05/06/2026
Two people eat the same pumpkin.
One makes plenty of Vitamin A.
The other makes very little.
Why?
Your DNA.
Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene, which your body can convert into Vitamin A.
But that conversion isn’t the same for everyone.
It depends on a key enzyme: BCMO1.
Some people carry genetic variants that can reduce this conversion by up to 70%.
In fact, around 45% of people are slow converters.
So they can:
• eat plenty of beta-carotene
• yet still produce less Vitamin A
This is especially important for:
• vegans
• plant-based diets
Because true Vitamin A (retinol) is only found in animal foods.
Same food.
Different outcome.
Your genetics influence how your body uses nutrients - not just what you eat.
That’s why personalised nutrition matters.