It is estimated that nearly half of our world population has what is known as the MTHFR gene mutation. Researchers and physicians alike are beginning to recognize the gene’s complexity and how that complexity is capable of impacting every facet of our health—as well as how we can use methylated vitamins to improve our health.

Listen to our methylation expert, Kendal Stewart, MD, on why methylation issues are so common and what you can do.

What are MTHFR mutations?

An MTHFR mutation refers to an anomalous variant of the gene methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (shortened to MTHFR), which is responsible for production of a crucial enzyme of the same name. This enzyme acts as a catalyst to a bodily process known as methylation, the addition of a methyl group to a source substance, such as a toxin or unrefined nutrient, in order to produce a new chemical. Methylation, then, is a process which is imperative to proper function all throughout our bodies. It is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, generation of energy, regulation of hormones, transformation of nutrients, and detoxification. When a mutation in the MTHFR gene manifests itself, it results in less efficient methylation, which is suspected to be a potential root for an extensive list of health issues, both physical and mental.

How Can We Stimulate Methylation?

Specifically, MTHFR activates the folic acid we intake through our diet, converting it into a form usable by our cells (5-MTHF). That activated substance, methylfolate, then goes on to stimulate the process of methylation. Those affected by the MTHFR mutation are unable to process folic acid in a healthy manner, and as such, they are encouraged to incorporate supplements of active folate into their dietary habits. Stimulating methylation can alleviate a great number of stubborn, otherwise unexplained symptoms, such as lack of energy, mood issues, sleep pattern instability, among many other near-immune issues. Adding methylfolate supplements to a nutritional regimen may help. Call 866-500-5388 or view our podcasts section for more educational information from our experts and to learn more about our genetic mutation supplements.

Methylation Overview For Patients by Kendal Stewart, MD from Neurobiologix on Vimeo.