Many things cause health issues throughout your life. Low metabolism, achy joints, heart issues, digestive problems and much more. Many of these health issues are due to the genes passed on from parents and their parents before them. As time passes gene mutations may happen causing further health issues. One of these is Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, otherwise known as MTHFR. This gene mutation is a variation that impacts the body’s functions when it comes to processing folate and homocysteine.
40 percent of people with a MTHFR mutation most don’t know they have it. *
The two most common variants are MTHFR 677C>T and MTHFR 1298A>C. People with these variants may experience certain health issues throughout their lifetime. Recognizing these problems early can help the person better manage the condition, hopefully leading to a healthier life. Here are 4 common symptoms of MTHFR mutations to look out for if you think you are susceptible to these gene traits.
Mood issues and fatigue
A common symptom of MTHFR issues is fatigue even after getting enough rest. This is due to the mutation interfering with the body’s ability to convert folate into its active form, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), leading to lower energy levels.
Additionally, people with this MTHFR gene are often prone to certain mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Folate plays a crucial role in the production of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals in the brain help control mood. Having a deficiency in these chemicals causes imbalances that, if left untreated, can lead to certain disorders. Boosting Folate in the body has been shown to help with these imbalances and correct the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Understanding how these vitamins and genes work in the body can help you create a path to better health.
Cardiovascular issues
Having high levels of homocysteine in the blood is another mark of having the MTHFR gene mutation. Elevated levels of homocysteine can damage the blood vessels which may lead to cardiovascular disease like heart attacks and strokes. Even when you feel like you are healthy these problems can occur. If you experience heart issues out of nowhere or have family experience with heart health issues, you should speak with a doctor. High blood pressure and any sort of heart palpitations are also signs you may need to speak with a physician because you might be dealing with an MTHFR issue that you have no clue even exists for you or your family.
Digestive problems
MTHFR can also cause problems with gut disruption creating issues with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Individuals with this gene mutation often experience bloating, the inability to fully absorb minerals and vitamins like folate and B12, and can even experience issues like irritable bowel syndrome.
Detoxification
Along with these issues people with MTHFR can experience a buildup of toxins in the body, making them sensitive to certain pollutants like chemicals in the air, and even certain medications. These genetic issues may lead to more recognizable health symptoms like headaches, skin irritation and lethargy after exposure. As with any health issue it is important to speak with your personal care physician to get a full write up on your health and move on to specialists if needed.
Taking methyl folate might be a need your body has if you have found you are dealing with MTHFR. For those experiencing any symptoms like fatigue, mood dysregulation (mood disorder), or cardiovascular problems, contact your physician and consider getting tested. The earlier you can diagnose issues, the better.
Many treatments are available from dietary changes to supplements and lifestyle modifications. Understanding the symptoms of MTHFR and recognizing them early can set you on a path to better health in the long run.
References:
* Traci Stein Ph.D., MPH A Genetic Mutation That Can Affect Mental & Physical Health Psychology 2014. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-integrationist/201409/genetic-mutation-can-affect-mental-physical-health
