MTHFR is a gene mutation and it is short forthe mehylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene. It is located on chromosome 1 and is responsible for making the MTHFR enzyme. This enzyme is essential for processing amino acids. At this point it is important to understand why amino acids in general are so vital. Amino acids are considered the building blocks that make-up protein. Amino acids make up 75% of the human body and are essential to nearly every bodily function. Every chemical reaction that takes place in your body depends on amino acids and the proteins that they build. If you have this gene mutation your body is not functioning on all four wheels so to speak. In the body, adequate protein intake is vital for virtually everything from healthy muscles, ligaments, tendons, organs, glands, nails, hair, nervous system function and the making of most body fluids. Besides water, protein comprises the largest portion of our body weight. The MTHFR gene converts folate (vitamin B9) into a usable form, which is needed in the reaction to convert the amino acid homocysteine to methionine. Methionine helps with metabolism and ultimately breaks down fat. It can also help with the removal of heavy metals from the body, which ensures that the liver, kidneys, and bladder remain healthy. This amino acid preserves artery function and maintains healthy nails, hair, and skin. Additionally, it is essential for muscle growth and energy. MTHFR also converts folate into a useable form. The useable form is then needed to make dopamine, norepeniphrine, serotonin and glutathione (which is your body’s main detoxifier). Excessive homocysteine can lead to cardiovascular disease and thick blood and is often associated with infertility. Ninety eight percent of autistic children have a MTHFR mutation. MTHFR is not the sole issue with Autism, but it certainly could be a significant contributing factor when one starts to think about the role of toxicity, such as mercury exposure, and the body’s diminished ability to clear toxins with reduced glutathione. This is why if you have an autoimmune disease, knowing your genetics is important. If you have this gene you probably have way too much homocysteine in your body. The Standard American Diet (SAD) diet adds more folate in a form that one with this MTHFR cannot break down, (folic acid) which will increase homocysteine and suddenly the scales are tipped against you. You need to balance the scales to maintain a healthy immune system and fight disease. Understanding MTHFR is an important piece to your wellness puzzle. The latest research shows that we can change our genetic expression through diet and a healthy gut. Good news with those with MTHFR. If however you are not functioning at a healthy level you may need to supplement. This is easy to do. Some doctors feel that no matter what you need to supplement for life. Do you have any questions about MTHFR?
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CategoriesBy: Candace RayCandace Ray, mom, Lyme advocate, healthy living motivator who just wants to have fun and enjoy what life has to offer! Archives
February 2020
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