Did you know it’s estimated that over 85% of the population has the MTHFR gene mutation?

Despite its prevalence, this condition remains widely unstudied and often overlooked by doctors.

In this blog, we’ll dive into understanding the MTHFR gene, its impact on health, and share seven essential products to help you thrive while living with MTHFR. From the benefits of magnesium and CBD to the importance of using glass water bottles and dry brushing, we’ve got you covered with practical tips and insights to support your journey.

Understanding MTHFR and Its Impact on Health

The MTHFR gene is responsible for producing an enzyme that plays a critical role in processing amino acids, specifically homocysteine. When there is a mutation in this gene, it can lead to various health issues due to impaired methylation. Methylation is a vital process that affects the body’s natural detoxification, controlling oxidation, immune function (including autoimmunity), neurotransmitter formation, energy production, inflammation regulation, and other critical functions.

Forms of MTHFR Mutations

There are several forms of MTHFR gene mutations, with the two most common being C677T and A1298C. Each MTHFR gene mutation can affect the enzyme’s activity differently:

1. C677T Mutation: Individuals with one copy of this mutation (heterozygous) may have a mildly reduced enzyme activity, while those with two copies (homozygous) can have a significantly reduced activity, leading to higher homocysteine levels.
2. A1298C Mutation: This mutation can also affect enzyme activity, but its impact on homocysteine levels is less direct compared to C677T. However, it can still contribute to health issues, especially when combined with the C677T mutation.

Health Implications of MTHFR Mutations

When the body cannot properly methylate due to an MTHFR gene mutation, several health issues can arise:

1. Detoxification Issues: The body’s ability to detoxify itself is compromised, leading to the buildup of heavy metals and toxins. This can increase the risk of conditions like arteriosclerosis, fatty liver disease, and anemia.
2. Increased Inflammation: Poor methylation can lead to higher levels of inflammation, which is a precursor to many chronic illnesses, including autoimmune diseases and cardiovascular problems.
3. Chemical Sensitivities: Individuals with MTHFR mutations often experience heightened sensitivity to chemicals, making them more susceptible to environmental toxins.
4. Neurological Issues: Proper neurotransmitter formation is affected, potentially leading to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders.
5. Pregnancy Complications: MTHFR mutations can significantly affect pregnancy outcomes. Poor methylation and high homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, preeclampsia, and neural tube defects in the developing fetus.

7 Products To Help You Thrive While Living With MTHFR

# 1 CBD For MTHFR

Before I knew I had MTHFR, I used marijuana to help with my non-existent appetite, combat nausea after meals, and treat anxiety naturally. However, once I stopped using marijuana, these issues persisted without relief. My sister-in-law recommended CBD for cramps I was experiencing, and it was a game-changer. I had no idea why it took me so long to research MTHFR and CBD. HOLY COW, IT HAS BEEN LIFE-CHANGING. CBD has a wide variety of uses, and I think EVERYONE should incorporate it into their daily routine.

The Benefits of CBD for MTHFR

MTHFR diseases can be broken down into three main categories: inflammation-related (inflammation, chronic pain, nerve pain, etc.), oxidative stress-related (heart attack, stroke, migraines, etc.), and neurotransmitter-related (depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc.).

CBD helps manage inflammation and remove toxins from the brain. People with MTHFR accumulate homocysteine instead of converting it into glutathione, the body’s most powerful antioxidant. This inability to produce our biggest fighter of free radicals could lead to oxidative stress in our bodies. CBD has been shown in several studies to exert an antioxidant effect. One study demonstrated how CBD weakened oxidative stress and inflammation while removing heavy metals from the body.

How CBD Supports MTHFR Health

1. Inflammation Management: CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce chronic pain and nerve pain commonly associated with MTHFR mutations. By lowering inflammation, CBD can alleviate many symptoms and improve overall well-being.
2. Oxidative Stress Reduction: Since individuals with MTHFR mutations struggle to produce sufficient glutathione, they are more susceptible to oxidative stress. CBD acts as an antioxidant, helping to mitigate oxidative damage and protect cells from free radicals.
3. Neurotransmitter Balance: CBD influences the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood and stress responses. This can be particularly beneficial for those with neurotransmitter-related issues like depression and anxiety, which are prevalent in individuals with MTHFR mutations.

My favorite CBD is Nuvita CBD. Nuvita provides third party lab results of mold, heavy metals, pesticides, etc so you know you are using a clean product. You want to extensively research the CBD you use as many on the market are full of heavy metals, pesticides, and more that will stress your MTHFR gene even more and cause adverse effects. You can shop Nuvita CBD HERE and get 10% off using code PICKING10. While I will earn an affiliate income if you use my code, this endorsement is 100% my own and I became an affiliate because of the relief it gave me.

Incorporating NUVITA CBD into your daily routine can offer significant benefits for managing MTHFR-related health challenges. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and detoxification properties make it an essential tool for those looking to thrive with MTHFR.

SHOP CBD FOR MTHFR HERE

# 2 Magnesium for MTHFR

Magnesium is a crucial mineral that supports numerous bodily functions, especially for individuals with MTHFR mutations. Since MTHFR can impair the body’s ability to process and utilize magnesium efficiently, supplementing with magnesium becomes essential. It aids in energy production, reduces oxidative stress, regulates neurotransmitters, and improves cardiovascular health. Ensuring adequate magnesium intake can help alleviate many symptoms associated with MTHFR mutations and support overall well-being.

Why Magnesium is Important for MTHFR

Individuals with MTHFR mutations often struggle with methylation, a process critical for detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and managing oxidative stress. Magnesium plays a vital role in these processes:

1. Energy Production: Magnesium is essential for ATP production, the main energy molecule in our bodies, which helps combat chronic fatigue common in MTHFR mutations.
2. Oxidative Stress Reduction: It is involved in producing glutathione, the body’s most powerful antioxidant, helping to reduce oxidative stress.
3. Neurotransmitter Regulation: Magnesium aids in neurotransmitter function, which can help alleviate anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders frequently seen in those with MTHFR.
4. Cardiovascular Health: It supports healthy heart rhythm and blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
5. Detoxification: Magnesium helps detoxify the body by eliminating heavy metals and other toxins, crucial for those with impaired methylation pathways.

Common Symptoms of Low Magnesium

Low magnesium levels can lead to a wide array of symptoms, many of which overlap with those caused by MTHFR mutations. Common symptoms include:

• Insulin resistance and blood sugar imbalances
• Oxidative stress
• Inflammation
• Addiction
• Agitation
• Anemia
• Anxiety
• Cold hands and feet
• Calcification of arteries
• Chronic fatigue
• Confusion
• Convulsive seizures
• Coronary artery spasm
• Depression
• Type 2 diabetes
• Disturbance of heart rhythm
• High blood pressure
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Irregular heartbeat
• Kidney stones
• Metabolic syndrome
• Palpitations
• Poor appetite
• Pronounced startle response
• Osteoporosis
• Radiation therapy
• Stomach acidity
• Tremors
• Vertigo

Isn’t it ‘funny’ that almost all of these are also symptoms of MTHFR? This overlap occurs because MTHFR inhibits the body from efficiently processing magnesium, leading to a deficiency.

The Role of Magnesium in the Body

Magnesium is an abundant mineral naturally present in the body that acts as a cofactor in hundreds of enzymatic processes and systems. It helps regulate biochemical reactions, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, and healthy blood pressure. Magnesium supports healthy muscle relaxation by inhibiting calcium influx and smooth muscle contractions. It is also crucial for energy production, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycolysis. Additionally, magnesium contributes to the development and maintenance of healthy bone structure and is needed for the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and the antioxidant glutathione.

Different Forms of Magnesium

There are various forms of magnesium supplements, each with unique benefits:

1. Magnesium Citrate: Excellent for maintaining digestive health, this form is often used to clear bowels and prevent constipation. As a muscle relaxant, it can help with leg cramps and is one of the most easily absorbed forms of magnesium.
2. Magnesium Malate: Crucial for ATP production, some research shows it can benefit patients with fibromyalgia and is an energizing form of magnesium rather than a relaxing one.
3. Magnesium Glycinate: Complexed with glycine, which acts as a calming agent in the body, this form has been shown to reduce back pain due to muscle spasms and calm the nervous system to combat chronic pain.
4. Magnesium Threonate: Provides significant benefits to the nervous system as it can cross the blood-brain barrier. It is associated with improved short-term and long-term memory when given to patients.

Ensuring you get enough magnesium is vital, especially for those with MTHFR mutations. Each form of magnesium offers specific benefits, so choosing the right one for your needs can help alleviate many of the symptoms associated with MTHFR and improve your overall health. Incorporate magnesium into your daily routine and experience the transformative effects it can have on your well-being.

SHOP MAGNESIUM FOR MTHFR HERE

# 3 Glass Water Bottle

# 4 Dry Brushing for MTHFR

If you haven’t noticed already, the #1 thing to do if you have MTHFR (or honestly, just in general) is DETOX, DETOX, DETOX.

The Benefits of Dry Brushing for MTHFR

Those with MTHFR gene mutations have a reduced capacity to detoxify their bodies due to impaired methylation processes. This makes it crucial to support detoxification through various means, and dry brushing is an excellent addition to any detox regimen. Dry brushing is a simple yet highly effective technique for promoting detoxification. It involves brushing your skin with a natural bristle brush, typically before showering.The benefits of dry brushing are numerous and particularly valuable for individuals with MTHFR gene mutations:

1. Enhanced Detoxification: By stimulating the lymphatic system, dry brushing helps to clear out toxins that accumulate due to inefficient methylation. This can help reduce the toxic load on the liver and other organs.
2. Improved Skin Health: Since the skin plays a vital role in detoxification, keeping it healthy and functioning properly is essential. Dry brushing helps maintain optimal skin health, aiding in the effective elimination of toxins.
3. Reduced Inflammation: Dry brushing can help reduce inflammation by promoting better blood flow and lymphatic drainage. This is important for individuals with MTHFR, as they are more prone to inflammation-related issues.
4. Support for Overall Health: The cumulative benefits of dry brushing—improved circulation, better skin health, and enhanced detoxification—support overall health and well-being. For those with MTHFR, this holistic support is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Incorporating dry brushing into your daily routine is a simple yet powerful way to enhance detoxification, especially for those with MTHFR mutations. Its benefits for the lymphatic system, skin health, circulation, and overall well-being make it an essential practice for supporting your body’s natural detox processes. Start dry brushing today and experience the revitalizing effects on your health and vitality.

SHOP DRY BRUSH FOR MTHFR HERE

# 5 Homocysteine Nutrients for MTHFR

# 6 Red Light Therapy for MTHFR

Red light therapy involves using low-level red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function and promote healing. This non-invasive at home light therapy making it an excellent addition to the wellness routine of individuals with MTHFR gene mutations.

The Benefits of Red Light Therapy

1. Enhanced Cellular Energy Production: Red light therapy stimulates the mitochondria, the powerhouse of cells, to produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Increased ATP production boosts cellular energy, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with MTHFR mutations who often experience chronic fatigue.
2. Reduced Inflammation: Red light therapy helps reduce inflammation by modulating the body’s inflammatory response. This can alleviate symptoms such as joint pain, muscle soreness, and chronic inflammatory conditions, which are common in those with MTHFR mutations.
3. Improved Detoxification: By enhancing cellular function, red light therapy supports the body’s natural detoxification processes. This is crucial for individuals with MTHFR mutations who have impaired detox pathways and struggle to eliminate toxins efficiently.
4. Enhanced Mood and Cognitive Function: Red light therapy has been shown to improve mood and cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain and supporting neurotransmitter production. This can help manage the mental health challenges often associated with MTHFR mutations, such as depression and anxiety.
5. Skin Health and Healing: Red light therapy promotes skin health by accelerating wound healing, reducing scars, and improving skin tone and texture. It stimulates collagen production, which is essential for maintaining youthful, healthy skin.

How Red Light Therapy Helps with MTHFR

Individuals with MTHFR mutations face unique challenges related to energy production, inflammation, and detoxification. Red light therapy addresses these issues by:

1. Boosting Mitochondrial Function: The enhanced ATP production from red light therapy supports overall energy levels and cellular health, helping to combat the fatigue often experienced by those with MTHFR mutations.
2. Reducing Inflammation and Pain: By modulating the inflammatory response, red light therapy can provide relief from chronic pain and inflammation, improving quality of life for individuals with MTHFR mutations.
3. Supporting Detox Pathways: Improved cellular function aids in the efficient elimination of toxins, which is crucial for individuals with compromised detoxification pathways due to MTHFR mutations.
4. Enhancing Mental Clarity and Mood: The cognitive benefits of red light therapy can help manage the mental health symptoms associated with MTHFR mutations, supporting better mood and cognitive function.

How to Use Red Light Therapy

Incorporating red light therapy into your routine is simple and can be done at home with a red light therapy device. Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a Quality Device: Select a red light therapy device that emits wavelengths between 600 and 900 nm, as these are the most effective for therapeutic benefits.
2. Start with Short Sessions: Begin with 5-10 minute sessions, gradually increasing the time as your body adjusts to the therapy.
3. Maintain Consistency: Use the device consistently, ideally daily or several times a week, to experience the full benefits.
4. Target Specific Areas: Focus on areas of the body that need the most attention, such as joints, muscles, or the face for skin benefits.

Red light therapy is a powerful tool for managing MTHFR gene mutations. By enhancing cellular energy production, reducing inflammation, supporting detoxification, and improving mental clarity, red light therapy offers a holistic approach to improving overall well-being.

SHOP RED LIGHT THERAPY FOR MTHFR HERE

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1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of purified water throughout the day to help your body flush out toxins and support overall health.
2. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to boost your circulation and support your body’s natural detoxification processes.
3. Mindful Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to maintain mental and emotional well-being.

And don’t forget to check out the book by Dr. Ben Lynch, founder of Seeking Health, “Dirty Genes.” After suffering for years with unexplainable health issues, Dr. Ben Lynch discovered the root cause—“dirty” genes. Genes can be “born dirty” or merely “act dirty” in response to your environment, diet, or lifestyle—causing lifelong, life-threatening, and chronic health problems, including cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, anxiety, depression, digestive issues, obesity, cancer, and diabetes.

Based on his own experience and successfully helping thousands of clients, Dr. Lynch shows you how to identify and optimize both types of dirty genes by cleaning them up with targeted and personalized plans, including healthy eating, good sleep, stress relief, environmental detox, and other holistic and natural means.

Many of us believe our genes doom us to the disorders that run in our families. But Dr. Lynch reveals that with the right plan in place, you can eliminate symptoms, and optimize your physical and mental health—and ultimately rewrite your genetic destiny.

And Most Importantly, Reduce Toxin Exposure

The most important thing to remember, MTHFR or not, is to reduce your toxin exposure. Use non-toxic skincare, non-toxic cleaning products (yes, they really work), and eat clean! With MTHFR, our bodies can’t detox properly, so we store these toxins in our fat cells, organs, and brain. The less exposure we have, the less we have to worry about detoxing to prevent major diseases.

XOXO,

Mariah

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SOURCES:

https://cbdafterlife.com/cbd-for-mthfr/ 

https://mthfrliving.com/uncategorized/can-cbd-help-with-mthfr-related-conditions-25-off/

https://mthfrsupport.com.au/2018/12/magnesium-and-methylation-from-heart-to-brain-health-what-is-the-best-form-for-you/ 

https://www.seekinghealth.com/products/magnesium-glycinate-powder-120-servings 

https://mthfrgenesupport.com/