Riboflavin | MTHFR (rs1801133)

If your genotype is AA at rs1801133, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This is associated with substantially reduced MTHFR enzyme efficiency, which can make converting folate to its active form less effective and may contribute to higher homocysteine levels.

Practical considerations

• Diet: Prioritize Riboflavin-rich foods (dairy, eggs, lean meats, mushrooms, almonds) and folate-rich foods (dark leafy greens, legumes, asparagus). Frequent small servings help maintain steady nutrient supply.
• Supplements: Discuss with your healthcare provider the possible use of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) and methylfolate (L-5-MTHF). Some people with this genotype benefit from targeted B vitamin support, and combining Riboflavin with methylfolate, B6, and B12 can support homocysteine metabolism.
• Monitoring: Consider checking homocysteine, RBC folate, and B12 levels to see whether supplementation is helping and to guide dosing.
• Lifestyle: Support gut health with fiber-rich foods and probiotics if recommended, minimize exposure to environmental toxins, maintain regular physical activity, and prioritize restorative sleep.
• Caution: Avoid self-prescribing high doses of vitamins without professional guidance. Work with your healthcare provider to tailor doses and monitor response.

If your genotype is AG at rs1801133, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This is associated with moderately reduced MTHFR enzyme efficiency. The enzyme still works, but conversion of folate to its active form may be less efficient than average.

Practical considerations

• Diet: Continue to include Riboflavin-rich foods (dairy, eggs, lean meats, mushrooms, almonds) and folate-rich options (leafy greens, legumes, beans). A balanced, nutrient-dense diet often provides the support needed.
• Supplements: You may consider Riboflavin and methylfolate if testing shows low folate or elevated homocysteine, or if symptoms suggest suboptimal methylation. Low to moderate supplemental doses are commonly used under provider guidance.
• Monitoring: If you start supplements, recheck homocysteine and folate levels to ensure an appropriate response and adjust as needed.
• Lifestyle: Supportive measures such as gut health, reduced toxin exposure, regular exercise, and good sleep remain important to optimize methylation capacity.
• Caution: Speak with your healthcare provider before starting supplements, particularly if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or taking medications.

If your genotype is GG at rs1801133, you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This genotype is associated with typical MTHFR enzyme function. Your enzyme should convert folate into its active form and help manage homocysteine levels at normal efficiency.

Practical considerations

• Diet: Maintain a balanced diet that includes Riboflavin-rich foods (dairy, eggs, lean meats, mushrooms) and folate-rich foods (leafy greens, legumes). A nutrient-dense diet supports methylation and overall health.
• Supplements: Most people with this genotype do not need special methylation-targeted supplements if they follow a healthy diet and have normal lab values. If you have symptoms or lab abnormalities, discuss personalized testing and supplementation with your healthcare provider.
• Monitoring: Routine wellness checks and occasional nutrient tests as advised by your provider can confirm that your methylation support is adequate.
• Lifestyle: Continue to support gut health, get regular exercise, sleep well, and minimize toxins to maintain optimal metabolic function.