What Is the MTHFR Gene?
The MTHFR gene (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) provides instructions for making an enzyme that plays a vital role in processing vitamin B-9, also known as folic acid. This is a very important biochemical pathway that is essential for DNA methylation, neurotransmitter production, and detoxification. It has long term impacts on vascular health, is linked with miscarriages and is important for immune health.
This mutation is very common and is easily supported naturally. There are two common variants (mutations) of this gene: C677T and A1298C. People can inherit one or two copies of each variant. Having one copy is called heterozygous, and having two is homozygous.
A reduced-function MTHFR gene may lead to:
- Elevated risk for heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline and miscarriages.
- Poor detoxification: can slow down the body’s ability to clear toxins – both environmental, cellular waste products, medications and alcohol.
- Hormonal imbalances: Methylation is crucial for estrogen metabolism and neurotransmitter production.
- Folate deficiency: Even with dietary intake, folic acid may not be properly converted into its active form if the MTHFR SNP is present.
- Increased risk of mental health concerns: Such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD
- Increased Vascular problems: Early heart attacks, strokes, varicose veins, and blood clots.
While genetic testing is the only way to confirm, you might suspect MTHFR issues if you experience:
- Chronic fatigue or brain fog
- Depression or anxiety, resistant to treatment
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Family history of heart disease, strokes, aneurysms, varicose veins
- Intolerance to alcohol and bad hangovers
Whether or not you’ve been tested, you can take proactive steps to optimize your methylation pathway and overall health.
- Methylated Folate – 5-MTHF is typically used to bypass the biochemical inefficiency from the MTHFR weakness.
- Support Liver Detox:
- Eat cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage).
- Herbal supports like milk thistle or dandelion root (check with your provider).
- Supplements like Glycine, Glutathione, N-Acetyl L-Cysteine, microminerals (e.g. selenium)
- Eat a Folate-Rich Diet
- Include leafy greens (spinach, romaine, arugula), lentils, avocados, and asparagus.
- Avoid enriched foods with synthetic folic acid that doesn’t process efficiently.
4. Test and Monitor
- If you suspect MTHFR mutations are affecting your health, consider a genetic test through your doctor or a reputable lab.
Final Thoughts
An MTHFR mutation isn’t a diagnosis or destiny. It’s a clue to your health story. At Crossing Back to Health, our functional medicine team specializes in evaluating and supporting these genetic and biochemical imbalances. You can reduce the impact of the MTHFR gene and effectively support natural detoxification, mood, energy, hormonal and vascular health.
We are currently accepting new patients for comprehensive evaluations.
Dr. Amy Davis M.D.
Crossing Back to Health
485 Wildwood Parkway Suite 2
Ballwin, MO 63011
636 778-9158
www.crossingbacktohealth.com