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Methylation Cycle

The methylation cycle is a foundational biological pathway that affects many aspects of your well-being.

In a nutshell, methylation is the donation of a methyl group that is needed for a variety of reactions such as DNA synthesis, neurotransmitter synthesis, and detoxification of some toxins. A methyl group is a carbon plus three hydrogens, and this can be easily used in biological reactions. Many of the molecules that make up your body have a backbone of carbons and hydrogens, so adding another carbon plus three hydrogens (methyl group) can modify the compound. 

Where to start:

Members: Check out the Methylation Cycle Topic Summary Report for a quick overview of all your genetic variants included in the articles below.

Latest articles about the methylation cycle:

MTHFR mutations explained, frequency of C677T SNP, A1298C SNP, Supplement Interaction, MTHFR variant risks

MTHFR Mutation: What is it? How to check your raw data.

The MTHFR gene is important for how your body utilizes folate (vitamin B9) for creating neurotransmitters, detoxifying toxicants, and maintaining a healthy heart. Check your 23andMe or AncestryDNA data for the MTHFR C677T and A1298C variants.

MTHFD1: Folate and Choline

The MTHFD1 gene encodes an enzyme in the folate cycle. Genetic variants here can indicate a greater need for choline or folate in the diet.

Creatine Synthesis, Foods high in creatine, creatine benefits

Creatine: Boosting Muscles and Increasing Brain Power

Creatine is an amino acid used in muscle tissue and the brain for energy in times of stress. Genes play a role in creatine synthesis. Find out what the research shows about creatine supplements for muscle mass and cognitive function.

COMT supplement interactions, slow COMT, fast COMT, SNP

COMT: How to Optimize Your Supplements for Your COMT Genotype

Some supplements interact with COMT variants to impact the rate at which neurotransmitters are broken down. Check your COMT genotype and discover how this may affect your reaction to different supplements or combinations of supplements.

Genetics and Vitamin B12

There are several genes that can influence your absorption, transport, and need for vitamin B12. Some people need higher amounts of B12, and some people thrive on different forms of B12. Take a look at your genetic data to see if you should up your intake of B12.

Folate Optimization: MTHFR and Fertility

MTHFR variants affect the conversion of folate into the active form. Learn how this can affect you if you are trying to get pregnant.

CBS Gene Variants and Low Sulfur Diet

Some clinicians recommend a low sulfur diet for people with CBS mutations. Find out what the research shows – and why that recommendation is not backed up. (Member’s article)

MTHFR: Going Beyond C677T and A1298C

The MTHFR C677T and A1298C variants get a lot of press, but they do not give the whole picture of the MTHFR gene. Additional variants are impacting the functionality of the enzyme.

MTHFR, depression, anxiety, symptoms and treatment

We are all genetically unique, and a common genetic variant in the MTHFR gene causes some people to be more susceptible to having low folate levels. This article explains the research linking MTHFR variants, folate, and depression — and gives you information on how diet or supplements may help.

Vaccines and the MTHFR mutation

A lot of people use the MTHFR variants as a reason not to vaccinate their kids. Is there any science to back this up? See what the research says.

woman with pregnancy test in hand

Genetic links to infertility for women

Your genes may be playing a role in your infertility — and knowing which genetic variants you carry may help you figure out solutions to try.

MTHFR and Migraines

The MTHFR C677T variant increases the risk of migraines. Learn how to check your genetic data and how to mitigate the risk.

Folate-rich recipes for MTHFR

Getting enough folate in your diet? We’ve collected some simple nutritional tools and recipes to get you on track.

Histamine Intolerance, MTHFR, and the Methylation Cycle

Genetics plays a role in how well your body breaks down histamine. Histamine that is out of balance with the body’s ability to break it down can cause symptoms that are collectively known as histamine intolerance. Discover how to check your genes that are involved with histamine levels.

COMT Graphical Abstract, Slow COMT effects, Slow COMT

COMT Gene: Neurotransmitter Levels, Estrogen Metabolism, and SNPs

Wondering why your neurotransmitters are out of balance? It could be due to your COMT genetic variants. The COMT gene codes for the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase which breaks down (metabolizes) the neurotransmitters dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.

Dads matter: MTHFR variants in fathers affect miscarriage risk

Dads matter – in conception, pregnancy, and throughout life. It is easy to see how prospective moms need to clean up their diets, exercise, and sleep well before getting pregnant, but recent studies show that a dad’s MTHFR variants also affect infertility and miscarriage risk.

MTR and MTRR Genes: Methylation cycle and the need for Vitamin B12

This article explains where the MTR and MTRR genes fit within the methylation cycle. I’ll show you how to check your 23andMe or AncestryDNA raw data for the MTR and MTRR SNPs, and then explain how to optimize your diet for these variants.

Methylation Cycle Topic Summary

Utilize our Methylation Cycle Topic Summary Reports with your 23andMe or AncestryDNA genetic data to see which articles may be most relevant to you. These summaries are attempting to distill the complex information down into just a few words. Please see the linked articles for details and complete references. (Member’s article)

‘MTHFR Coffee’ with Eggs and Kale for Breakfast

Spurred on by a podcast, I share a great breakfast that supports the methylation cycle. Gelatin is an excellent source of glycine, an amino acid that is often short-changed in our modern diet. You can even add it to your morning coffee.