By Russell Browne (Dip. Adv. Nut.) · Specialist in Genetic Nutrition & Methylation Protocols

G6PD is different from many genes discussed on this site: some G6PD variants can lead to a genuine, clinically recognised condition called G6PD deficiency. So while these are inherited variants, this one deserves a careful, medically grounded approach rather than casual interpretation.

What the G6PD gene does

G6PD provides instructions for the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, which helps protect red blood cells from oxidative damage. It is one of the most common enzyme variations worldwide, and the gene sits on the X chromosome.

G6PD deficiency — a genuine clinical condition

When G6PD enzyme activity is low enough, red blood cells become more vulnerable to breaking down (haemolysis). This can be triggered by certain medications, some infections, and specific foods — most well known being fava beans, which is why the condition is sometimes called “favism.” G6PD deficiency is a real medical condition that is diagnosed with a specific blood enzyme test and managed by identifying and avoiding known triggers under medical guidance. Critically, a consumer genetic report is not a diagnosis — it may flag a G6PD variant, but only proper clinical testing can establish whether G6PD deficiency is actually present, and how significant it is.

What the research shows

G6PD variants are well characterised, and G6PD deficiency is well established in the medical literature; the clinical significance depends on the specific variant and the resulting enzyme activity level. 

Our approach in practice

Because this can be clinically significant, our approach is simple and cautious: if a G6PD variant shows up in a report, we recommend proper medical assessment rather than any self-directed action. This is not something to interpret or manage from a genotype or a consumer report. If you think you may have G6PD deficiency, speak with your doctor about appropriate testing.

How to find your G6PD result

Your existing 23andMe or AncestryDNA raw data file may include G6PD markers, and a variant report can show what is present. For G6PD specifically, please treat this as a starting point only — not a diagnosis. Because G6PD deficiency, where present, can be triggered by certain medications and foods, it must be confirmed and managed medically. Any G6PD-related finding should be confirmed and interpreted through proper medical testing and a qualified doctor.

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Important medical note

This page is educational and is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment plan. Unlike many variants discussed on this site, G6PD can carry genuine clinical relevance, and a consumer genetic report is not a diagnosis. If a G6PD variant is relevant to you, certain medications, foods, and chemicals can trigger problems where deficiency is present — these must be identified and managed with a doctor, not self-diagnosed from raw data. Please do not make medical decisions based on a consumer genetic report; seek proper testing and guidance from a qualified doctor.

About the Author

Russell Browne (Dip. Adv. Nut.)
Specialist in Genetic Nutrition & Methylation Protocols

Russell Browne is a qualified practitioner of Advanced Nutrition, Advanced Herbalism, and Homeopathy, with a specialized clinical focus on genetic nutrition, methylation pathways, and detoxification. With years of dedicated clinical experience helping patients decode complex chronic health issues, Russell is also the author of How to Treat Your MTHFR Gene Mutations the Right Way – The Genetic Advantage and several works on genetic wellness. He is committed to bridging the gap between complex genetic data and practical, root-cause clinical care.

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