A few months ago, I had the opportunity to try out a relatively new ancestry and health test called Vitagene. I excitedly sent in my cheek swab sample, waited several weeks for the results to come in, and eagerly immersed myself in my 56-page profile when it arrived. It was fascinating to see some of the genes responsible for things like my genetic predisposition for exercise, obesity, reactions to salt, and possible nutritional deficiencies. As I flipped to the section on said deficiencies, something caught my eye – I had a folate deficiency which was something I certainly hadn’t expected. The gene responsible? MTHFR.
Where had I heard that (rather rude sounding) acronym? I knew I had come across it while researching for some blog post or another and decided to look into it further. It was odd to me that I should have a deficiency in such an easily accessible nutrient, considering I eat a healthy diet. What I found turned into quite the epiphany – so many things started to make sense! My poor circulation, degrading vein health, bruising, poor emotional fortitude, fatigue, and so much more started to come into light – I had a MTHFR gene mutation!
So, What is an MTHFR Gene Mutation?
The MTHFR gene mutation was discovered quite recently during the completion of the human genome project. During this research, scientists discovered that those with this type of gene mutation tended to develop certain diseases like ADHD, Alzheimer’s, autoimmune disorders, autism, and atherosclerosis more often than those without the MTHFR mutation.
It is estimated that 30-50% of the population carry a mutation of the MTHFR gene with 14-20% of those individuals having a more severe mutation that drastically impacts their health.
MTHFR itself produces an enzyme called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase which is responsible for adding a methyl group to folic acid (aka Vitamin B9) to make it usable by the body. This enzyme is also important for converting homocysteine levels into methionine – important amino acids needed for proper metabolism, muscle growth, and glutathione production. The MTHFR gene is also responsible for the body’s ability to eliminate toxins from the body through methylation. Methylation isn’t just for detox, it’s also the process required for the creation of every cell in your body including neurotransmitters like serotonin, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine as well as immune cells and hormones like estrogen. Furthermore, the liver is a major processing organ that uses countless enzyme pathways, including methylation, in order to convert nutrients into usable forms. So, as you can see, a significant mutation of the MTHFR gene can cause a lot of havoc and a myriad of symptoms.
The picture below shows quite simply how folic acid and folate differ in terms of absorption.
The Types of MTHFR Mutations
There are two main MTHFR mutations that seem to be responsible for the more severe implications on one’s health; MTHFR C677T and MTHFR A1298C. These “polymorphisms” denote the placement of the mutation on the gene and can be inherited by one or both parents. Depending on the mutation, it can inhibit the body’s ability to convert nutrients into usable vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It can also lead to poor cholesterol levels, brain function, digestion, and endocrine health as well as heart disease and high risk pregnancies. Other symptoms include lingering fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and sleep issues to name but a few.
The different types of mutations for MTHFR:
• Homozygous – the same gene passed on from both parents, either the 677 mutation or the 1298 mutation. (this is the mutation my sister has)
• Heterozygous – one parent passed down the 677 or 1298 mutation while the other parent passes down a normal gene.
• Compound Heterozygous – one parent passes down the 677 mutation while the other passes down the 1298 mutation. (this is the mutation I have)
The two most problematic variations are homozygous and compound heterozygous MTHFR mutations.
The common symptoms for each type of MTHFR mutation include:
AA1298 / CC677 - Normal for the two common variants, or mutations, 677 and 1298
AA1298 / C677T - Single 677 mutation – More susceptible to environmental damage, depression, central nervous system issues, etc. (referred to as Heterozygous)
A1298C / CC677 - Single 1298 mutation – More susceptible to environmental damage, depression, central nervous system issues, etc. (referred to as Heterozygous)
1298CC / CC677 - Double 1298 mutation – Much worse symptoms for the above problems (referred to as Homozygous) – This is the mutation my sister has.
AA1298 / 677TT - Double 677 mutation – Similar to 1298CC plus heart disease, blood clots, etc (referred to as Homozygous)
C677T / A1298C - Single 1298 + Single 677 – Susceptible to all of the above and worse for strokes, heart disease, blood clots, etc. (referred to as Compound Heterozygous) – This is the mutation I have.
If you get tested through a service such as 23andMe, your MTHFR mutation might look like this on their gene report:
MTHFR AA1298 (rs1801131) or TT is normal (no gene mutation)
MTHFR A1298C (rs1801131) or GT is heterozygous (single gene mutation)
MTHFR 1298CC (rs1801131) or GG is homozygous (a double gene mutation) – this is the mutation my sister has
MTHFR CC677 (rs1801133) or GG is normal (no gene mutation)
MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) or AG is heterozygous (single gene mutation)
MTHFR 677TT (rs1801133) or AA is homozygous (a double gene mutation)
MTHFR A1298C (rs1801131) or GT + MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) or AG is referred to as “compound heterozygous” (a single gene mutation of each type) – this is the mutation I have
On extremely rare occasions, some individuals can even have 3 mutations (a double mutation in one gene and a single mutation on the other) or conceivably 4 mutations:
MTHFR 1298CC (rs1801131) or GG + MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) or AG – (a triple mutation)
MTHFR A1298C (rs1801131) or GT + MTHFR 677TT (rs1801133) or AA – (a triple mutation)
MTHFR 1298CC (rs1801131) or GG + MTHFR 677TT (rs1801133) or AA – (a quadruple mutation)
What does a MTHFR gene mutation do to you?
1. It causes the MTHFR gene to produce a defective enzyme. Depending on your specific mutation, this enzyme will function less optimally – performing anywhere from 35-70% less than its capacity. This means that your body is 35-70% less able to break down toxins, remove heavy metals, and puts you at a higher risk for heart disease, cancers, miscarriages, and other issues. If is common for those with a MTHFR mutation to have high amounts of heavy metals in their system which varies from person to person.
2. The defective enzyme (especially C677T) does not break down folate vitamins properly which can cause elevated homocysteine levels. This can increase your risk for coronary heart disease, blood pressure issues, and even dementia.
3. Homocysteine can become difficult for the body to convert into glutathione – the chief antioxidant and detoxifier in the body. This makes you more susceptible to chronic stress and toxic overload.
4. Homocysteine can become more difficult for the body to convert into methionine – an essential amino acid that helps protect the body from arteriosclerosis, fatty liver disease, anemia, free radical damage, and inflammation. Low methionine levels also cause the body to produce less SAM-e – a chemical closely linked with mental health.
5. You can actually find yourself with HIGH levels of folic acid or B12 since your body has problems converting inactive forms of these vitamins into bioavailable forms. This causes these nutrients to build up in your serum which also inhibits the active forms. I personally have very high B12 levels and very low folate levels.
6. It is common to have high copper levels and low zinc levels. Since the ratio of these nutrients is crucial for optimum health since high copper is related to hyperactivity, depression, circulating negative thoughts, headaches, acne, frequent illness, sensitive skin, bruising, hypothyroid, and adrenal stress.
More on MTHFR C677T
This mutation, whether homozygous or heterozygous, causes the body to have trouble converting folic acid into the active form of folate. The implications here are twofold since you cannot tolerate folic acid – the synthetic form of folate which is often found in many processed foods such as fortified food items and baked goods. Furthermore, this mutation may cause elevated homocysteine levels which contribute to oxidative stress and an increased risk of heart disease.
As for MTHFR gene functionality as a whole (including methylation), those with a homozygous mutation for C677T have an estimated 70% loss of function while a heterozygous mutation is a 40% loss of function.
Other recommendations for those with a C677T MTHFR mutation
1. Avoid antacids as they inhibit the absorption of B12 and other nutrients
2. Avoid ingesting anything with folic acid in it including supplements and processed foods
3. Avoid taking drugs which increase homocysteine levels such as Nitrous Oxide under the guidance of your physician
4. Avoid taking folate blocking drugs such as birth control or Methotrexate under the guidance of your physician
5. Eat dark leafy greens and other folate rich foods daily
6. Eliminate dairy from your diet
7. Eliminate gluten from your diet
8. Get your homocysteine levels measured
9. If you are pregnant, seek an OB/GYN, midwife, or doula who is knowledgeable about MTHFR
10. Limit protein intake to 0.7 grams per pound of body weight per day
11. Limit your intake of processed foods
12. Reduce environmental toxins (stop using toxic health and beauty products, filter your water, etc.)
13. Remove mercury amalgams and root canals with a trained biological dentist
14. Stimulate your lymphatic system daily to help the body detox (dry skin brushing, sauna, mini rebounder, detox baths, enemas, etc.) - You can read more about this here.
The Best Supplements for C677T MTHFR Mutation
• Betaine in the form of TMG - helps to reduce elevated homocysteine levels
• Comprehensive multivitamin/multimineral (for women, for men)
• Curcumin - antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
• EPA/DHA - brain and cardiovascular health
• Glutathione - liver support and intracellular antioxidant
• Methylcobalamin or hydroxycobalamin (Hydroxy B12) - bioavailable B12
• Methylfolate - bioavailable folate
• Mixed tocopherals (vitamin E)
• NAC - antioxidant and glutethione precursor
• Nattokinase - supports cardiovascular and circulatory health
• Phosphatidylcholine - supports cellular membranes and cognitive function
• Probiotics - supports digestive health
• Pyridoxal-5-phosphate - Vitamin B6
• Riboflavin - Vitamin B2
• Silymarin (Milk Thistle) - supports liver health and detox
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D3
More on MTHFR A1298C
This mutation, whether homozygous or heterozygous, affects the conversion of methylfolate into BH4 (aka tetrahydrobiopterin). BH4 plays an important role in the creation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine which is why this mutation is closely associated with phycological disorders. It also inhibits the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. Additionally, BH4 is important for cardiovascular health and plays a role in preventing heart disease.
As for overall methylation functionality, those who are heterozygous for A1298C are thought to have mostly normal function while those who are homozygous for A1298C have a 35% loss of functionality.
Those with a compound heterozygous mutation for C677T and A1298C have a 50% loss of functionality.
As for other recommendations for the A1298C mutation, follow the list above and begin changing your lifestyle into a balanced and healthy one. Also make sure to take a bioavailable form of folate to help reverse symptoms. The supplements mentioned above are also great to consider.
Unfortunately, there isn't a ton of info on MTHFR A1298C and how best to treat it just yet. However, I will be updating this post as more information comes to light so be sure to check back periodically.
MTHFR and How to Treat it Naturally
So now that all the complicated stuff is over with, how does one actually make life a bit easier having a MTHFR mutation? You can’t simply change your genes, but you CAN help manage and prevent symptoms and live a normal life.
1. AVOID FOLIC ACID and take FOLATE instead
The fact of the matter is, you MUST at all cost, avoid folic acid - the synthetic form of folate no matter what type of MTHFR mutation you have.
Ingesting excessive amounts of folic acid found in your daily vitamins and other supplements, along with unknowingly ingesting it in a staggering number of processed foods, causes the receptors for folate to be taken up by folic acid. When you have an MTHFR mutation, your body cannot convert or use folic acid, ONLY naturally occurring folate.
Having these receptor sites constantly taken up by folic acid is what inevitably leads to a folate deficiency. You also have to keep in mind that your methylation enzymes are impaired to begin with which makes it even more important to avoid folic acid.
I highly recommend checking your daily vitamins and other supplements to see if “folic acid” is listed as an ingredient. If it is, stop taking it immediately and look for a brand that contains a methylated, more bioavailable form of folate (aka I-methylfolate which may be labeled as 5 L-MTHF or 6(S)-L-MTHF).
Those with a folate deficiency are often low in vitamins B6 and B12 as well so you may want to supplement with those.
You should also check any processed foods purchased at the store including fortified foods and milks (including plant based varieties), breads, and other baked goods. Make it a habit to check the ingredients so you avoid ingesting any added folic acid.
This is the folate supplement I recommend.
2. Eat FOLATE Rich Foods Daily
The best way to reverse your folate deficiency is to eat a diet high in folate. Rebalancing these levels will greatly improve symptoms caused by the MTHFR gene mutation. Since this mutation causes reduced methylation functionality, it may take some time before your levels are topped up again.
Foods that are naturally high in folate include:
• Almonds
• Artichokes
• Asparagus
• Avocado
• Banana
• Beans and other legumes
• Beets
• Broccoli
• Brussel sprouts
• Cantaloupe
• Carrots
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Corn
• Dark leafy greens like collard greens, mustard greens, romaine lettuce, spinach etc.
• Flax seeds
• Grapefruit
• Grapes
• Green onions
• Okra
• Oranges
• Papaya
• Peanuts
• Peas
• Potatoes
• Raspberries
• Red bell peppers
• Squash
• Strawberries
• Sunflower seeds
3. Help the Body Detox
Since an MTHFR gene mutation inhibits proper detoxification, it’s important to assist the body in releasing toxins.
Some of the best ways to accomplish this include:
• Drinking plenty of water
• Dry brushing
• Eating a diet high in nutrient dense whole foods
• Enemas
• Exercising regularly
• Taking detox baths
• Using a mini rebounder
• Using a sauna
• Using only natural health and beauty products
4. Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
Everything from stress, anxiety, quality sleep, digestion, exercise, and your environment affect the expression of our genes. If you focus on eating a healthy diet, reducing stress, healing and supporting your digestive tract, moving around daily, and getting high quality sleep, your MTHFR gene mutation will not be expressed as strongly.
5. Get Tested
If you think you may have an MTHFR gene mutation, you can get tested quite easily by using 23andMe. I recommend them because you can get your raw data file which is what you need in order to see if you have an MTHFR mutation. Once you have it, you can simple upload the data to Genetic Genie for a more thorough look into your methylation genetic profile.
Once you know which genes are mutated, if any, you can then determine what steps you can take to ease and control the expression of the gene.
If you have a mutation, chances are your children may have them as well. Get them tested especially if you suspect tongue ties, cleft lip, etc.
Having a MTHFR gene mutation isn’t the end of the world and it certainly isn’t your destiny. Getting educated and taking action is the best way for you to lead a normal healthy life with MTHFR.
Some Good Sources for Learning More About MTHFR
MTHFR.net
Preparing for Pregnancy with MTHFR Mutations
Wellness Mama podcast with Dr. Lynch on MTHFR
Methylation 101 podcast
Methylation: What is it and why should you care podcast
Do you or anyone you know have an MTHFR gene mutation? What have been your best resources for treating it naturally? Please let me know in the comments below!
Kel says
Hi Thank you so much for this info. I am curious about your recommendation as to not take amything that increases your NO levels. I thought NO is released in body to fight inflammation? Im just trying to understand and figure out my perplexing medical problems. I did a google search but can't find much info.
Anne says
MY husband and I both showed mutations on both MTHFR C677T and MTHFR A1298C. I sure don’t understand it, yet, but find it fascinating. *If we both have the mutations, does that mean our kids will also? *Do you know the connection with this and geographic tongue (if there is one)?
Tash says
I have wondered about the geographic tongue thing myself as I actually have it! Pretty annoying to deal with if you ask me. I've actually gotten rid of it before by following the Whole30 diet but as soon as I start eating foods off of that list it comes back.
As for passing it on, I think it is definitely possible. I need to remind my parents to fulfill their 23andMe DNA test so I can analyze their data through a third party source.
Tamara says
Hi, I have been diagnosed with double A1298C. I have a 3.5 year old which is constantly overtired. He is a terrible sleeper always restless. He always had dark circles under his eyes and is constantly moody. I've had loads of breakdowns due to being tired myself. Thankfully after 27 years since born day I have been diagnosed. I am feeling great now even tho I managed to get autoimmune diseases out of it. But I am thankful I can get out of bed now with no more anxiety and depression. What are the chances of my son having this problem?? I am going to order a test for him. If he is positive, what would you recommend for methyl b tabs?? I am aware of diet and lifestyle. Do I give him my methyl b tabs?? Just smaller dose??
Thanks heaps ?
Tash says
Hi Tamara!
It's hard to say just now. Some people don't react well to methyl B supplements while others do. It's going to be a lot of trial and error until this mutation is more understood as time goes on. I mostly focus on eating lots of fresh citrus and broccoli and feel good when I do. This is what works for ME, though. As for the supplements, you would definitely need to give him a much much smaller dose. I think you may be able to find children's B vitamins but I would still be careful of dosing since he's only 3.5. Definitely get a test done to see! 🙂
Tyler Walker says
Hey Tash! Thanks for the article!! I’m compound heterozygous (exact same as you)... have you had success with supplementation? If so which supplements have you had success with?
Tash says
I have felt pretty good taking Thorne's methyl B supplement. I don't take it every day, maybe a few times per week along with getting in plenty of fresh citrus and broccoli in my diet. Both of those foods contain a lot of naturally occurring folate. It's been helping but I must add that it doesn't always help everyone, even those with the same mutation. I have a few other mutations that may be influencing these results, but I hope the supplement helps you!
christine miocevich says
Hi
I have my 23 and me results and my MTHFR SNPS
rs 1801133 - AG, rs1801131 - GT . also rs1805087 AG and rs2236225 AG
I am not sure what these mean but believe they are similar to yours....can you please tell me.
Thanks
darcy says
thanks for this info! Best overview I have EVER found! I have the same compound heterozygous mutation you do. (once my doc found it in me, he put my Mom on methylized bs too!) I had a healer working with my Lyme/bartonella who first diagnosed me and told me to get tested. But I had never heard about avoiding folic acid (specifically). I have been taking the doterra life long vitality set of vitamins and they use natural folate so its ok for me. (in fact got me up off the sofa!) And I take add'l b's from Seeking Health (homocystex) and a b12 liquid (i too had excess b12 in my system so I had to reduce). Just last week I tried SAM-e and it seems to help - so I was stunned to find your notation re production of that - confirming my intuition! ALso the link re the microbiome to the mutations - I watch mine pretty closely, cook my own foods, eat fermented daily... but I know its still off (a gut knowing - haha) . And I do essential oils too. I had my glutathione recently tested and its ok! (surprised me) I look forward to following this thread with you! thanks!
Tash says
So happy my article has given you insight Darcy, you're not alone (in fact, there are SO many of us with variations of this mutation!). I have been doing well eating plenty of citrus and broccoli, eating fermented foods, and being careful about what B-vitamins I take. The SAM-e is also great and has helped my mood a ton! I feel like getting a good hold on this mutation is going to be a long journey and a different one for each person has new forms of it are discovered. I hope that we can all come here to share our findings as we go!
Grin Revere says
Hi, I have MTHFR A1298C (rs1801131) or GT + MTHFR 677TT (rs1801133) or AA – (a triple mutation). For the past 5 years I've been dealing with ME/CFS and chronic migraines, such that I haven't been able to work. I've dealt with both of those conditions to a lesser degree throughout my life. I got to this site searching for information on the triple mutation--there isn't much out there. I also have another gene abnormality which can cause me to easily over-methylate---so it's tricky.
I have had a great doctor who works with genetics and who put me on all those traditional MTHFR protocols. None made a significant difference. ( not sure with the triple how much reduced my functioning is since the homogenous 677 is reduced 70% and the compound (having the 1298 heterogeneous in addition) reduces 50%.
Anyway the good news is that a whole cutting edge field of research is showing that the micro-biome determines the expression of our genes more than the genetics themselves. This approach has been working for me (thank goodness with the triple mutation---one doctor in this field of genetics told me with that combination if I didn't have a spiritual focus I'd never be able to even get out of bed!!LOL And some days are like that.) . There are powerful presentations by Dr. Zach Bush a former cancer researcher whose team at Biomic Sciences do research and develop products to enhance the diversity in the microbiome along with some lifestyle protocols like time in nature, being in contact with the earth, eating organic and fermented foods. The talks explain how all this works and the product that assists the body to build the biome and heal itself is called RESTORE (again the one by biomic sciences. As we build the biome, we can tolerate more foods since even healthy ones can cause inflammation with a narrow biome (probiotics contribute to this narrowing and are most often made from cow guts which is not that compatible for humans.)
As an example many migraine triggers I can now tolerate. I could never eat fermented foods without getting a migraine and now if I start to get one, if I take RESTORE and EAT something like miso or sourkraut it acutally helps with the migraine. I've been using this approach for about a year but many of my symptoms have reduced or disappeared and my auto-immune thyroid which had been escalating each year we tested, are now in normal range.
The other protocol that has helped in synergy with the REStORE to significantly reduce the frequency, duration and intensity of the migraines is molecular hydrogen. I take it in the form of 1 tablets in water 1-3 times per day. There are several brands out there and many if not most are manufactured by the same company in Canada but have different labels.
Both these products in different ways help with inflammation and with toxicity. They don't address the MTHFR directly (I'm still on those protocols) but deal with the imbalances it the body created by them and again, help to regulate gene expression. It's made a huge difference for me and I continue to improve. I have hope again.
Tash says
WOW!! Thank you for sharing all of this valuable information Grin! I'm sure this will help others on their journey who have the triple gene mutation! I'll have to look into RESTORE 🙂
Hannah Bruzova says
Have you tried NRF2? Great for reducing Oxidative Stress.
Tash says
I haven't! Seems really interesting!
Becky says
Thanks for this post, it’s very helpful! I’m a bit confused about the protein intake piece. I see you recommend limiting protein to .7 grams per pound of body weight. My understanding is that mainstream recommendations are .36 grams per pound, or .8 grams per kilogram. So .7/lb seems like a high intake of protein (though I will say that I’ve had numerous NPs recommend a high protein and low carb intake for me, especially in the morning). Can you please clarify this information? Much appreciated!
Tash says
Hi Becky!
There is a LOT of debate on the proper amount of protein intake that's "correct". I've seen a lot of arguments for both .8 grams per kilogram and .7-1 gram per pound of body weight. I wish I could clarify which one is actually "right" because if I could I think a lot of people would be thrilled 🙂 I know that for myself, after a lot of trial and error, my body prefers lower protein than the .8 grams per pound of body weight. It also prefers that I get that protein from whole food sources and not a protein powder. I say start with the lower protein and see how your body feels. MTHFR is a finicky condition to navigate and everyone who has it will require their own unique way of dealing with it.
Best of luck 🙂
R V says
I am not sure that the 'get folate' recommendation + the matching foods like spinach etc. is solid. Ref 'killer salad' notions by Dr. Pfeiffer and his successor Dr. Walsh. Also, please review https://latitudes.org/dr-william-walsh-autism-ocd-pandas-depression-methylation/ - Dr. Walsh seems to statethat Methylfolate may not be a good idea when you have anxiety etc. as it methylfolate is a serotonin reuptake PROMOTOR.
Tash says
Hi R V!
I have definitely been playing around with the whole folate supplementation thing. It's hard to gauge, even experimenting on myself. Very interesting about it being a serotonin reuptake promoter! I will have to read more about this!
JM Bonadio says
Great information! I have the MTHFR COMPT gene and I am unable to take any supplements to help correct the issue because they cause increased anxiety. I was diagnosed this year with chronic Lyme, spinal stenosis and this MTHFR mutation. My holistic dr wants to start me on New Juice Plus plant Caps with folate. Will this nutritional supplementation help with the MTHFR?
Tash says
Hi JM!
Hmmm... it really depends! Some people do well with supplementation while others feel worse. It's really the sort of thing you have to figure out through trial and error unfortunately 🙁 For me, I focus on getting in as much nutrient dense food as I can and avoid any food that is fortified with folic acid.
John says
Hello,great article U wrote here...!!
One thing I'd like to say is when I went to the dentist they wanted to pull both lower wisdom teeth out.The problem occurred when they administered the 'lidocaine' anesthetic..!! I had an adverse reaction to it....it literally almost put my lights out completely.I told my holistic clinic about it and later they told me with a reaction like that and with their testing they said I was 99% MTHFR gene mutation.SO...beware of any anesthetics...I now wear a medical I.D. alert necklace.
Cheers...!!
Tash says
Wow John! Super good to know! Thank you for your insight 🙂
Anne Martin says
Dear Tash,
my husband has had several skin cancers, parotid removal treated with radiotherapy, lung cancer treated with radiotherapy - all successfully some years ago. This year, he has got another skin cancer on his forehead, treated surgically recently and is not healing yet. All these have been on the right. Now he has got lymph nodes bulging in the left armpit with more on the left side of his face and across his chest.
I have got some Epsom salts and Himalayan salt and essential oils but have to lower him into the bath with an electric lift as he is 77 and quite weak. My query is "Is it wise to brush the skin as I know one shouldn't massage over cancerous areas?" My daughter sent me your website and gives us homeopathy. It is comforting to know that knowledge is being spread by caring people like you. Thank you.
Tash says
Hi Anne!
So sorry to hear about your husband's situation! Brushing the skin will stimulate the lymph to drain, so while that's good in most cases for healthy individuals, I am not sure about how loosening trapped toxins in that manner may affect your husband's cancer. Have you perhaps thought of reaching out to a certified naturopath? I would hate to make your husband's condition worse on accident as I am not a doctor. I hope you understand!
Wishing you and your husband well!!
holly says
Hi Tash, This is a really great article. It's so much easier to understand than alot of what's out there. Thanks for sharing so much of what you've learned. I'm compound heterozygous too but cant seem to tolerate any of the methylfolates, even in small doses. Im going through IVF (which has it's own set of challenges dealing with MTHFR issues) and am supposed to be getting 700-800 folate daily. Im not really sure what I can do. In your reading/research have you found that its possible to get enough folate from natural food sources? Do any of the vitamins that are "derived from food sources" work?
Tash says
Yeah, i think I've been experiencing something similar. If I take folate in supplement form I start to feel a bit out of it. Really tired and just not able to carry out daily tasks. It's really weird and I THINK it might be from the supplement. I like to track my nutrients using Cron-o-meter (you can use it online or as an app though the app isn't free) to see if I'm hitting all of my vitamins and minerals. I find that I can usually hit my daily folate requirements via food sources if I eat a lot of broccoli and citrus, but it can be hard 🙁 I'll have to look into a more food based version of folate. If I find one that works well I'll update here 🙂
Lanie says
Thank you for this information.
Tash says
You're welcome Lanie!
Terri Hall says
Thanks for sharing this! Just had genetic testing done and I have the compound mutation of MTHFR!! All making sense of my symptoms that I have had over the years...need to get busy working on the prevention of the major health issues this can cause! Thanks again.
Tash says
You're welcome Terri! It's insane how helpful it is just to know you have MTHFR. Since finding out myself, I have been able to improve how I feel on a daily basis 10 fold just by avoiding foods with "folic acid".
Patty says
Hi,.^.^ I am a person that has always smiled but have had to deal with so much anxities and depression. My doctor couldn't understand why I wouldn't take medications. I feared everything. I cried all the time and saw negitivity in everything it seemed. I was tested and found your site here 3 years later. I never thought of it after I was tested. My doctor put it off like it was nothing. But now I am dealing with more effects of it all. My jaw bone hurts with shocks and I am always dealing with tummy spasms and heart issues now. When I turned 40 I dealing with heart murr murrs which they told me was a normal thing and also that it is called a echo. I didn't listen because I knew something wasn't right. You should always listen to your body. You are the only one to truly know what it is saying to you. warning signs and feelings . So I started taking magnesium and what a life changer that was. The feeling of my heart skipping beats (which it wasn't but felt like that) went from more than 3,000 a day down to maybe a few during the day. ^.^ I had to change from the Nature made brands to a chelated brand for my reflux issues. But now to know all this information?? Thank you so so much. You told me things the doctor did not. I have subscribed to your site and also emails. Thank you for this information .
Tash says
You are so welcome Patty!
It warms my heart to know that this information was helpful to you 🙂 I wish you all the best and I hope more and more people can become aware of this mutation. So much can happen because of a "silly" deficiency, but from what I've learned about MTHFR, it's way more complicated than that.
Patty Biehler says
yes it is. My Doctor did really have much information about it. Just told me what meds I can take and wont hurt me. He gave me the paperwork of the results as well to use for myself in the future. But sad they aren't doing more with it. Seeing how there is so many people with this.
Tash says
So true!
I'm also seeing folic acid in SO many foods I used to eat. I can't believe it! The only way to truly avoid it is to make almost everything myself... no more buying bread, crackers, certain milks (even plant based), and a ton of other things.
Patty Biehler says
I hope to be able to detect it or spot that in my food here on out. I am growing my veggies and canning most if I am able to. I need to find a list of things that for sure have those ingredients in them so I can avoid them.
Joanie Jarrett says
I am so fatigued that I am basically bed ridden, have terrible sleep issues, dry itchy skin, food intolerances, tons of vitiman deficiencies, along with 3 nodules on my thyroid & a fatty liver. Could it be possible this could be this Gene mutation? Just a possibility?
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Tash says
It certainly could be! The only way to know for sure is to get tested through services like 23andMe. That way you can get all your raw genetic data and have it analysed. For me, I knew something was up since I eat healthy, exercise regulary, get good sleep, and generally lead a stress free lifestyle - but i just wasn't getting better. I never in a million years would have thought it was a genetic mutation. Since taking folate and avoiding everything that has "folic acid" in it, I have been feeling better already!
I'm not a doctor by any means, but I think having our raw genetic data is certainly worth it 🙂