Is Your Multivitamin Working? How the MTHFR Gene Could Be Blocking Its Benefits

Smiling woman holding a baby in a cozy room with plants.

Allison Bingham

Published on:

Jul 20, 2025

In partnership with Wild Foods. Editor's Note: We only select and work with partners that meet our quality standards.

For years, multivitamins have been marketed as simple, catch-all solutions to fill nutritional gaps.

The idea is appealing: take a daily pill, and you’re covered — no matter who you are or what your body needs.

But the truth is, a “one-size-fits-all” multivitamin rarely fits anyone perfectly.

Your body is unique. Your genes, lifestyle, diet, and health history all influence which nutrients you need and how well your body absorbs them.

Unfortunately, most conventional multivitamins don’t take these crucial factors into account.

One major reason your multivitamin might not be working?

Genetics — specifically a common mutation in the MTHFR gene that affects nearly 40% of people.

This mutation can make it difficult for your body to convert standard vitamin forms into the active nutrients your cells need to thrive.

If you’re taking a multivitamin with synthetic ingredients like folic acid or cyanocobalamin (a common form of B12), your body may be struggling to use these vitamins effectively.

This can lead to ongoing symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or low energy — even if you’re religiously taking your daily pill.

This is why a personalized approach to supplementation is vital.

Why Genetic Differences Matter

The MTHFR gene plays a critical role in a process called methylation — a biochemical cycle that regulates over 200 functions in your body, including detoxification, hormone regulation, and neurotransmitter production.

If you have the MTHFR mutation, your body may have trouble activating essential B vitamins like folate and B12.

This means even if you consume enough vitamins, your cells might not be able to use them.

Taking generic multivitamins without considering this can leave you nutrient-deficient, despite your best efforts.

The Problem with “One-Size-Fits-All” Multivitamins

Most multis are designed for mass consumption.

They contain synthetic vitamin forms and fillers, aiming to cover a broad audience rather than individual needs.

These formulas often

Use folic acid instead of methylfolate, which can block proper absorption

Contain cyanocobalamin instead of methylcobalamin, the active form of B12

Lack essential cofactors like vitamin B6, magnesium, riboflavin, and choline that support nutrient metabolism

Ignore genetic differences that impact how your body processes vitamins

How to Personalize Your Vitamin Routine

Include methylated vitamins — methylfolate (5-MTHF) and methylcobalamin — which are active, bioavailable forms your body can use directly

Provide supporting cofactors essential for methylation and nutrient metabolism

Be tailored for your unique genetics and lifestyle to ensure maximum absorption and effect

Ready for a vitamin designed just for you? Meet Wild Methyl Multi — formulated with activated B vitamins and essential cofactors to bypass genetic limitations like the MTHFR mutation.

Introducing Methylated Multivitamins

Modern formulas like Wild Methyl Multi are designed with personalization in mind. They contain activated B vitamins and cofactors formulated to bypass genetic limitations, including MTHFR mutations.

Users often report improved energy, better focus, and reduced brain fog after switching.

Julie M., 63, shares, “After switching to a methylated multi, I finally felt a difference. My focus improved, my mood balanced out, and I felt more like myself.”

✅ It’s Not Just What You Take—It’s What Your Body Can Use: Make The Methlated Switch

Multivitamins aren’t all created equal—and for nearly half the population, genetic variations like the MTHFR mutation could be making a big difference in how those nutrients are processed.

If you’ve been doing “everything right” and still don’t feel your best, it might not be your routine—it might be your vitamins.

🩺 “We now know that bioavailability matters more than ever. Methylated vitamins can bypass common genetic limitations and actually deliver the benefits people are looking for.”

-Dr. Laura Kim, Nutrigenomics Specialist

💬 “I switched to a methylated multivitamin after years of feeling tired and foggy despite taking my daily multi. Within a week, I felt clearer and more energized. This is the first supplement I’ve actually felt working.”

-Diane T., 64, Verified Customer