The methylation cycle is a foundational biological pathway that affects many aspects of your wellbeing. 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.
Problems within the methylation cycle often cause high homocysteine levels, which is a marker that doctors test for heart disease risk. Other issues that researchers have linked to methylation cycle problems include an increased risk of depression, anxiety, miscarriage, stroke, and certain cancers. Clinicians often find that methylation cycle problems cause brain fog, mood issues, and fatigue.
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.
This new study shows that people who carry the MTHFR 677 A/A genotype are at a 42% increased relative risk of high blood pressure throughout adulthood.
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.
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.
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is an essential cofactor for many biological pathways. Learn how to check your genetic raw data to see if you may need more riboflavin.
An essential nutrient, your need for choline from foods is greatly influenced by your genes. Find out whether you should be adding more choline into your diet.
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.
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.
Your genes play a role in your susceptibility to migraines. Find out what is going on when you have a migraine and solutions that fit your genes.
Methylfolate may be a better option than folic acid if you have certain genetic variants in the MTHFR or DHFR genes.
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)
The MTHFR C677T variant increases the risk of migraines. Learn how to check your genetic data and how to mitigate the 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.
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.
It is a good idea to know what the supplements you take do inside your body. Learn about the extra additives in supplements and how to work around ones you don’t want.
The MTHFR C677T variant is one that has been studied extensively and there are negative risks associated with it. However, there are also protective effects from it. Learn more about the positive benefits of this variant.