Everyday new information and correlations are discovered about our genetic code, the interaction of the environment on our genes (epigenetics) and how our genes can affect our health and experience of life. The MTHFR (methyltetrahydrofolate reductase) gene has recently received a lot of attention due to it’s central role in the methylation pathway (see chart to left), and the risk for developing chronic disease.
These various genetic variations (mutations) affect different people differently, depending on how many mutations you possess and combined with your previous lifestyle and medical history. As we get older and have been exposed to more stressors or pollutants, symptoms and discomforts that may not seem related begin to occur.
Common manifestations of these genetic mutations can vary greatly from depression, anxiety and insomnia; to increased risk for heart disease, high blood pressure; gout and arthritis; to infertility and hormone imbalances; to an increased risk for cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, and many others.
Children with MTHFR (and other gene mutations) have an increased prevalence of ADD, ADHD and Autistic Spectrum disorders.
Improving quality of life and reducing the symptoms due to these inefficient processes by supporting these mutations is not as simple as some practitioners believe. Especially in sensitive individuals, great care should be taken to understand each individual’s situation and nutritional status in order to not create a healing crisis and possibly make the person feel worse (even if it’s temporary).
Dr. Slavin has been working with MTHFR mutations for several years and will be attending Dr. Ben Lynch’s comprehensive conference to learn more about recent developments and recommendations for supporting the pathways and physiology appropriately.
If you, or any of your family members experience any of the symptoms or discomforts mentioned above, you do not have to suffer thinking there is no solution for these issues. Contact Functional Wellness to start feeling better today.