Understanding how your body processes the foods and nutrients that you intake can make a difference in your wellness. Advanced genetic testing can reveal certain mutations that impact your ability to break down certain nutrients, putting you at risk for nutritional deficiencies and related health problems. One of the many wellness tests we can order at Nova Clinic is genetic testing for MTHFR, a mutated gene disorder that can impact your health.

MTHFR stands for “methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase,” which is an enzyme that is needed to break down vitamin B9, also known as folic acid or folate. The importance of folic acid in the body is due to its part in the breakdown of certain proteins and amino acids. When a MTHFR gene mutation exists, the MTHFR enzyme does not properly process folic acid. It can also inhibit changing a blood component called homocysteine into the amino acid methionine. Higher levels of homocysteine caused by the MTHFR enzyme gene mutation can have serious impacts on health.

Health Concerns Related to MTHFR Gene Mutations

Those with MTHFR gene mutations may have higher levels of homocysteine and are prone to certain health risks. There are an estimated 40 different MTHFR gene mutations that can impact homocysteine levels. Higher levels of homocysteine, or hyperhomocysteinemia, is related to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, renal disease, strokes, blood clots and low thyroid hormone.

Not all people with a MTHFR gene mutation will experience high homocysteine levels. Others may still have issues processing folic acid and be at higher risk for other complications and disorders. MTHFR gene mutations have been linked to bipolar disorders, OCD, depression, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, peripheral neuropathy and many other health conditions.

Undergoing gene testing for MTHFR mutations may uncover issues in your biochemistry that can be addressed. Increasing B vitamins and foods rich in folic acids and other changes can help improve your health if you have this enzyme disorder. Contact our team at Nova Clinic to schedule your MTHFR testing and a wellness assessment. Learn more about your health and options to achieve better overall wellness.