29: Methylation Problems & Gene Mutations

Dr. Ben Lynch is a naturopathic doctor and world expert on MTHFR genes and methylation problems. In this episode, we talk about the many ways that methylation problems  can affect health, especially for women.

What is MTHFR?

The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene produces the MTHFR enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down (methylating) folate in the body.

Up to 50% of Americans have an MTHFR gene defect of some type that impairs their ability to mthylate properly. These defects can cause problems with everything from nutrient absorption to gene expression.

The methylation of folate is also important for healthy homocysteine levels and hormone levels because one of the byproducts of methylation us used to break the amino acid homocysteine down to another essential amino acid, methionine. The body uses methionine to make proteins, utilize antioxidants, and to assist your liver in processing fats.

Methionine into SAM-e (s-adenosylmethionine) in the liver. SAM-e is important for reducing inflammation, neurotransmitter production, and cell repair.

In short, a methylation problem can lead to a build up of heavy metals and synthetic vitamins in the body. It can also prevent proper neurotransmitter production and lead to problems with mental health, cellular health, autoimmune disease, infertility, miscarriages and even cancer.

Resources Mentioned

• Dr. Ben Lynch’s website
• MTHFR.net
• SeekingHealth.com (my source for many supplements)
• Article: MTHFRs and Toxicity
• Article: Benefits of Sauna and how to sauna safely with MTHFR
• Article: Optimizing Your Future Child-Prenatal Supplements
• Article: Nitrous Oxide and MTHFR
• Book: Drug Muggers by Suzy Cohen
• Educational Course: Kids Course

Supplements Dr. Ben Suggests:

• Optimal Prenatal Protein Powder
• Active B12 with L-5-MTHF Lozenge
• Histamine Block – for food derived histamine issues
• Optimal Liposomal Vitamin C