I have the gene mutation (MTHFR) where I need to take B vitamins that are in the active form.

ImmunityWomen's Health

Share

Q. Dear Terry, “I have the gene mutation (MTHFR) where I need to take B vitamins that are in the active form. I tried shopping for a B complex, but I don’t know what forms are “active.” Can you help?” – Gabriella S., San Juan, Puerto Rico

A. Dear Gabriella, Many people obtain B vitamins from their diet or supplements, but often times they are not in the proper form. There are estimates that 30-50% of the population has difficulty converting B-vitamins into their active form due to genetic mutations.

B vitamins are crucial to our overall health and wellbeing. They play a role in virtually every system in our body, including: cardiovascular, nervous, muscular, endocrine, digestive, and others. B vitamins are very important for cardiovascular health and help to reduce homocysteine levels and inflammation. Our nervous system also relies upon B vitamins for protecting our nerve endings, which ensures proper communication throughout our brain and body. B vitamins have been shown to be helpful with many mood conditions, like depression. Several B vitamins also play a very important role in overall energy production in our body.

Unfortunately, many medications can deplete the body of B vitamins like birth control pills, Metformin (used for type 2 diabetes), epilepsy, blood pressure and ulcer medications, steroids, and antibiotics. Even over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are at fault.

This is why I recommend taking B6, B12, and folic acid in their active forms – P-5-P (pyridoxal-5-phosphate), methylcobalamin, and methylfolate, respectively. These forms don’t require conversion by the liver, so they can go to work immediately to increase energy levels, support heart health, and optimize metabolism.

I would take active B vitamins once or twice per day.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally