One of my first blogs was about Methylenetetrahydrofolatereductase (MTHFR). I am not sure I understand why but Canada has not adopted the knowledge on the medical side. What is it? It is an enzyme in the methyl cycle of the body causing different individual outcomes such as heart disease, stroke, hypertension, preeclampsia during pregnancy, glaucoma and cleft palate just to name a few. It has also been noted that it is implicated as a link to the progression of autoimmune diseases. My interest of course is the links to autism, schizophrenia and ADHD which is how I became interested in the genetic mutation.
Of course this is controversial information because not enough independent studies exist. There are two possible mutations C677T and A1298C mutations, which you acquire one copy of each. Gene mutations are inherited, which means you acquire them from your parents. At conception, you receive one copy of the MTHFR gene from each parent. If both have mutations, your risk of having a homozygous mutation is higher.
What is a homozygous mutation? Good question, it means that both genes leave you at risk to develop the condition as you inherited the same faulty gene from both parents.
All of us have the “not so great” genes that put us a risk for something, but they have to have the right conditions to express. This could predispose someone but doesn’t mean it will express.
Some of the signs that have been attributed to the MTHFR gene mutations, including fatigue, chronic pain, brain fog, depression and anxiety, estrogen dominance, and headaches are common symptoms. If you feel that this may be you, consult with a Naturopath or medical doctor that is knowledgeable. The main treatment is supplementation with these main vitamins needed to increase methylation: folate or 5MTHF, B6 and B12.
Have any questions, please get in touch.
Ref: medicalnewstoday.com
Ref: www.restorativechiro.com