of DNA Methylation to the public eye, the science has been widely studied for decades.

Methylation is a biochemical process where methyl groups are added to DNA, altering their function and affecting gene expression. A methyl group is made up of one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms, hence the alternative term "one-carbon metabolism". Methylation can be thought of as the process of turning a raw material into a form that we can use. It is involved in almost every biochemical reaction in every cell in our body, occurring billions of times per second.

This process plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including:

• Gene Expression: Regulating which genes are turned on or off.
• Nutrient Absorption: Converting ingested nutrients into their usable forms.
• Detoxification: Helping the body remove toxins.
• Neurotransmitter Regulation: Balancing chemicals in the brain.
• Immune Response: Enhancing the body’s defence mechanisms.
• Energy Production: Contributes to the generation of ATP, the primary energy carrier in cells, by supporting mitochondria function.
• Fat Metabolism: Assists in the breakdown and utilisation of fats.
• Protein Function: Influencing their ability to carry out various cellular processes.
• Cell Membrane Repair: Vital for ensuring cellular integrity and communication.
• Fertility and Reproductive Health: Methylation influences reproductive cell function and fertility.

A big focus of methylation testing is on MTHFR gene mutation, which affects up to 44% of the global population. This group of individuals cannot convert folic acid (the synthetic form of vitamin B9) into methylfolate (the usable form in the body), leading to a cascade of effects from nutrient deficiencies to folic acid overload.

However, the MTHFR gene is just one of hundreds that impact our energy levels, mood regulation, and nutrient absorption. This is why 10X Health Genetic Test’s narrow focus on just 5 genes is a point of contention.

Should You Consider Methylation Testing?

If you

• Experience chronic fatigue, anxiety, or depression with no clear cause.
• Tried multiple medications (especially for ADHD or depression) with little to no effect.
• Have a family history of heart disease, blood clotting disorders, or recurrent miscarriages.
• Want to optimize your health, longevity, and nutrient absorption.

then DNA methylation tests can help you discover how to supplement with the right nutrients to restore deficiencies and hormone balances. However, a test is not a silver bullet! It's crucial to interpret these results with the help of a qualified professional, as genetic predispositions do not always translate into active health issues.

What Does the 10X Health Genetic Methylation Test Offer?

10X Health’s test focuses on five specific genes:

• MTHFR
• AHCY
• COMT
• MTRR
• MTR

These are the genes in which most genetic mutations and defects related to methylation occur. The test claims to offer insights into:

• Risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
• Biological age estimation, factoring in genetics and lifestyle.
• Personalized health recommendations tailored to genetic data.

While this test correctly highlights the importance of methylation and focuses on the most important genes, these 5 genes are not the only ones that impact overall wellness. Which begs the question; does such a small dataset justify the $599 price tag?

Is StrideDNA a Better Option?

For those looking for a more comprehensive, science-backed alternative, StrideDNA offers an extensive genetic analysis that goes beyond just five genes. Here’s how it compares:

• Comprehensive Genetic Analysis: Unlike the 10X Health test, StrideDNA analyses over 9,000 genetic locations and 110 SNPs, providing a far more detailed and accurate picture of your genetic health. All genes tested are backed by peer-reviewed human studies and modifiable lifestyle changes.
• More Affordable Pricing: Their most advanced genetic test, the Optimal Health Report, is £349 (~$440), significantly cheaper than 10X Health. If you’re lucky, you might just catch their 30% off sale and grab your test at just £244 (~$310)! They also have a basic option starting at only £139 (~$175) which tests for the 5 key methylation genes.
• Actionable Reports: The Optimal Health Report comes with 46 comprehensive reports including
  • Methylation pathways (Folate, Methionine, BH4, Urea, and Transsulfuration cycles, plus an in-depth analysis of the 5 key genes included in the 10X Health Test!)
  • Nutrigenetics (Vitamin deficiencies, caffeine/alcohol tolerance, detox capabilities)
  • Fitness & Mental Health (Endurance, recovery, stress resilience, sleep chronotype)
  • Skin health (Oxidative stress, pigmentation, sensitivity to refined carbs, glycation damage)
  The results are provided through an interactive digital health platform that includes 1:1 consultations with health practitioners, ensuring users understand and can act on their results.

Unlock Your Health Secrets in 3 Simple Steps

1. Choose Your Testing Package

StrideDNA offers three testing packages

• Methylation Report – Focuses on five key methylation cycles (Folate Cycle, Methionine Cycle, Transsulphuration Pathway, BH4 Cycle, Urea Cycle), the same ones analysed in the Gary Brecka 10X Health Test but at a fraction of the price.
• Methylation + Nutrigenetic Report – Includes all of the above plus 24 nutrigenic reports on vitamin absorption, food sensitivities, and detoxification insights.
• Optimal Health Report – All of the above plus a full health optimization package covering fitness, mental health, and skin aging.

After selecting a package, users receive an at-home DNA test kit, which requires only a simple cheek swab.

2. Discovery

DNA samples are processed in Stride’s in-house lab, analyzing over 9,000+ genetic markers. The results are delivered within 10 working days, which include interactive digital reports with detailed insights and action steps, including (of course) a methylation profile as popularised by Gary Brecka.

3. Action

Once you receive your StrideDNA results, then the real work starts. StrideDNA supports all customers with

• Customized Supplement Plans – Users can opt for personalized liposomal supplements based on their results.
• 1:1 Consultations – Free expert guidance to help optimize diet, lifestyle, and supplementation.
• Long-Term Health Tracking – Ongoing insights via Stride’s digital health platform.

What Do StrideDNA Customers Say?

StrideDNA has received high praise for its depth of analysis, affordability, and expert support. Customers highlight the comprehensive nature of reports and personalized action plans, making genetic insights more accessible and actionable.

Click here to read more reviews.

Final Verdict: Should You Get a DNA Methylation Test?

If you’re serious about health optimization, StrideDNA offers a superior, cost-effective alternative to 10X Health’s test. With a broader genetic analysis, expert consultations, and actionable health recommendations, it provides better value for money.

For those looking to take control of their health through genetics, StrideDNA is a clear winner.

👉 Discover your methylation capabilities today. Visit getstride.com to get started.

PS: I checked the StrideDNA website, and they are running a limited time 30% OFF offer across all their DNA tests.  But fair warning—they mentioned that due to the unexpected popularity of DNA methylation testing, they might be stopping all offers next month.