What Is MTHFR?

MTHFR is a genetic mutation that impairs the methylation cycle and is passed down to a child from one or both parents. Almost 50 percent of those who are tested for MTHFR have the gene, but many more suffer silently because the initial side effects are not always alarming. Sometimes the mutation goes undiagnosed because it can manifest itself as seemingly harmless ailments, such as fatigue, brain fog, sleeping problems, or digestive issues.

There are many different forms of MTHFR, depending on what combination of 677 and 1298 are present in a person’s DNA. Those who are born with the gene have difficulty processing and eliminating toxins and other types of waste. This causes impurities to build up within the body, which can lead to a range of health conditions.

Conditions Associated With MTHFR

MTHFR mutation is associated with the following:

• Miscarriages
• Neural tube defects (NTD)
• Blood clots
• Dementia
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disease
• ADD/ADHD
• Autism
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Cardiovascular disease

Treatment Options

Because a genetic defect causes MTHFR, it cannot be cured. However, there are lifestyle choices one can make to reduce the risk of developing conditions related to the disease. Some tips that can help those who have MTHFR include:

• Staying hydrated: Individuals who struggle with MTHFR mutation have a harder time processing toxins, so drinking plenty of water helps flush out impurities.
• Maintaining digestive health: Ensuring that the stomach is in optimal health will help the body absorb more nutrients from foods.
• Avoiding toxins: Both environmental and dietary toxins can affect someone with MTHFR, so it is crucial to abstain from using harmful products like inorganic cleaning supplies and cosmetics.
• Consuming foods rich in folate: Folate is essential for those with MTHFR. Adding leafy greens to one’s daily diet, supplementing with a combination of folate and vitamin B12, and avoiding folic acid (a synthetic form of folate) are all beneficial for treating MTHFR.
• Be dedicated to your treatment: Treating MTHFR is a lifetime commitment. It may seem like a daunting task to fend off the effects of MTHFR, especially when there are so many chemicals and toxins in our daily lives. However, it is worth taking every precaution to be able to live a long, fulfilling life.

For more information about how to treat or diagnose MTHFR, please schedule your consultation at Vitality Medical and Wellness by calling our office at (702) 731-1200.