Correlations in the vitamin-responsive enzymes between genetic variation and metabolic impact were not possible previously since the full landscape of common genetic variation has only recently emerged. Thus, when the Recommended Daily Allowances (RDAs) were established in the middle of the 20th century, it was not possible to describe or incorporate individual genetic variation in the recommendations. Moreover, even with the wealth of genetic information available to date, no dietary guideline currently in place is based on either genetic information or from an understanding of an individual’s unique profile.
From VitaPath’s research, we now know that certain mutations in these enzymes require significantly higher levels of their vitamin cofactor for normal performance. This suggests two important conclusions: (1) the current RDA is inadequate to the needs of many individuals and (2) individuals with defined genetic profiles can mitigate their effects with over-the-counter products that carry minimal risk of side effects when taken in doses that are higher than the RDA but are still within a reasonable therapeutic window.
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