What is the MTHFR Gene Mutation?
Let’s start with the basics. The MTHFR gene gives your body instructions to make an enzyme that helps process important amino acids (the building blocks of proteins). This enzyme is particularly involved in processing homocysteine, an amino acid that, when elevated, can lead to all sorts of health issues.
But here’s the kicker—some people have a mutation in their MTHFR gene, which means their body isn’t as good at keeping homocysteine levels in check. In other words, it’s like your body’s “homocysteine detox” process is a little sluggish, and that can cause some pretty nasty health problems!
There are two common types of MTHFR mutations: C677T and A1298C. If you’ve got one of these, your body’s ability to process homocysteine could be reduced. It's estimated that approximately 35-45% of people in the U.S. have one of these mutations, so it’s not exactly rare!
How Do I Know if I Have It?
You won’t just feel a gene mutation, but there are a few ways to find out. The easiest route? Many genetic tests, including several available online, will check for the MTHFR mutation. If you’ve been struggling with things like unexplained chronic fatigue, debillitating brain fog, mood issues, recurrent miscarriages—or if heart disease runs in your family—testing is probably a good idea. Elevated homocysteine levels can be a clue that something’s up with your MTHFR gene, so specific blood tests for homocysteine could point you in the right direction as well. In fact, since elevated homocysteine levels can be caused by dietary choices and folic acid (non-methylated form) and not just the gene mutation, knowing your homocysteine levels from a blood test is actually the more important bio-marker to know.
How Can It Negatively Impact My Health?
The MTHFR gene mutation can have some pretty nasty side effects, thanks to those elevated homocysteine levels I mentioned. Here’s how it could negatively impact your health:
Heart Issues: Elevated homocysteine is linked to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. That’s because too much homocysteine can damage your blood vessels, which is not what you want for heart health.
Mental Health Problems: Some studies link high homocysteine levels with cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s, and even depression. It can also mess with your neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain), contributing to mood problems.
Brain Fog / Chronic Fatigue: One of the less talked about but super frustrating impacts of MTHFR mutations is brain fog and chronic fatigue. People with high homocysteine often feel mentally cloudy, like they just can’t think clearly. This is partly due to the role homocysteine plays in reducing blood flow to the brain, which can leave you feeling sluggish and mentally drained. Chronic fatigue can also be a symptom, as your body struggles to detox properly and run energy-efficiently due to impaired methylation.
ADHD: Interestingly, there’s emerging evidence that MTHFR mutations could be linked to ADHD symptoms. Elevated homocysteine might affect the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to difficulties with focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. While more research is needed, addressing methylation issues could play a role in supporting better brain function and attention in people with ADHD.
Pregnancy Complications: For women, high homocysteine levels could lead to pregnancy issues like preeclampsia or miscarriage. Not fun.
Bone Health: Homocysteine can weaken your bones, increasing your risk for fractures or osteoporosis.
Bottom line: If you’ve got this mutation, it could be the silent culprit reaking havoc in your body in a multitude of ways! It just might be worth looking into.
NOW FOR THE GOOD NEWS: You CAN do something about it! Enter TMG (Trimethylglycine)
It might just become your new best friend!
TMG, also known as Betaine Anhydrous, is a compound that can help your body lower homocysteine levels. It acts as a methyl donor—essentially, it gives your body the tools it needs to convert homocysteine into a more friendly amino acid called methionine. This process is a life-saver (literally) for keeping your homocysteine levels in check. Why TMG is SO AWESOME: Heart Health
TMG supplementation has been shown to effectively reduce homocysteine levels, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. By providing methyl groups for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, TMG helps maintain optimal homocysteine levels and supports cardiovascular health.
Liver Function
TMG plays a critical role in liver function and detoxification. It acts as an osmolyte, helping to maintain cellular hydration and protecting liver cells from damage. TMG also supports the synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a compound involved in various methylation reactions and liver detoxification processes.
Brain Health
By reducing homocysteine levels, TMG may have a positive impact on mental health. In addition to depression, ADHD, brain fog and chronic fatigue syndrome, elevated homocysteine has been strongly linked to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Dimentia, Parkinsons and Alzheimers. TMG supplementation can help mitigate these risks by promoting healthy homocysteine metabolism.
MTHFR Gene Mutation Management
Individuals with MTHFR gene mutations often struggle to maintain optimal homocysteine levels due to impaired enzyme function. TMG supplementation provides an alternative pathway for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, bypassing the need for MTHFR enzyme activity. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with MTHFR mutations, helping to manage homocysteine levels and reduce associated health risks.
TMG Dosing
Effective dosage range from 500mg to as much as 6000mg a day, but it’s always a good idea to start small and see how your body reacts. A good rule of thumb is to start with 1000mg / day in divided doses of 500mg each. I am personally now up to 5000mg / day as this has recently been shown in a very high quality study to dramatically improve muscle protein synthesis and increase fat oxidation at the same time. So far I have not experienced any unwanted side effects! I combine this with 20mg of Methylene Blue 2x day now and I can honestly say, it has been a true game changer for me! I've been thrilled with the results so far!
Side Effects and Considerations
While TMG is generally considered safe for most people, some potential side effects and considerations include:
Gastrointestinal Distress: Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps, when taking TMG supplements.
Allergic Reactions: Although extremely rare, allergic reactions to TMG supplements can occur. Symptoms may include itching, rash, or swelling.
Interactions with Medications: TMG may interact with certain medications, such as methotrexate or antiepileptic drugs. Individuals taking these medications should consult with a healthcare professional before starting TMG supplementation.
CONCLUSION:
TMG supplementation offers a promising approach to managing elevated homocysteine levels, particularly for individuals with MTHFR gene mutations. By acting as a methyl donor, TMG supports the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and other health complications associated with high homocysteine levels. Scientific evidence supports the benefits of TMG in promoting cardiovascular health, liver function, improved cognition as well as mental well-being. However, as with any supplement, it is essential to consider potential side effects and contraindications before starting TMG supplementation.
**STAY TUNED FOR PART 2
In my next blog I will discuss the DANGEROUS connection between folic acid sprayed on our grain supply in the US and chronically elevated homocysteine levels as well as the BENEFICIAL anabolic (muscle building) effects of TMG converting homocystine into Methionine.
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