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Knowing more about the past and reconnecting with your roots is getting easier every day. After all, there are several DNA tests that offer a lot of information about your ancestry.
This type of test uses a very simple sample, usually saliva. And, with the results it promises, it is generating a lot of interest around the world!
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To give you an idea, in 2018, the best-selling product on Amazon's Black Friday in the US was a DNA test. Since then, it has continued to grow in popularity.
How do these DNA tests work?
In 2003, the Human Genome Project finished sequencing the genome of much of humanity and discovered that the DNA of every person on the planet is the same 99.9%! It is in this 0.1% that the key to DNA testing lies.
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They can identify genetic variants that are only present in specific regions of the world. This way, you can know where you came from based on how many variants you have when comparing your DNA with that of other people.
What DNA test should I take to identify my ancestry?
Nowadays, there are several DNA tests you can take. Each one promises something, but in the end, it's difficult to know which is the best. That's exactly why we selected the best options on the market. So keep reading and find out a little more about them!
1. 23andMe
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23andMe is very well known, especially in North America. It has more than 12 million customers, so the database is quite extensive. The website interface is the most beautiful and simple to use. This makes navigating through the various reports, results and documents simpler. When purchasing, you will receive a kit with a tube for your saliva, a package to send back, and a shipping label.
Before taking the 23andMe test, you need to register on the app. What sets this test apart is that it is approved by the FDA to identify your risk for various genetic diseases. In addition, it also shows you a timeline that identifies where and when your ancestors were. You can check your traits, like the chance of having a certain eye color, whether you like a spice or not, and much more.
Buy the 23andMe trial on Amazon.
2. AncestryDNA
Image: Amazon.com
In turn, AncestryDNA is probably the most famous DNA test to identify your ancestry. This, even with a less pleasant interface and the need to download two applications to use everything it offers. In general, it shows the results more clearly and gives you the historical context of your ancestry information. A difference is the database of more than 25 million customers.
On the other hand, with it you won't be able to see a timeline, but only the places you came from. It also doesn't allow you to track your mother's and father's past separately. And a big negative is that it is not approved by the FDA to identify risks. Still, it shows you various health results, such as cancer risk, whether you have a disease, and much more.
Buy the AncestryDNA test on Amazon.
3. FamilyTreeDNA
Image: Amazon.com
Another famous one is FamilyTreeDNA, which has some of the most expensive tests, but also the most complete. In this case, while AncestryDNA and 23andMe only offer autosomal, in this case you can also opt for mtDNA and Y-DNA of some types. In other words, you will be able to delve as deeply as you want into your DNA and history. However, its database is “only” 2 million consumers.
In other words, it will be much more difficult to find a relative. Even so, it is highly recommended, simply for the quality of the results. In it, you see migration maps, their connections to ancestral populations, information about mutations and much more. If you have a Y chromosome (i.e., you are usually male), you can use the Y-DNA test to see your paternal ancestry.
Buy the test from FamilyTreeDNA on Amazon.
4. tellmeGen
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Finally, there is tellmeGen. However, it is good to make it clear that it is not that good in the sense of ancestry. Still, it's worth considering, as the health results are very complete, and the price is affordable. It promises to be a “7 in 1” test, informing you about several things. The main ones are ancestors, traits, well-being characteristics and predispositions to more than 200 diseases, but there are others.
Read too: Reconnect with your roots with family tree apps
A great advantage and differentiator is that the reports offered by tellmeGen will receive updates forever. In other words, take the test once and find out everything about your genetics in the future, including discovering new relatives! Another interesting question is exercise and diet tips based on your test result. This way, you can make all the adjustments you need to achieve your goals.
Buy the test from tellmeGen on Amazon.
Would you do an ancestry test based on your DNA?
As time went by, DNA testing became increasingly cheaper. Of course, it is not accessible to everyone, and there are countries where it is still relatively expensive. However, the value has decreased drastically and every day, more people are taking the test.
With them, you can discover your family's lost history. After all, it is very rare to meet someone who knows the story of their ancestors from three generations ago. Another really cool use is to find a family member that you had no idea existed. In addition to, of course, knowing more about your health profile and the risk of various diseases. So, would you do it?
