Can Low Vitamin D Be Genetic? – Personalised Insight Into Vitamin D Response

We look at over 900,000 SNP’s and use the latest AI powered software to analyse over 80 million variants that significantly influence your health.

If your vitamin D levels stay low despite supplements, you’re not alone. For some people, the issue isn’t intake – it’s how the body processes and responds to vitamin D. One potential factor is your genes.

At Life X DNA, our reports include analysis of key vitamin D–related genes. Our at-home kits are available across Australia and New Zealand and provide personalised insight into nutrient metabolism, including vitamin D.

Genetic Methylation Tests Melbourne

Why Is My Vitamin D Low Despite Supplements?

Vitamin D status depends on more than just how much you take. Some people consistently show low or borderline levels even with sun exposure or daily supplements.

This may be influenced by inherited differences in:

  • How vitamin D is activated
  • How it is transported in the bloodstream
  • How well your cells respond to it

In these cases, standard supplementation might not deliver the expected benefits.

Genetic Causes of Low Vitamin D

Several genes are involved in how your body handles vitamin D:

  • VDR – affects how cells recognise and respond to vitamin D
  • CYP2R1 – converts vitamin D into its active form
  • GC – binds and carries vitamin D through the bloodstream
  • CYP24A1 – breaks down active vitamin D when levels are high

Variants in these genes may affect responsiveness to supplementation, cellular uptake, or hormone signalling – all without showing up on a basic vitamin D blood test.

MTHFR Tests Melbourne
DNA Health Tests Melbourne

Vitamin D Not Working – Could It Be Genetic?

If you’ve tried multiple supplements or increased your dosage without change, genetics may help explain why. DNA testing won’t diagnose a deficiency, but it may reveal why your body isn’t responding efficiently.

Your Life X DNA report may highlight:

  • Reduced cellular sensitivity to vitamin D
  • Transport or receptor pathway issues
  • Overactive breakdown of activated vitamin D
  • Interactions with other genes that affect bone or immune health

What Genes Affect Vitamin D Absorption and Use?

Your report includes vitamin D–related insights as part of the nutrient metabolism section. These include:

  • Receptor activity (VDR gene)
  • Enzyme function for activation and clearance
  • Protein transport efficiency
  • Downstream effects on calcium, inflammation and immune balance

All reports are delivered via a secure online portal and include over 1200 pages of genetic analysis. Kits are processed locally in our ISO-certified Perth lab.

Genetic Methylation Tests New Zealand

Available in Australia and New Zealand

Life X DNA kits are available throughout Australia and New Zealand. Return shipping is included. Your data is protected, not shared or sold, and used only to generate your private report.

FAQs – Genetics and Vitamin D

Yes. Genes like VDR, CYP2R1 and GC can influence how your body activates, transports or responds to vitamin D.

No. It shows genetic factors that may impact your ability to use or benefit from vitamin D.

You’ll see gene-by-gene breakdowns of vitamin D–related pathways, plus interpretation and lifestyle context.

Order a Life X DNA kit online, use the cheek swab at home, and return your sample to our local lab. Results are delivered securely through our online portal.