Tag: Inherited disorders

According to a 2018 review in *Genes & Nutrition*, the heritability of vitamin B12 levels is estimated to be approximately 59%, indicating a significant genetic influence. While diet is a primary factor, this means genetic predisposition can cause B12 deficiency to run in the family, especially through inherited conditions that impair absorption or transport.

According to a study published in *Nutrients*, low methionine levels in hospitalized patients were associated with increased mortality and functional decline. These findings underscore the importance of this essential amino acid, so understanding what it means when methionine is low is crucial for maintaining overall health.

While dietary deficiencies are a common culprit, some forms of iron deficiency anemia are directly caused by inherited gene mutations. These genetic variations interfere with the body's iron regulation, leading to a shortage even when iron intake is sufficient.

While true dietary deficiency of vitamin H (biotin) is extremely rare in developed countries, a more common cause of biotin deficiency and the diseases it causes is a genetic disorder called biotinidase deficiency. This inherited metabolic condition prevents the body from recycling biotin, leading to a host of health issues if left untreated.

Affecting over 400 million people worldwide, G6PD deficiency is a genetic condition that requires careful management. A common question for those with this condition is: **Is iron safe for G6PD patients?** The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends entirely on a correct diagnosis and careful medical supervision.

While iron deficiency is a common nutritional concern, with iron overload from food being rare in healthy individuals, it's a serious risk for those with a genetic condition called hemochromatosis. The body has a complex regulatory system to control how much iron it absorbs from the foods we eat, making it highly unlikely for most people to ingest a toxic amount from their diet alone. However, this natural safeguard is compromised in certain circumstances.

Protein malabsorption is a condition that affects how the body absorbs nutrients, with estimates suggesting millions of individuals worldwide experience some form of malabsorption. Learning to recognize what are the symptoms of not being able to break down protein is crucial for early detection and proper management of the underlying cause.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency is a rare but treatable condition that can severely impact cellular energy production and function. For those diagnosed, effective treatment hinges on targeted, high-dose oral CoQ10 supplementation to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

According to the G6PD Deficiency Foundation, fava beans are the food best known for precipitating symptomatic attacks of hemolytic anemia in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. For those with this inherited condition, exposure to specific dietary and chemical triggers can lead to the rapid destruction of red blood cells. Understanding what foods trigger hemolytic anemia is a crucial step in managing the condition and preventing a potentially life-threatening hemolytic crisis.

While biotin deficiency is rare, medical data shows that at least a third of pregnant women may experience marginal biotin deficiency. A lack of this essential nutrient can trigger a range of noticeable symptoms, including hair loss, skin rashes, and fatigue.