Understanding the role of the MTHFR gene and how it affects your overall health and well-being can help you make informed decisions if you have an MTHFR gene mutation. Read on to learn more about how you can keep your health at its peak.
What is the MTHFR Gene?
The MTHFR gene provides instructions for your body to make a protein called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (or MTHFR). This enzyme is vital in processing amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. One specific function of the MTHFR enzyme is to convert an amino acid called homocysteine into another amino acid, methionine, which your body needs for normal metabolism and growth as well as a host of other vital functions.
Methylation is the process that your body goes through to convert material from a non-usable form to a usable form. An example is the folate cycle which takes dietary folate found in leafy green vegetables and turns it into the usable form, methylfolate. This process is incredibly important because it can have an effect on everything from the quality of your sleep to how much anxiety and depression you feel throughout the day. It can also affect your gut health, your body’s response to exercise, and your libido. For pregnant people, their ability to absorb and use b vitamins is crucial for their child’s development.
MTHFR gene mutations and methylation are connected because the first can disrupt the second, leading to a negative impact on your quality of life and longevity.
How Do You Know If You Have the MTHFR Gene Mutation?
Everyone has the MTHFR gene, but variations (mutations) can affect how well your MTHFR enzyme functions. To determine if you have a mutation in your MTHFR gene, you can consult with a healthcare provider. Your doctor can order a more specific test to look for MTHFR gene mutations, letting you know which type you may have and what that means for your health.
At Medical Transformation Center, we work hard to demystify the topic of MTHFR gene mutations by helping patients:
- Understand the science behind the mutation
- See how it may affect crucial processes such as folate absorption and methylation
- Discover steps to support your body’s normal functioning if an MTHFR gene mutation is present.
What to Do If You Have an MTHFR Gene Mutation?
If you discover that you have an MTHFR gene mutation, taking steps to manage your health becomes crucial. Here are some recommendations:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always start by talking to a healthcare provider who understands the implications of MTHFR mutations.
- Monitor Homocysteine Levels: Elevated homocysteine levels can lead to health issues including cardiovascular diseases. Regular monitoring can help manage risks.
- Implement Measures to Support Your Body: You can help mitigate the effects of MTHFR gene mutations by changing your diet, giving your body methylated b vitamins and taking other measures so that you are able to function normally.
What Can You Eat If You Have the MTHFR Gene Mutation?
Your diet and supplement (see below) intake can play a significant role in managing MTHFR-related issues. If you have an MTHFR gene mutation, your MTHFR enzyme is already having a hard time producing methylated b vitamins. This can lead to a variety of health issues that can be supported by your diet. Consider the following dietary adjustments:
- Limit Leaky Gut Trigger Foods. Those with MTHFR gene mutations are more prone to inflammation, immunity and other issues. If you suffer from gut permeability, it is a good idea to limit trigger foods like: fried food and dairy products.
- Reduce Sugar Intake. Refined, natural, and artificial sweeteners can all cause inflammation.
- Avoid Products Containing Fortified Folic Acid. One of the most important dietary changes for individuals with an MTHFR mutation is avoiding synthetic folic acid, found in many fortified foods and supplements. Instead, opt for natural forms of vitamin B9, such as methylfolate. Here’s what you should focus on:
- Avoid Processed Foods: Processed foods often contain synthetic folic acid, which can be harder for your body to process if you have an MTHFR mutation.
- Limit Alcohol: Alcohol consumption should be limited to the bare minimum. If you do drink, spirits are a better choice than beer or most wines.
- Eat Whole Foods: Focus on a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. Leafy greens, liver, and legumes are excellent sources of natural folate. Other good options include beans and lentils, asparagus, broccoli, and avocado.
What Supplements Should You Take If You Have the MTHFR Gene Mutation?
Supplements can support your health by providing nutrients that you may struggle to create or that may help you process other nutrients due to an MTHFR mutation.It’s so important to give your body the methylated b vitamins it needs to function.
Because those with MTHFR gene mutations either have difficulty with or simply cannot turn b vitamins into their methylated, bioavailable (or usable) form, they need extra support to be able to absorb these vital nutrients. Thus, it’s imperative that those with these gene mutations find supplements that contain methylated b vitamins. This can actually prove to be quite difficult, as most supplements and IV nutrient infusions are not formulated with the bioavailable form of b vitamins or the enzymes necessary to transform b vitamins into their usable form. For instance, as mentioned, folic acid is a synthetic version of folate and can be problematic for those with MTHFR mutations, because they are unable to absorb them. So, those with this mutation should choose supplements that contain methylfolate instead.
Those without MTHFR gene mutations can also take methylated b vitamins, so in our supplement and lifestyle brand, Regenavita, we have chosen to have only methylated b’s in all of our products. This way, no matter your MTHFR status, you’re able to absorb our products and receive maximum benefit.
Here are some of our MTHFR gene mutation friendly supplements:
- RegenaB12VitalFol lozenges are a potent mix of three bioavailable forms of vitamin B12 and natural active folate for peak absorption. They are designed to ensure healthy levels and optimize the nutrients naturally present in food, providing your body with the active intracellular forms of B12. Click here.
- RegenaHeart&BrainHealth is an ideal choice for those seeking cardiovascular support, those with methylation problems, or those aiming to enhance cognitive function. It’s enriched with powerful bioactive forms of vitamins B2, B6, B12, and folate, along with trimethylglycine, all contributing to healthy homocysteine metabolism. The balanced and efficient homocysteine pathway provides essential biochemical elements necessary for detoxification, effective immune function, proper joint and cartilage structuring, and optimal brain and cardiovascular health. Click here
- RegenaMitochondrialLife optimizes your mitochondrial health with its advanced formula. We provide a blend of essential ingredients like CoQ10, B vitamins, and R-lipoic acid that power your energy production and antioxidant replenishment. Our product also includes D-Ribose, L-carnitine, resveratrol, curcumin, malic and succinic acid (for bolstering mitochondrial function). Together, these ingredients ensure your mitochondria get the necessary fuel for their indispensable cellular work. Click here.
- RegenaMultiUltra is the ultimate multivitamin, mineral and phytonutrient supplement designed to cater to your daily health needs. Perfect for supporting general health including those with an MTHFR gene mutation, it aims to mimic the nutrient content of an optimal primal human diet. It’s not just a supplement, it’s a tool for a healthier, well-rounded lifestyle. Click here
Understanding and managing the MTHFR gene mutation can significantly impact your health. If you suspect or know you have this mutation, consult with a healthcare professional and consider dietary and supplemental adjustments to manage your condition effectively.
Live in the Louisville area? Our physicians at Medical Transformation Center have extensive knowledge in this area and are currently accepting new patients. Contact us today for a consultation!
