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How ADCY5 and rs11708067 Affect Blood Sugar

Blood sugar, or glucose, is the main energy source for the body. Keeping glucose balanced supports energy, mood, weight management, and long-term health. The ADCY5 gene helps regulate insulin release by producing the enzyme adenylyl cyclase 5. This enzyme plays a role in the signaling pathway that tells the pancreas to secrete insulin when blood glucose rises. Variations at the rs11708067 location in ADCY5 can change how much enzyme is produced and may influence how effectively your body releases insulin.

What this means for you

Different rs11708067 genotypes can influence ADCY5 expression and insulin secretion. These differences do not determine destiny but can change relative risk for blood sugar challenges. Regardless of genotype, lifestyle choices play a powerful role in maintaining stable glucose levels. Below you will find plain-language explanations of each genotype, practical diet and lifestyle suggestions, and considerations to discuss with your healthcare provider.

Two effect alleles — AA (reduced ADCY5 expression)

What the AA genotype means

With the AA genotype you carry two copies of the effect allele associated with greatly reduced ADCY5 expression. This typically means lower levels of adenylyl cyclase 5, which can blunt the signaling that prompts insulin release when blood glucose rises. As a result, you may have a higher tendency toward weaker insulin responses and greater risk for blood sugar management challenges.

Actionable strategies

  • Diet: Emphasize low-glycemic, fiber-rich foods to slow glucose absorption. Focus on non-starchy vegetables, whole grains in moderation, legumes, nuts, seeds, and berries.
  • Protein and fats: Include lean protein with meals and healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, and fatty fish to blunt post-meal glucose spikes.
  • Meal pattern: Consider smaller, balanced meals or snacks every 3 to 4 hours to avoid large glucose swings. Pair carbohydrates with protein and fiber.
  • Exercise: Aim for regular aerobic exercise plus resistance training. Both help increase insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake by muscles.
  • Weight and sleep: Maintain a healthy body weight and prioritize 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep to support metabolic regulation.
  • Stress management: Practice stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga because stress hormones can raise blood glucose.

Supplements and tests to discuss with your provider

  • Consider discussing alpha-lipoic acid, berberine, magnesium, or chromium with your clinician. Evidence is mixed and suitability depends on your health profile and medications.
  • Periodic monitoring: Fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and fasting insulin can help track blood sugar control and insulin function over time.
  • If concerned about diabetes risk, your provider may suggest an oral glucose tolerance test or referrals to nutrition or endocrinology specialists.
One effect allele — AG (moderately reduced ADCY5 expression)

What the AG genotype means

With the AG genotype you carry one copy of the effect allele and one non-effect allele. This is associated with moderately reduced ADCY5 expression. Your ability to trigger insulin secretion is likely slightly diminished compared with individuals with two non-effect alleles, but the impact is generally milder than with two effect alleles.

Actionable strategies

  • Diet: Favor low-glycemic carbohydrates and high-fiber foods. Emphasize vegetables, legumes, whole grains in controlled portions, berries, and nuts.
  • Meal composition: Combine carbohydrates with protein and healthy fats to slow absorption and reduce peak glucose levels.
  • Physical activity: Regular aerobic activity and strength training improve insulin sensitivity and help maintain stable blood sugar.
  • Lifestyle: Prioritize sleep, hydration, and stress management to lower blood sugar variability.

Supplements and tests to discuss with your provider

  • Depending on your overall health and lab values, your provider may consider targeted supplements such as magnesium or vitamin D if deficiencies are present.
  • Routine screening with fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c is reasonable for monitoring trends over time.
No effect alleles — GG (typical ADCY5 expression)

What the GG genotype means

With the GG genotype you carry two copies of the non-effect allele and are associated with typical or normal ADCY5 expression. This generally supports a standard capacity for insulin release in response to rising blood glucose. It does not eliminate risk for blood sugar problems from other genes or lifestyle factors.

Actionable strategies

  • Diet: Continue a balanced approach with low to moderate glycemic carbohydrates, plenty of fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
  • Active lifestyle: Maintain regular aerobic and resistance exercise to preserve insulin sensitivity.
  • Prevention: Regular health screenings, healthy weight maintenance, sleep quality, and stress control all support long-term metabolic health.

Supplements and tests to discuss with your provider

  • Supplementation is generally not required solely based on this genotype. Address any nutrient gaps or chronic conditions with your clinician.
  • Routine screening with fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c as recommended for your age and risk profile.

Practical meal examples

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with berries, chia seeds, and a small handful of nuts.
  • Lunch: Large mixed salad with leafy greens, grilled chicken or chickpeas, quinoa, avocado, and vinaigrette.
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter or raw vegetables with hummus.
  • Dinner: Baked salmon, roasted non-starchy vegetables, and a modest serving of lentils or brown rice.

When to talk with your healthcare provider

  • If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or metabolic syndrome.
  • If routine tests show elevated fasting glucose, rising hemoglobin A1c, or unusual fatigue, increased thirst, or frequent urination.
  • Before starting any supplement or major dietary change, especially if you take medications or have chronic health conditions.

PlexusDx provides genetic education and interpretation only. This information is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medical decisions, starting new supplements, or changing your diet or exercise routine. Your provider can interpret genetic findings in the context of your full medical history, current lab results, medications, and health goals.