Complex & Invisible Health / Nutrient Processing

Nutrient Processing & Metabolism

How well you absorb, convert and use nutrients is shaped partly by your genes. Genetic tests can highlight tendencies; blood tests measure your actual levels.

Genes and nutrients

Many nutrients need to be transported, converted into active forms or stored. Genetic variants in the proteins that do this work can influence your tendencies. Some well-studied examples:

  • Vitamin D: genes such as CYP2R1 (which converts vitamin D in the liver) and GC (which makes vitamin D-binding protein) are associated with differences in blood vitamin D levels.
  • Folate and B12: see Methylation & Folate Metabolism.
  • Iron: HFE variants affect iron absorption. See Hereditary Hemochromatosis.
  • Caffeine: the CYP1A2 enzyme breaks down caffeine. Variants are associated with faster or slower caffeine metabolism.

Tendencies vs. levels

Your genes don't change, but your nutrient levels do, depending on diet, absorption, health conditions and medications. A genetic tendency toward lower vitamin D, for example, doesn't mean your vitamin D is low today.

To know your actual nutrient levels, you need a blood test. Genetic results can help you and your practitioner decide which levels may be worth checking or monitoring.

Explore Related Testing

DNA Nutrition Test
Laboratory: Genetrack · order through Wise Canary

DNA Nutrition Test

$310.00

What's tested
Genetic variants associated with vitamins A, B9 (folate), B12, C, D and E, iron and omega-3.
What it explores
Your genetic tendency toward lower levels of certain nutrients.
Why it may be relevant
Helps focus diet and conversations about which nutrient levels to check.
Sample
Cheek (buccal) swab, collected at home
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DNA Osteoporosis Risk Test
Laboratory: Genetrack · order through Wise Canary

DNA Osteoporosis Risk Test

$240.00

What's tested
CYP2R1, GC, WNT16, GDF5 and COL1A1.
What it explores
Genetic variants linked to bone density, bone strength and vitamin D processing.
Why it may be relevant
Includes CYP2R1 and GC, two genes involved in vitamin D processing.
Sample
Cheek (buccal) swab, collected at home
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DNA Caffeine Sensitivity Test
Laboratory: Genetrack · order through Wise Canary

DNA Caffeine Sensitivity Test

$180.00

What's tested
CYP1A2 variants.
What it explores
Whether you are a fast or slow caffeine metabolizer.
Why it may be relevant
CYP1A2 is the main enzyme that breaks down caffeine.
Sample
Cheek (buccal) swab, collected at home
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dietPower DNA Test
dnaPower · purchased on dnaPower's website

dietPower DNA Test

$299.00 · price set by dnaPower

What's tested
150+ genetic variations related to diet, as described by dnaPower.
What it explores
Macronutrient needs, food sensitivities and vitamin and mineral requirements.
Why it may be relevant
A broad, diet-focused genetic report with practical recommendations.
Sample
Cheek swab, collected at home
View Test

For education only. Speak with a healthcare provider before starting supplements.