Every person’s health story is different. The information below explains common causes and contributing factors for this issue, but it is not a one‑size‑fits‑all prescription.
As a qualified naturopath practising in Adelaide’s CBD, I take the time to understand your unique circumstances, use targeted testing when needed, and design a personalised care plan so you can feel and function at your best.
MTHFR Genetic Issues
In recent years, advances in testing procedures of genetic markers have led to ease in screening for mutations in the MTHFR genes. Variations of these genes affect up to 35% of the population.
These genetic errors may be associated with a range of long-term conditions, from anxiety, depression, inflammation, reduced ability to break down estrogens, reduced fertility, heart disease, and dementia.
The MTHFR genes are about your capacity to absorb folate from green veggies and other food sources. Folate is part of the Vitamin B group and is essential for a major metabolic process called Methylation.
Methylation is a foundation for detoxing everything from your hormones to medications, breaking down cholesterol and producing energy. Your well-being is influenced by balancing neurotransmitters and hormones such as dopamine, histamine, melatonin, and estrogen and their excretion via the Methylation process.
Other issues that may influence Methylation include a diet high in fats, sugars, coffee and alcohol, disturbed digestion (leaky gut, food reactivity), smoking, stress, low thyroid function, insulin resistance, and vegetarian diets (due to low Vitamin B12).
The goal is to have optimal folate levels. It is possible to have no gene mutations, plus a poor diet resulting in low folate levels. It is also possible to have MTHFR gene mutations along with a great diet and optimal folate levels. Diet and lifestyle are important contributors to optimal health.
Fortunately, if you have a confirmed MTHFR mutation, you can overcome this metabolic block by supplementing with a new form of folate. This form is easily absorbed, allowing you to restore optimal folate levels.
Tests to screen for possible drivers of Methylation imbalance
- MTHFR genes – blood test
- Folate – important to check your level before commencing treatment
- Thyroid – blood test for TSH, T3, T4
- Insulin Resistance – check waist measurement, a blood test for fasting insulin and fasting blood sugar levels.
- Inflammation – blood tests for hsCRP, ESR, Homocysteine
- Digestion – CDSA for gut bugs and/or blood test for food reactivity
- Stress – saliva cortisol test done four times during the day to identify your cortisol fluctuations
