165: Genetics, B Vitamins, & ADHD: What Parents Need to Know with Dana Ka

In this eye-opening episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay explores the connection between B vitamins and ADHD in children. From emotional outbursts and brain fog to poor sleep and focus issues, Dana shares why certain B vitamins—especially B6, B9 (folate), and B12—may be at the root of lingering challenges, even when parents have cleaned up their child’s diet and added supplements. She breaks down how genetics like the MTHFR, SHMT1, and FUT2 mutations can affect how kids process these nutrients and why getting the “wrong” form of a vitamin might be making things worse instead of better.

With clear explanations and actionable tips, Dana outlines how to use food, testing, and smart supplementation to support methylation, neurotransmitter production, detox, and more. Whether you’re totally new to B vitamins or you’ve already tried some without results, this episode delivers the must-know science behind one of the most overlooked pieces of the ADHD puzzle. If you’re ready to go beyond generic advice and support your child based on their unique needs, this episode is a must-listen.

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

• Vitamin B Cheat Sheet - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplement-for-adhd-vitamin-b 

• My Favorite Place to Buy Supplements - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplements 

• My Favorite Whole Food Based Vitamin B Supplement - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/grass-fed-organ-complex-180-capsules.html    

• **My Favorite B-Complex (**Methylated) - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/liposomal-b-supreme-1-7-fl-oz-50-ml.html 

• My Favorite B-Complex (Methyl-Free) - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/b-complex-mf-methyl-free-100-capsules.html 

• Links to Previous Episodes in this Supplements for ADHD Series:

• Magnesium -  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-93/ 

• Saffron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-136/ 

• GABA - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-137/ 

• L-Theanine - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-142/ 

• Bio Essentials - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-144/ 

• Omegas - ​​ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-146/ 

• Iron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-148/ 

• Zinc - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-152/ 

• Vitamin D - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-150/ 

• Zembrin - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-154/ 

• Herbs - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-156/   

Key Takeaways:

[1:47] Real Parent Stories: “Why Isn’t It Working?”
[5:02] Why B Vitamins Matter for ADHD
[8:05] The Importance of B6 for Mood & Sleep
[8:39] Folate (B9) and the MTHFR Gene
[13:28] What to Know About Genetic Testing
[14:00] SHMT1, Folinic Acid, and Methylation
[16:06] B12, FUT2, and Hidden Absorption Issues
[16:25] Choosing the Right Supplements
[18:16] Methylation: The Overlooked Powerhouse
[17:59] Action Steps for Parents

Memorable Moments:

"If your child has ADHD and you’ve never looked into B vitamins, you could be missing a critical piece of the puzzle."

"B vitamins aren’t just about boosting energy or immunity—they’re essential for brain development, detoxification, mood regulation, sleep, and focus."

"Many kids with ADHD—and especially those with MTHFR gene mutations—can’t effectively convert synthetic folic acid into the active form."

"Methylation is like your body’s traffic director."

"If methylation isn’t working… nothing works properly."

"Your child’s bloodwork might show normal B12 levels, but if their FUT2 gene isn’t working properly, they still may not be absorbing or using that B12."

"Methyl-B12 or methylfolate might be powerful keys—but if they don’t fit your child’s lock, they just won’t work."

"Working with a practitioner to trial supplements cautiously—and monitor responses—is key."

"Food-based supplements can be a practical way to increase B vitamin intake for kids who struggle with whole-food sources."

"I’m proud of you. You’re doing the hard work. You’re learning, showing up, and fighting for your child’s health. And that matters."

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

• https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
• https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

• Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

• Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

• ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
• ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
• Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY