The REAL Reason MTHFR Mutation Affects Your Health

About this Video

• Video Title: The REAL Reason MTHFR Mutation Affects Your Health
• Channel: Dr. Paul Anderson
• Speakers: Dr. Paul Anderson
• Duration: 00:08:54

Introduction

This video explains the MTHFR gene, its role in the methylation cycle, and how its mutations affect health. Dr. Anderson details the enzyme's function, the impact of different MTHFR mutations (homozygous vs. heterozygous), and the resulting downstream effects on the body, including neurological function, DNA synthesis, and immune response.

Key Takeaways

• MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) enzyme: Converts inactive folic acid into its active form, 5-methylfolate, crucial for the methylation cycle.
• Methylation cycle: A complex process involving multiple enzymes; MTHFR is just one step, impacting DNA synthesis and neurological function.
• MTHFR gene mutations (SNPs): Variations in the MTHFR gene can reduce the enzyme's activity, leading to decreased 5-methylfolate production. Heterozygous mutations reduce activity by 25-33%; homozygous mutations reduce it by 50-66%.
• Downstream effects of reduced MTHFR activity: Include neurological issues, impaired DNA synthesis (affecting rapidly dividing tissues like the GI tract, bone marrow, and skin), and increased inflammation due to poor homocysteine processing.
• Mitigation strategies: Consuming foods rich in methylfolate (dark leafy greens) and supplementing with 5-methylfolate can help alleviate the effects of MTHFR mutations.