What does it mean to test positive for MTHFR?
The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene contains the DNA code to produce the MTHFR enzyme. This test detects two of the most common mutations. When there are mutations or variations in the MTHFR gene, it can lead to serious genetic disorders such as homocystinuria, anencephaly, spina bifida, and others.
How is MTHFR diagnosed?
A doctor can determine whether or not a person has an MTHFR variant by reviewing their medical history, considering their current symptoms, and performing a physical examination. The doctor may recommend running a blood test to check the person’s homocysteine levels.
What foods to avoid if you have a MTHFR mutation?
Avoid all products with added or fortified folic acid which is the synthetic form of vitamin B9 found in fortified supplements (pregnancy supplements) breads, cereals and commercially produced flours. Avoid processed foods that have synthetic folic acid added to them.
What diseases are associated with MTHFR?
Conditions that have been proposed to be associated with MTHFR include:
- cardiovascular and thromboembolic diseases (specifically blood clots, stroke, embolism, and heart attacks)
- depression.
- anxiety.
- bipolar disorder.
- schizophrenia.
- colon cancer.
- acute leukemia.
- chronic pain and fatigue.
What are the symptoms of MTHFR?
Symptoms of an MTHFR gene mutation
- ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
- Autism.
- Autoimmune disease and thyroid issues.
- Cardiovascular disease.
- Chronic fatigue.
- Colon Cancer.
- Digestive issues , including IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
- Hormonal issues, including PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Is MTHFR really a problem?
People with homozygous (present in two copies) mutations or variations of MTHFR may end up with homocystinuria, a disorder that affects the eyes, joints and other parts of the body. High homocysteine levels also have been connected to heart disease and strokes. There is a genetic test for MTHFR variations.
What are the signs and symptoms of MTHFR?
Is MTHFR serious?
What is the MTHFR gene, and how does it work? As I mentioned, its normal function is to produce an enzyme called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase in the body. And there are a few common variants, but they aren’t dangerous.
Does MTHFR affect vitamin D?
Summary answer: Women with MTHFR 677TT (homozygous mutation, TT) genotype have significantly lower vitamin D levels, higher homocysteine and natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicities than those of women with MTHFR 677CC (wild type, CC) and 677CT (heterozygous mutation, CT) genotypes.
What does MTHFR do to your body?
The MTHFR gene provides instructions for your body to make the MTHFR protein, which helps your body process folate. Your body needs folate to make DNA and modify proteins.
Can MTHFR cause anxiety?
MTHFR mutations, for which at least 24 known genetic polymorphisms have been identified, are associated with metabolic dysfunction. They play a suspected role in several physiologic symptoms—including anxiety.
What are MTHFR symptoms?
What vitamins help with MTHFR?
Most people who have MTHFR benefit from taking methylcobalamin (methylated B12). In addition, consume more natural forms of B12, folate, and vitamin B6 (also important in the process of detoxification), such as beans, lentils, asparagus, broccoli, and avocado.
Is MTHFR autoimmune?
But can MTHFR gene mutations lead to the cause of an autoimmune disease? The short answer is yes. However, there are also other genes that are better known to be problematic for autoimmune disease.
What vitamins should I take for MTHFR?
Vitamins You Need with MTHFR
- Methylfolate.
- Active Vitamin B12.
- Magnesium.
- NAC(N-acetylcysteine)
- Glutathione.
- Vitamin D.
Why does MTHFR cause anxiety?
The Symptoms of MTHFR Induced Anxiety
MTHFR commonly causes pyrroluria, a disorder that hinders the body’s ability to transform folate (vitamin B9) into methylfolate. Something that without sufficient levels in the brain, can cause depression, anxiety, and other health complications.