Anxiety from MTHFR Treatment

Summary:

Julia was frustrated after finding out that she had MTHFR but that the B-vitamins she kept trying caused anxiety and insomnia. After doing her own research she had tried several MTHFR protocols she had found online. Some of the combinations made her feel great for a few days but then caused panic attacks and insomnia. She wanted help figuring out her MTHFR.

How the case was evaluated:

• • • The genetic testing she had done previously was not very comprehensive, but showed a slow COMT genetic mutation in addition to her C677T MTHFR.
    • A nutrient panel was performed that showed several nutrients to be sub-optimal (B2, magnesium, and zinc were the most notable).
    • Blood testing showed mildly elevated homocysteine.
    • A more comprehensive methylation panel was offered.

Assessment:

When methylation issues such as MTHFR are combined with the methylation dependent COMT pathway (which breaks down our dopamine and adrenaline) it is not uncommon to see reactions to standard MTHFR treatments. Julia was right to realize that methylation was an important part our biochemistry, but was missing some critical data pieces of her unique biochemistry.

Treatment:

• • • Methylation was more precisely and gently treated with supplements.
    • Nutrient levels were optimized.
    • More comprehensive genetic testing to look at additional pathways is an option.
    • Homocysteine was normalized and is routinely monitored.

Outcome:

Julia had a quick improvement of her homocysteine level and has not had further supplement related anxiety or insomnia. The risks of elevated homocysteine related to her MTHFR have been mitigated and she feels empowered to use the genetic information she has to improve her health.