Understanding the Differences Between Methylated/ Active Vitamins and Preformed Non-Active Versions
The distinction between methylated or active vitamins and their non-active counterparts is crucial for many individuals, especially those with specific genetic variations (SNPs) that impact vitamin metabolism. Here, we’ll explore these differences, highlight key examples, and explain how genetic SNP testing can play a significant role in determining which vitamins are best for you.
What Are Methylated/Active Vitamins?
Methylated or active vitamins are already in a bioavailable form that the body can use immediately. These vitamins don’t need to undergo conversion processes in the body to become active, which makes them particularly important for individuals with certain genetic variants that reduce the efficiency of this conversion.
Examples include:
● Methylated Folate (5-MTHF): This is the active form of folic acid.
● Methylcobalamin: The active form of vitamin B12, which doesn’t require conversion like its synthetic counterpart, cyanocobalamin.
Preformed Non-Active Vitamins
Non-active vitamins are the standard forms that are more commonly found in supplements. These forms need to be converted by the body into their active state before they can be used effectively. In some cases, people’s bodies struggle to make this conversion due to genetic SNPs.
Examples of non-active forms include:
● Folic acid: Needs to be converted to methylated folate (5-MTHF).
● Beta-carotene: A non-active form of vitamin A that needs conversion to retinol.
Genetic SNPs and Vitamin Metabolism
Genetic Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) are genetic variations that can affect how efficiently someone metabolises certain vitamins. Let’s explore a few key examples:
MTHFR and Folate Metabolism
The MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase) gene is crucial for converting folic acid into its active form, methylfolate (5-MTHF). Variants in this gene (such as C677T and A1298C) can reduce enzyme activity, impairing the body's ability to make this conversion. Individuals with these variants benefit from taking methylated folate directly.
- Buy Methyl Folate (5-MTHF) Supplement HERE
FUT2 and Vitamin B12 Absorption
The FUT2 gene affects the absorption and metabolism of vitamin B12. Individuals with certain FUT2 variants may struggle to absorb B12 efficiently, so taking methylcobalamin, the active form of B12, can be beneficial.
- Buy Methylcobalamin (B12) Supplement HERE
BCMO1 and Vitamin A Conversion
The BCMO1 gene is responsible for converting beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A) into its active form, retinol. People with certain BCMO1 variants may have impaired ability to make this conversion, meaning they might not get enough vitamin A from beta-carotene-rich foods like carrots. In these cases, it’s better to focus on consuming preformed vitamin A (retinol) from animal sources or supplements.
- Buy Vitamin A Supplement HERE
FADS Genes and Omega-3 Conversion
The FADS1 and FADS2 genes are involved in converting plant-based omega-3 (ALA) into its active forms (EPA and DHA), which are more readily used by the body. People with certain FADS variants may have reduced efficiency in this conversion process, meaning they should focus on getting EPA and DHA directly from fish or fish oil supplements rather than relying on plant-based sources like flaxseed oil.
- Buy Omega 3 Supplement HERE
Why Methylated/Active Vitamins Can Be Crucial
For individuals with certain genetic variants, the body’s natural ability to convert non-active vitamins into their usable forms can be significantly diminished. This is why taking the active or methylated forms of these vitamins ensures that the body can immediately use them without relying on inefficient conversion pathways.
Examples of When Active Forms Are Essential
1. MTHFR C677T variant: Individuals with this variant may not convert folic acid into methylated folate (5-MTHF) efficiently. Taking a supplement with 5-MTHF ensures that folate levels are optimised without the risk of unmetabolised folic acid accumulating.
2. FUT2 variants: These individuals may have impaired B12 absorption, making methylcobalamin a better choice than cyanocobalamin, which requires further conversion.
3. BCMO1 variant: Individuals with this SNP may not convert beta-carotene to retinol effectively.
Focusing on preformed vitamin A sources like retinol supplements or liver can help maintain adequate vitamin A levels.
The Importance of Genetic Testing
Genetic SNP testing, such as testing for MTHFR, FUT2, BCMO1, and FADS genes, can help you understand your unique nutritional needs. If you have one or more of these SNPs, you might need to adjust your supplementation to ensure your body is getting the vitamins it can absorb and use efficiently. Methylated or active vitamins can be especially important in cases where genetic variations reduce the body’s ability to metabolise non-active vitamins.
Conclusion
The choice between methylated/active vitamins and non-active preformed versions can significantly impact your health, especially if genetic variants are at play. Genetic SNP testing can reveal these variations, helping you choose the right supplements to optimise your health and avoid nutrient deficiencies. For individuals with SNPs like MTHFR, BCMO1, and FADS, taking the active form of vitamins like 5-MTHF , methylcobalamin, and retinol can be more beneficial than their non-active counterparts.
Understanding your genetic makeup can help you make informed decisions about your vitamin and supplement choices, ensuring your body gets the nutrients it needs in a form it can effectively use.
Book a General Advice Call - Speak with our clinical team who can advise on the right testing or supplements based on your symptoms and needs.
