More and more people are utilizing supplements to maintain their health. However, are you taking them without understanding what nutrients you really need? By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to scientifically select the best supplements for your constitution. This article explains how to choose supplements based on genetic information and the best way to consume each nutrient.
1. What is the use of genetic information in selecting supplements?
① Relationship between genes and nutrition
We know that our genes determine how efficiently our bodies absorb and metabolize nutrients. For example, people with one genotype can utilize vitamin D efficiently in the body, while people with another genotype need to supplement.
② What genetic testing can tell us
Genetic testing can provide the following information
| (data) item | What can be analyzed | Related Nutrients |
| vitamin metabolism | Difference in absorption efficiency | Vitamin D, B vitamins, folic acid |
| Mineral absorption | Mineral requirements | Iron, magnesium, zinc |
| caffeine metabolism | Effects of caffeine | Need to limit caffeine |
| Countermeasures against reactive oxygen species | Antioxidant capacity | Vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione |
reference: (nature.com)
2. Optimal supplementation by nutrient based on genetic information
① Vitamin D and the VDR gene
Vitamin D is an important nutrient involved in bone health and immune function, but polymorphisms in the VDR (vitamin D receptor) gene result in different efficiencies of utilization by the body.
Effects of the VDR gene:
- People with low activity of the VDR gene: poor absorption of vitamin D, which can lead to decreased bone density and reduced immunity.
- People with a highly active VDR gene: can utilize vitamin D efficiently, so dietary intake is sufficient.
Suitable supplements:
- Low active form: 1000-2000 IU vitamin D3 supplements per day.
- Highly active type: can produce sufficient vitamin D with sun exposure (15-30 min/day).
reference: (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
② Folic acid and the MTHFR gene
Folic acid is important for DNA synthesis and maintenance of neurological function, but polymorphisms in the MTHFR gene differ in their ability to activate folic acid in the body.
MTHFR gene effects:.
- People with C677T mutation: low folate metabolism, increased risk of neurological and vascular diseases.
- People without mutations: No problem with normal dietary intake of folic acid.
Suitable supplements:
- People with MTHFR mutation: Active folic acid (5-MTHF) improves absorption.
- People without mutations: folic acid intake from vegetables (spinach, broccoli) is sufficient.
reference: (seikagaku.jbsoc.or.jp)
③ Iron and the TMPRSS6 gene
Iron is a mineral necessary for red blood cell production, but the TMPRSS6 gene affects the ability to absorb iron.
TMPRSS6 gene effects:
- Low-absorption type: Iron absorption is poor, leading to anemia.
- High-absorption type: Iron absorption from the diet is sufficient.
Suitable supplements:
- Low-absorption type: Take a heme iron supplement and take it with vitamin C to improve absorption.
- High absorption type: Consciously eat liver, lean meat, and spinach.
reference: (bloodjournal.org)
④ Caffeine metabolism and the CYP1A2 gene
Caffeine affects people differently depending on their CYP1A2 gene, and those with slower metabolism are more susceptible to the effects of caffeine.
CYP1A2 gene effects:
- Low-metabolism type: Caffeine remains in the body for a long time, causing insomnia and heart palpitations.
- High-metabolism type: Can break down caffeine quickly and can be ingested without problems.
Suitable supplements:
- Low metabolic type: choose caffeine-free supplements (green tea extract, L-theanine).
- High metabolic type: moderate amounts of caffeine intake can improve concentration.
reference: (sciencedirect.com)
⑤ Antioxidant effects and the SOD2 gene
The SOD2 (superoxide dismutase) gene removes reactive oxygen species and protects cells.
SOD2 gene effects:
- Low active form: low antioxidant capacity, increased risk of aging and chronic disease.
- Highly active: The body’s antioxidant defense system is strong.
Suitable supplements:
- Low active form: vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione are recommended.
- Highly active type: dietary antioxidants (blueberries, green tea) are sufficient.
reference: (frontiersin.org)
3. How to Practice Genetically Informed Supplementation
Even if you are able to select an appropriate supplement based on the results of a genetic test, if you make a mistake in how or when you take it, you may not get the full benefit. This section details the best way to take supplements based on genotype.
① Proper timing of supplement intake
Given the genetic information, the timing of supplementation is also important.
| nutrient | Recommended timing | reason |
| vitamin D | breakfast time | Fat-soluble vitamins, so absorption rate improves when taken with meals |
| Folic acid (5-MTHF) | breakfast time | Aids energy metabolism and supports nerve function |
| iron (content) | At breakfast or lunch | Improved absorption rate when taken with vitamin C |
| L-theanine for slow metabolizers of caffeine | Evening – Night | Relieves the effects of caffeine and promotes relaxation |
| Antioxidant supplements (vitamin C and E) | evening | Supports cell repair at night and contributes to the prevention of aging献 |
Practices:
- Identify supplements that should be taken with meals to increase absorption.
- Taking the right nutrients (antioxidants, relaxing ingredients) before bedtime improves the quality of sleep.
- Adjust the time of intake according to genotype for maximum benefit.
reference: (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
② Appropriate dosage of supplements based on genotype
Supplement intake may also vary by genotype.
Example: Appropriate amount of vitamin D (influence of VDR gene)
- People with low activity of the VDR gene: 2000 IU or more of vitamin D is recommended (sun exposure alone is insufficient).
- Persons with highly active VDR gene: 1000 IU or less is sufficient (adequate amounts can be obtained through diet and sun exposure).
Example: Appropriate amount of iron (influence of TMPRSS6 gene)
- Low iron absorption: 25-50 mg of heme iron recommended (take with vitamin C to increase absorption).
- High iron absorption: 10-15 mg is sufficient (overdose risks iron overload).
Practices:
- Identify the proper amount of supplements for each genotype to prevent deficiency or excess.
- Blood tests are taken regularly to monitor the effectiveness of the supplements.
reference: (nature.com)
③ Consider components that interact with genes
Depending on the genotype, certain nutrients have been shown to increase the benefits when taken together.
Nutrients that increase effectiveness when combined:
| Nutrients A | Nutrients B | effect |
| vitamin D | magnesium (Mg) | Supports vitamin D activation |
| Folic acid (5-MTHF) | vitamin B12 | Enhances DNA synthesis and neurological function |
| iron (content) | vitamin C | Improved iron absorption |
| Omega-3 (DHA/EPA) | vitamin E | Enhances antioxidant activity and improves cardiovascular function |
| caffeine | L-Theanine | Caffeine soothes irritation and keeps you focused. |
Practices:
- Maximize effectiveness by combining compatible nutrients.
- Plan supplementation according to genotype, taking into account interactions.
reference: (sciencedirect.com)
④ Checklist for selecting supplements based on genotype
The following checklist can be used to help you choose supplements based on genetic information.
✅ Have you undergone genetic testing to identify the nutrients you need?
✅ Are the ingredients of the supplement suitable for your genotype?
✅ Do you understand when to take it and the proper amount?
✅ Are they combining compatible nutrients?
✅ Do they take into account the risk of overdose?
It is important to use this checklist to help you plan a more effective supplementation plan.
reference: (bmj.com)
⑤ The Future of Personal Supplements Using AI and Genetic Information
In recent years, personalized supplements combining AI and genetic analysis have begun to appear.
AI-powered modern health care:
- Analyzes genetic information and lifestyle habits, and automatically suggests personalized supplements.
- Combines blood test data and adjusts nutrient requirements in real time.
- Linked to smart devices, AI analyzes the timing and effects of intake.
Future Prospects:
- Customized supplements based on an individual’s genotype are becoming more common.
- Enables fully personalized health management based on genetic information in collaboration with medical institutions.
- Food manufacturers use genetic data to develop foods and beverages optimized for genotype.
reference: (thelancet.com)
4. The Future of Genetically Informed Supplements and Their Impact on Society
The widespread use of genetic information to select supplements is advancing personalized nutritional management and establishing a new standard for health maintenance. This section details future technological developments and their impact on society.
① Completely customized supplements based on genetic information
Currently, many supplements are designed for everyone, but it is believed that in the future, supplements will be developed based on genetic information and customized for each individual.
Customized Supplement Features:
- Based on the results of genetic testing, the ingredients are formulated to suit the individual’s constitution.
- The balance of ingredients can be adjusted according to changes in physical condition and environment.
- Provides the optimal ratio of formulas, taking into account interactions with foods and medications.
Feasible Technologies:
- Generation of custom-made supplements utilizing 3D printers.
- Generation of custom-made supplements utilizing 3D printers; AI analyzes genetic data and adjusts necessary nutrients in real time.
- Development of nano supplements with enhanced absorption rate using smart capsule technology.
reference: (cell.com)
② Personalized Food” through collaboration between genetic information and the food industry
We are approaching an era in which not only supplements based on genetic data, but also the daily diet itself will be personalized.
Expected future food evolution:
- Development of nutritionally fortified foods according to genotype.
- Example：Fortified milk for those prone to vitamin D deficiency and fortified cereal for those with low iron absorption.
- Supermarket recommendation function based on genetic information.
- Example：This service is linked to a smartphone application and suggests foods that match your genes.
- Widespread use of home delivery services for made-to-order food products.
- Example：A service that delivers foods containing the optimal nutrients for your genotype to your home.
reference: (nature.com)
③ The Role of Disease Prevention and Supplements Using Genetic Information
If a person’s genotype is known to predispose him or her to a particular disease, early action can be taken. Supplements are expected to play a preventive role as part of this process.
Typical Genetic Risk and Supplementation Relationships:
| gene | Related Diseases | Recommended Supplements |
| APOE4 | Alzheimer’s disease | DHA, EPA, B vitamins |
| TCF7L2 | Type 2 diabetes | Magnesium, chromium, alpha lipoic acid |
| MTHFR | cardiovascular disease | 5-MTHF (active folic acid), vitamin B12 |
| VDR | osteoporosis | Vitamin D3, calcium, magnesium |
Genotype-based prevention strategies in practice:
- Individuals at high risk of dementia: Continued intake of supplements containing DHA and EPA promotes protection of nerve cells.
- People at high risk for diabetes: combine exercise with appropriate supplementation of nutrients to stabilize blood glucose levels.
- People prone to bone density loss: manage vitamin D and calcium intake according to genotype.
reference: (diabetesjournals.org)
④ Evolution of the Supplement Market and Commercial Use of Genetic Information
The market for genetic supplements is growing rapidly, and many companies are entering this field.
Current market trends:
- Sales of personalized supplements soared.
- Widespread use of AI-based genetic data analysis services.
- Collaboration between the healthcare and food industries is accelerating.
Future issues and concerns:
- Need to manage privacy of genetic data.
- Develop regulations to prevent inappropriate use of genetic information by companies.
- Appropriate information based on scientific evidence must be provided.
reference: (bmj.com)
⑤ Next-generation health care services utilizing genetic information and supplements
It is predicted that genetic supplements and health care services will be integrated to enable more sophisticated health management in the future.
Next Generation Health Care Opportunities:
- Automation of health care by AI.
- AI integrates genetic data with daily diet and exercise data to propose optimal supplement intake plans.
- Linkage with wearable devices.
- Real-time analysis of nutritional status in conjunction with smartwatches and blood glucose monitoring devices.
- Collaboration with medical institutions to promote precision nutritional therapy.
- Individualized nutritional guidance based on genotype is provided by a physician and nutritionist.
Future Prospects:
- An integrated “Supplement x Medical x AI” system optimized for each individual is established.
- In collaboration with companies and insurance companies, health insurance plans based on genotype are now available.
- The government has established official guidelines on genetic nutrition to promote reliable information.
reference: (thelancet.com)
5. Future Prospects for Genetic Information and the Supplement Market
The market for genetically-based supplements has grown rapidly in recent years. Advances in technology and science are further advancing this field, especially as the need for personalized and optimized health care increases.
① Expanding the market for supplements using genetic information
Market Size and Growth Projections
- In recent years, the personalized supplement market has been growing at more than 10% per year and is projected to reach tens of billions of dollars by 2030.
- Developments in AI and genetic analysis technology are enabling companies to develop more precise supplements.
- In particular, personalized nutrition is growing rapidly in North America and Europe, with the Japanese and Asian markets following suit.
Major Players and Technology Evolution
- Companies such as 23andMe, Habit, and DNAfit offer health management programs that utilize genetic data.
- CRISPR technology and AI analysis can be used to provide more personalized nutritional advice.
- The secure management of genetic data using blockchain technology has also progressed.
reference: (marketwatch.com)
② Research and development of supplements using genetic information
Latest Research Trends
Research on supplements utilizing genetic information is underway in medical institutions and university laboratories.
| Research Institution | Research | Expected Effects |
| Harvard University | Differences in Vitamin D Absorption by Genotype | Osteoporosis risk reduction |
| Stanford University | Relationship between omega-3 fatty acid metabolism and genes | Cardiovascular Disease Risk Management |
| The University of Tokyo | Interaction between gut bacteria and genes to optimize nutrient absorption | Improved digestive function |
reference: (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Development of innovative supplements
- Smart Supplement” by DNA Analysis
- Supplements that automatically formulate nutrients based on an individual’s genetic information are now available.
- AI monitors your health in real time and adjusts the nutrients you need.
- Targeted Release capsule technology
- Technology that releases ingredients at the optimum timing according to the body’s metabolic speed.
- Example: capsules that release caffeine gradually over time for those who are slow metabolizers of caffeine.
reference: (nature.com)
③ Linkage with health insurance using genetic information
Use of genetic data by insurance companies
- Some insurance companies offer health care plans that utilize genetic information.
- For example, health insurance plans are now available that subsidize appropriate supplements for people at high risk for lifestyle-related diseases.
- A mechanism is also being considered that would allow people to receive discounts on premiums by undergoing “individualized health programs” based on their genotypes.
Ethical Issues and the Need for Regulation
- Privacy protection of genetic data is a top priority.
- Strict rules are needed to ensure that insurance companies do not discriminate on the basis of genetic information.
- The government is required to establish guidelines for the proper use of genetic information.
reference: (bmj.com)
④ Evolution of next-generation health care services using genetic information
Working with Smart Devices
- Linking genetic information with wearable devices (smartwatches, continuous glucose monitoring devices) to optimize health management.
- A system that monitors vitamin and mineral status in real time and replenishes missing nutrients.
Cooperation with medical institutions
- Hospitals and clinics propose individualized nutritional management based on genetic information.
- Doctors and AI work together to provide “Personalized Medical Nutrition”.
reference: (thelancet.com)
⑤ Predicting the Future of Personalized Supplements Using Genetic Information
Projections for the next 10 years:
| date | Technological Advances | Anticipated Impact |
| 2025 | Evolution of AI Analysis | Personalized supplements using genetic data are becoming popular. |
| 2030 | Smart Supplement Comes to the Market | AI adjusts necessary nutrients in real time |
| 2040 | Evolution of Gene Editing Technology | 予防医療としての遺伝子調整が一般化 |
Technology expected to be realized:
- Ultra-highly absorbable supplement utilizing nanotechnology.
- Automated nutrition management system integrates with smart devices to optimize daily nutrients.
- Nutritional therapy that fundamentally reduces disease risk” by gene editing is put to practical use.
reference: (cell.com)
6. Challenges and Future Prospects for Personalized Supplements Using Genetic Information
The market for genetically-based supplements is growing rapidly, but there are also many challenges. We will take a closer look at some of the areas that need to be overcome, including strengthening scientific evidence, ethical issues, and regulatory development.
① Establishing scientific evidence and advancing research
More clinical trials and long-term studies are needed to improve the efficacy of genetically informed supplements.
Current issues:
- Although there is a growing body of research on the relationship between genes and nutrients, not all correlations have been established.
- Simple genetic analysis is not enough, as lifestyle and environmental factors influence health in addition to genotype.
- Need to accumulate data on various racial and ethnic groups.
Future Prospects:
- Increase long-term epidemiological studies to build more reliable data.
- Developed a genetic nutrition model incorporating diverse lifestyle factors using AI and big data.
- Collaboration with international research institutions to more precisely elucidate the relationship between genetic information and nutrients.
reference: (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
② Ethical Issues and Privacy Protection
While genetic information is increasingly being used, personal data management and ethical issues are also important issues to be discussed.
Concerns:
- Potential for genetic data to be used inappropriately by insurance companies and corporations.
- Risk of overemphasis on personal health risks and rampant anxiety marketing.
- Laws to prevent invasion of privacy have not kept pace.
Solution:
- Governments and regulatory agencies establish clear rules for the handling of genetic information.
- Data anonymization technology is utilized to ensure privacy.
- Ensure transparency in the use of genetic information (make provision of information mandatory, strengthen user’s right to choose).
reference: (bmj.com)
③ Price and accessibility issues
Genetic supplements are currently an expensive service and not readily available to everyone.
Current issues:
- The cost of genetic testing itself remains high.
- Development costs for customized supplements are high and mass production is difficult.
- It will take time to spread to a price range where ordinary consumers can easily use it.
Future solutions:
- Technology advancements and market expansion will lower the price of genetic testing and customized supplements.
- Expand insurance coverage and incorporate into government health promotion programs.
- The proliferation of subscription-based services with fixed prices makes them accessible to a wider audience.
reference: (thelancet.com)
summary
The use of genetic information will enable the optimal selection of supplements for individuals and improve the accuracy of health maintenance and disease prevention; a future in which real-time health management will evolve and personalized nutrition will become commonplace through linkage with AI and smart devices is expected. On the other hand, proper management and ethical considerations are necessary, as protecting data privacy and establishing scientific evidence are challenges. Nutritional management using genetic information will further develop as an important field contributing to the extension of healthy life expectancy.
