Unraveling the Mystery of MTHFR and Overmethylation: Beyond the Ordinary

Ever heard of MTHFR? No, it's not some secret code or an alien invasion. It's a gene that plays a crucial role in our body's methylation process. Methylation might sound like a complex chemical reaction happening in a distant lab, but it's actually a vital biochemical process that occurs within our cells, determining how our genes are expressed and our body functions.

Normally, the MTHFR gene produces an enzyme called MTHFR that helps convert one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms into a methyl group. Methyl groups are like tiny molecular tags that play a significant role in various essential cellular functions, including DNA methylation, protein synthesis, and neurotransmitter production. They even influence our stress response and detoxification pathways. In other words, they hold the key to our overall health and well-being.

But here's the catch: Genetic variations in the MTHFR gene can cause the MTHFR enzyme to malfunction, leading to a cascade of effects. One common outcome is undermethylation, where there's a deficiency of methyl groups in the body, resulting in a range of health issues.

However, that's not the whole story. Overmethylation, also known as increased hypermethylation, is a lesser-known but equally significant concern. It can occur due to various factors, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the MTHFR gene. When overmethylation happens, it can cause a host of troubling symptoms, such as poor concentration, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorders, and sensitivities to environmental toxins. It's like a storm brewing within our cells, wreaking havoc on our physical and mental health.

So, how does overmethylation occur? Well, it's a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that dietary factors, such as a high intake of alcohol and low intake of folate, can increase the risk of overmethylation. Exposure to environmental toxins, like Bisphenol A (BPA) found in plastics, and long-term estrogen exposure have also been linked to hypermethylation. Excess use of certain B vitamins may also lead to temporary overmethylation.

Surprisingly, even our maternal diet during pregnancy can impact our methylation status. Studies in mice have shown that a diet rich in methyl donors like folic acid, vitamin B(12), choline, and betaine can alter the phenotype of the offspring. It makes us wonder about the long-lasting effects of our dietary choices on the next generation.

Interestingly, specific gene variants, such as MTHFR 677TT, have been associated with an increased risk of overmethylation. People with this gene variant may have elevated copper-to-zinc ratio and irregularities in thyroid and adrenal hormone production, as well as lower histamine levels. It's like a delicate balancing act within our body, with each component influencing the other.

Low histamine levels, also known as histapenia, have been implicated in overmethylation. Histamine, which is involved in various physiological processes, is regulated by enzymes like histamine-N methyltransferase and diamine oxidase. Imbalances in these enzymes can disrupt histamine metabolism and contribute to overmethylation.

Assessing methylation status in the body can be challenging, but measuring whole blood histamine levels can provide valuable insights. Low blood histamine levels may indicate overmethylation, while high levels may suggest undermethylation. It's like deciphering clues to unravel the mystery of our body's methylation puzzle.

Managing overmethylation can be complex and requires a holistic approach. It may involve dietary and lifestyle changes, supplementation with appropriate methyl donors, and addressing other underlying factors that contribute to overmethylation. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional who understands the intricacies of methylation and its impact is crucial.

If you are wondering about Overmethylation while taking an MTHFR Renew or Endure product, your best course of action is to lower your dose or even stop for 2-3 weeks while your body regulates. Then start on low does MTHFR Endure 1 capsule every 1-2 days and work up from there weekly. If you have any questions, reach to our staff at 801-796-7667 or info@danpursermd.com.

Symptoms of Overmethylation

• Anxiety

• Adrenal fatigue

• Depression

• Inability to concentrate

• Hyperactivity

• Panic attacks

• Poor motivation

• Easily frustrated

• Sleep disorders, insomnia

• Paranoia

• Sensitivities to foods/chemicals

• High pain threshold

• High energy levels

• Low histamine

Anxiety and restlessness can be caused by higher levels of DNA methylation, inflammatory cytokines (such as interleukin-6), and an increased risk for inflammatory diseases.

Depression, according to a systematic review, is often associated with hypermethylation of BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and SLC6A4 (the serotonin transporter gene), which are commonly found in studies related to MDD or depression in general.

The symptoms of overmethylation are similar to those of undermethylation, underscoring the significance of the methylation cycle in maintaining optimal health.

For individuals dealing with overmethylation issues, MTHFR RENEW or MTHFR ENDURE from physiciandesigned.com may be beneficial. It has been suggested that those with the homozygous MTHFR 677TT variant may have an elevated copper:zinc ratio, flavin sufficiency, and a higher risk of over-methylation. However, caution should be exercised with copper supplements or high intake of copper-rich foods (such as liver, oysters, and spirulina) as they may exacerbate symptoms. Not to mention the connection we see between MTHFR and Fibromyalgia symptoms. On the other hand, zinc supplementation can help reduce excess free copper and moderate its effects on neurotoxicity, oxidative stress, and thyroid damage, while also improving antioxidant capacity and impairing copper bioavailability.

Natural anti-inflammatory agents like Omega-3 fish oil, turmeric, ginger, and green tea extract may be used to address higher levels of inflammatory cytokines in the body.

Undermethylation, which occurs when there is insufficient methyl molecules, is characterized by high levels of oxidative stress, low levels of vitamin B6, D, and folate, and reduced levels of unbound copper. There is also an increased tendency for higher histamine levels. Individuals who undermethylate are at a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and low energy due to lower levels of neurotransmitters.

Undermethylation has been associated with MTHFR 677CT gene variants, which result in inadequate folate and other B vitamin cofactors required for the methylation cycle. This is exactly why we created our MTHFR RENEW and ENDURE support products.

Symptoms of undermethylation may include fatigue, digestive disorders, depression, insomnia, headaches, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, poor memory, allergies, and lower levels of methylation have also been linked to increased ADHD symptoms in childhood due to heightened neurotransmitter release during brain methylation before birth. Anyone with MTHFR SNPs understands these symptoms all too well.

So, get ahead of your undermethylation, and balance out overmethylation by taking MTHFR ENDURE - the MTHFR support supplement designed to protect you in the long run.