Understanding the interplay between B vitamins and genetic markers related to methylation is crucial for personalised nutrition recommendations. B vitamins act as cofactors in various metabolic cycles, including the folate cycle, methionine cycle, urea cycle, BH4 cycle, and the transsulfuration pathway.
This guide will help practitioners interpret genetic reports and recommend appropriate B vitamins based on individual methylation profiles.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Forms:
● Thiamine: The basic form.
● Thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP): The active form in the body.
- Buy Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) HERE
Functions:
● Essential for carbohydrate metabolism.
● Involved in nerve, muscle, and heart function.
● Acts as a coenzyme in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
Genetic Considerations:
● Variants in the SLC19A2 gene can affect thiamine transport.
● Deficiencies can impact the pentose phosphate pathway, which is linked to nucleotide synthesis in the folate cycle.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Forms:
● Riboflavin: The basic form.
● Flavin mononucleotide (FMN): The active form.
● Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD): The active form.
- Buy Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) HERE
Functions:
● Crucial for energy production (cellular respiration).
● Involved in the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids.
● Supports antioxidant function and red blood cell production.
Genetic Considerations:
● MTHFR gene variants (e.g., C677T) can benefit from riboflavin, as it is a cofactor for the enzyme.
● Variants in GSR (glutathione reductase) and MTRR (methionine synthase reductase) genes may indicate a higher need for riboflavin to support antioxidant and methylation processes.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Forms:
● Nicotinic acid: One form of niacin.
● Nicotinamide (niacinamide): Another form of niacin.
● Nicotinamide riboside: A form used in some supplements.
- Buy Vitamin B3 (Niacin) HERE
Functions:
● Key role in energy production and metabolism (NAD and NADP).
● Supports DNA repair and stress responses.
● Helps maintain healthy skin, nerves, and digestive system.
Genetic Considerations:
● Variants in the NQO1 gene may impact niacin metabolism.
● Niacin can help address issues related to the NAD/NADP cycle, which is crucial for cellular energy and repair mechanisms.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Forms:
● Pantothenic acid: The basic form.
● Coenzyme A (CoA): The active form.
● Pantethine: A dimer of pantothenic acid.
- Buy Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) HERE
Functions:
● Integral for fatty acid synthesis and metabolism.
● Necessary for the synthesis of coenzyme A, which is involved in energy production.
● Supports adrenal function and the production of red blood cells.
Genetic Considerations:
● Variants in the PANK2 gene can affect CoA synthesis.
● Important for those with metabolic disorders affecting fatty acid metabolism.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Forms:
● Pyridoxine: The basic form.
● Pyridoxal: Another form.
● Pyridoxamine: Another form.
● Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP): The active form.
- Buy Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) HERE
Functions:
● Involved in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and haemoglobin production.
● Supports immune function and homocysteine metabolism.
● Plays a role in gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis.
Genetic Considerations:
● CBS gene variants can increase homocysteine levels, requiring B6 for effective metabolism.
● Variants in the ALDH7A1 gene can affect PLP-dependent enzymes, impacting neurotransmitter synthesis.
● Crucial for the transsulfuration pathway, converting homocysteine to cysteine.
Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Forms:
● Biotin: The basic form (also known as Vitamin H).
Buy Vitamin B7 (Biotin) HERE
Functions:
● Essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
● Supports healthy skin, hair, and nails.
● Functions as a coenzyme for carboxylase enzymes.
Genetic Considerations:
● Variants in the HLCS gene can affect biotinidase activity, impacting biotin recycling and usage.
● Important for those with metabolic issues in gluconeogenesis and fatty acid synthesis.
Vitamin B9 (Folate)
Forms:
● Folic acid: The synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods.
● Folate (folacin): The naturally occurring form.
● 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF/Methyl Folate/Methylated Folate)): The active form.
- Buy Vitamin B9 (Methyl Folate) HERE
Functions:
● Crucial for DNA synthesis and repair.
● Important for cell division and growth.
● Supports red blood cell formation and amino acid metabolism.
Genetic Considerations:
● MTHFR gene variants significantly impact folate metabolism.
● Folate is essential for the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine in the methionine cycle.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Forms:
● Cyanocobalamin: A synthetic form used in supplements.
● Hydroxocobalamin: A form used in injections.
● Methylcobalamin: An active form in the body.
● Adenosyl cobalamin: Another active form in the body.
Functions:
● Essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function.
● Involved in DNA synthesis and fatty acid metabolism.
● Supports the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, aiding cardiovascular health.
Genetic Considerations:
● Variants in the MTR and MTRR genes can impact B12 utilisation and recycling.
● Important for addressing issues in the methionine and folate cycles.
These B vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining energy levels, brain function, and overall cellular health. Genetic testing can help tailor supplementation to individual needs, supporting optimal methylation and metabolic function.
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