Methylation is a key biological pathway in the body. Mutations in the MTHFR gene have been linked to ADHD. Find out how supporting your methylation pathway can help you manage your ADHD symptoms.
What is methylation?
It is a chemical process that happens all the time in the body. It impacts DNA production, neurotransmitters, detoxification, histamine balance, estrogen metabolism and more.
The MTHFR enzyme concerverts folate into its bioavailable form of methylfolate, which is needed to produce serotonin and dopamine.
Studies show that certain genetic alleles of the MTHFR gene are associated with an increased risk for depression, anxiety and ADHD. A reduced enzyme functionality has a direct impact on the production of serotonin, dopamine, melatonin, norepinephrine and epinephrine.
When you have a mutation in of these variants who will most likely struggle to metabolize and utilize B12 and Folate, which can result in anemia, brain fog, confusion, depression, anxiety, low energy, mood disorders, sensory overload, poor reaction to medications and hormone imbalance.
People with certain MTHFR and other methylation SNP’s have an increased need for B vitamins (B2, B3, B6, B9 and B12), Choline and zinc and magnesium. The body struggles to convert B vitamins into a usable form, which is why methylated B vitamins are often needed. The conversion steps have already been done, meaning B12 and B9 can get straight to work in the cell as they are bio-available.
Genetic testing is the first step to find out if you have variants that put you at risk for methylation problems.
The ADHD connection
For many women, Methylation problems are linked to miscarriage, birth defects, preeclampsia, PMS, PPMD and a harder time through the pre and post menopausal years. Methylation problems can make ADHD and autism harder to deal with. It can also increase anxiety and depression.
A lot of people are put onto SSRI’S to treat depression. However, the cause for depression could be due to a dysfunctional methylation pathway. Support methylation and you could see a vast improvement in depression, cognitive function and ADHD symptoms.
Contact me for more info on getting your genetic test.