MTHFR and Methylation

Methylation is an incredibly important biochemical reaction in the body. One of the most commonly researched and tested enzymes in this pathway is called MTHFR (Methyltetrahydrafolate Reductase). Genetic testing is used to identify if mutations exist on these pathways.

The functions of Methylation in the body are to:

• • • Create and Breakdown Neurotransmitters (Like Serotonin, Dopamine, Histamine, and Epinephrine)
    • Create new DNA (Genetic Material)
    • Support the production Creatine and the Lipid Cell Wall
    • Support 200+ other mechanisms in the body

How does MTHFR and methylation affect anxiety or OCD?

Anxiety or OCD and mental health conditions in general are directly caused or impacted by neurotransmitters, the messenger chemicals our brain and neurological system uses. Since methylation is responsible for fueling much of our neurotransmitter creation and breakdown, there is a direct relationship with mental health. Methylation also plays vital roles in our immune system, inflammatory mechanisms, detoxification, and cell health, all of which can play a role in anxiety or OCD.

Conditions also associated with methylation and MTHFR:

• • • Anxiety and Mental Health
    • Fatigue and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
    • Histamine Intolerance
    • Mast Cell Disorders and Mastocytosis
    • Sleep Problems or Insomnia
    • Thyroid Conditions and Hormone Health
    • Lyme Disease Support
    • Cancer Prevention and Supportive Care
    • Environmental Exposures (Solvents, Chemical Exposures, Mold, etc)
    • Neurological Conditions
    • Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction and POTS
    • Behavioral and Learning Challenges
    • Infertility
    • Conditions with an unknown cause.

Read more about Genetic testing and additional SNPs here as Methylation and MTHFR are only one piece of the puzzle.

Read a MTHFR and anxiety case study.

Dr. Ben Lynch Training Completed SeekingHealth.org and listed as a provider on MTHFRSupport.com