Listed in order of importance to the body’s methylation process and the MTHFR gene mutant’s need:
Folate [B-9] (as 5-Methylfolate) - This is the bioactive form of the primary enzyme needed for methylation, especially if you have an MTHFR mutation. It by-passes vitamin processing pathways because it is the already converted form of the vitamin element. So your body can immediately use it. It is often recommended in daily doses of 3,000-15,000 mcg (3-15 mg) for individuals with an MTHFR defect.
B-12 (as Methylcobalamin) - This is the key form of B-12 needed by someone with an MTHFR gene defect - most often B-12 is found in the form ‘Cobalamin’ which requires additional conversions. For the body’s direct use, the methylated form of B-12 is best absorbed in the mouth’s mucous membranes (sublingual or lozenge form is best). It’s important to note that taking L-Methylfolate (L-5-MTHF) without B-12 puts one at risk for masking a B-12 deficiency. To avoid this, just take 3,000-15,000 mcg (3-15 mg) of B-12 (Methylcobalamin) daily with your L-Methylfolate or 5-MTHF (besides, it’s a great energy lift).
B-6 (as Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate) - This is another key piece to supporting the larger methylation process that is so inhibited in an individual who has a MTHFR gene mutation. Think of it as an important enabler of the larger methylation cycle. Note: In a small percentage of individuals, this vitamin can build up and cause a headache that feels like a tight band has been stuck on the head. It’s often recommended in daily doses between 20-35 mg to help methylation.
B-2 (as Riboflavin-5-Phosphate) - This vitamin’s need is being uncovered in studies regarding MTHFR, homocysteine, and cardiovascular health. High homocysteine levels have often been directly correlated with low B-2 (Riboflavin) levels (along with cardiovascular problems) in people with an MTHFR gene defect. So let’s just avoid this cardiovascular risk altogether and take B-2 every day with our L-5-MTHF supplement.
Also Read: A Suggested Methylation Protocol
B-1 (as Thiamine HCI) - This is classified as one of the essential B vitamins and therefore included to provide a complete B experience within Methyl-Life (so you don’t have to buy another B vitamin supplement in addition to your folate/methylation support).
B-3 (Niacinamide) - This is classified as one of the essential B vitamins and therefore included to provide a complete B experience within Methyl-Life (so you don’t have to buy another B vitamin supplement in addition to your folate/methylation support).
Biotin - This is classified as one of the essential B vitamins and therefore included to provide a complete B experience within Methyl-Life (so you don’t have to buy another B vitamin supplement in addition to your folate/methylation support)
B-5 (D-calcium pantothenate) - This is classified as one of the essential B vitamins and therefore included to provide a complete B experience within Methyl-Life (so you don’t have to buy another B vitamin supplement in addition to your folate/methylation support).
Inositol, PABA & Choline - All three of these ingredients are no longer considered part of the ‘essential’ B vitamins, though they once were considered members of the B complex. They are now considered cofactors of the B vitamins and support various functions in the body (these are the perfect complement to the B vitamins).
Read Next: Finding an MTHFR Expert
