MTHFR gene mutation: do you have methylation issues?

Posted by Joanne kennedy on November 24th, 2017

Issues with your MTHFR (methyletetrahydrofolate reductase) gene and methylation issues can cause depression, headaches, heart attacks, stroke, infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, birth deformities, and even mental imbalances.

Methylation is the process of activating molecules in the body through the additional of a methyl group for proper functioning of the metabolic pathways and enzyme activity. Effective methylation is important for the body as it influences biochemical reactions such as gene expression.

The MTHFR gene mutation causes problems with your body’s ability to use folate and can increase your risk of chronic disease. Low folate levels in your body can also cause a build-up of toxic chemicals and heavy metals in the body as your body is unable to effectively methylate molecules and detoxify.

Without the ability for your body to effectively methylate, you could end up with high levels of homocysteine that cannot be converted into methionine in your body. Common symptoms and health issues you may experience as a result include chronic fatigue, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, headaches, phobias, chronic depression, suicidal thoughts, addictions, delusions, social isolation, and bulimia.

On the contrary, your body can also over-methylate resulting in a condition called histepania. Histepania is the over-production of methyl groups in the body resulting in high levels of serotonin and dopamine. High levels of serotonin and dopamine can cause health issues such as dry skin, hyperactivity, anxiety, sleep disorders, restless legs, low motivation, and depression.

While this health issue is a complicated one, it can be treated with the right diagnostics and treatment program. If you are concerned about the MTHFR gene, Sydney Naturopath Joanne Kennedy can assist by helping you determine if you have the MTHFR gene mutation and establish an effective treatment program. MTHFR treatment in Sydney, may include rebalancing homocysteine levels in your body and helping it heal through rebalancing the body’s methylation process.

For further information about how Joanne Kennedy helps her patients and to book an appointment visit her website – www.joannekennedy.com.au.