19/11/2021
Methylation is a key biochemical process that is essential for the proper function of almost all of your body’s systems.
It occurs billions of times every second; it helps repair your DNA on a daily basis; it controls homocysteine (an unhealthy compound that can damage blood vessels); it helps recycle molecules needed for detoxification; and it helps maintain mood and keep inflammation in check.
An enzyme, called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), carries out these methylation processes. When something goes wrong with that enzyme, which can happen in many different ways, health issues ensue.
To keep methylation running smoothly you need optimal levels of B vitamins. Folate, B2, B6, B12, and betaine are all needed in adequate amounts for methylation to work as it should.
Without them, methylation breaks down and the results can be catastrophic. In these cases, we see more birth defects like congenital heart disease and spina bifida, more cases of Down’s syndrome, and more miscarriage.
To avoid all of these problems, the key is to maximize methylation. That means testing to find out how well your methylation is working, avoiding the things that cause your methylation to break down, and including the things that support proper methylation.
First, let’s start with the things that negatively impact your body’s natural ability to methylate: genetics, smoking, nutrient malabsorption, medications, toxicity, and a poor diet—especially if it’s low in leafy greens, fruits, and high-quality meats and eggs because their naturally occurring B vitamins are essential for proper methylation.
The good news is there are lots of simple, natural interventions you can take to support your methylation process. One of the best ways is by taking an already methylated B complex supplement. You can work with an open-minded physician or Functional Medicine doctor if this is something you want to explore.