Genetic DNA testing oftentimes produces surprising results. That’s because these tests can help to identify an individual’s heritage, ethnicity and more. Not only are these tests surprisingly accurate, but they are becoming much more affordable and accessible to the public. That’s why we’ve outlined below the most surprising things that a DNA genetic test can do for you.

1. Narrow Down Ethnicity

One of the main reasons that people request to have DNA genetic testing completed is to identify their ethnicity. This is especially needed for individuals who may not be aware of the region they are from. Genetic DNA testing is able to accurately provide the individual being tested with the region or regions that their DNA is from.

However, this test is not only useful for people who are not aware of the area they come from. Even those that know the country their ancestors came from can gain a better understanding from genetic testing. That’s because, the test is able to narrow down and specify the exact town or region that is linked to their ancestors. Ultimately, giving the individual a greater sense of self and awareness of their ethnic identity.

2. Identify Family History

In addition to the region or ethnic make-up of an individual, genetic testing can be used to identify the regions in which your family has travelled and settled down roots. This is done by comparing your DNA to other individuals and pulling up profiles that match. This means, that you can trace the route your ancestors took to get to where you are today. This is not only interesting information to have about your family but the answers it gives can be surprising as you may learn something about your ancestors that was not known previously.

3. Connect You with Living Relatives

As it was mentioned above, the genetic DNA test can provide you with information about the settlement pattern of your ancestors. In turn, this information can be used to connect you with living relatives. This is done by uploading your genetic profile into an online sharing database. This database is then used to compare and contrast DNA profiles.

Once uploaded, you can receive notifications when there is a close match with your profile. Having your DNA profile match another individual means that there is likely a chance that you are relatives. You are then able to get in contact with one another to trace both of your histories.

4. Establish a New Identity

DNA genetic testing can give a highly accurate depiction of your ethnicity. This can come as surprising information to many people. That’s because you may discover that you are from a region you were not aware of. This information can then be used for you to re-discover your ancestry and roots. In turn, helping you to create a greater understanding of yourself and your family. This greater understanding can be used to shape your personality, heritage, and development.

5. Create a Better Understanding of Yourself

DNA genetic testing will be able to provide you with concrete answers to where you are from. Without the test being completed on your genetic profile, you may be left wondering for your entire life where exactly your family came from. Rather than wonder or guess the regions the DNA genetic test can be used to shape the conception you have of yourself and eliminate any doubt you had prior to taking the test.