MTHFR (methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase) is an enzyme and is coded by the MTHFR gene. A normal gene codes for a “healthy” enzyme that plays a vital role in converting folic acid into folate. Folate is the form of vitamin B9 that is usable by the body. It also plays a role in the conversion of homocysteine into methionine and this entire process is called as Methylation.
In biological terms, methylation involves installing a chemical group, called methyl group, onto an existing molecule with the help of enzymes. Methylation is involved in a variety of different biological processes, one of which is regulation of expression of genes and regulation of protein function.
Many methylation processes in our body are governed by enzymes which are heavily dependent upon the B vitamins. A problem with B vitamin metabolism can create different health problems. Through analyses of genes that function in methylation processes, it is easy for us to understand which B vitamin is deficient. Accordingly, the correct supplement of that particular B vitamin can be given to the individual to fulfill the nutritional requirement.
I had been facing several idiopathic health issues like continuous full body itching and redness, which worsened when I consumed sour foods and also by heat. I have tried many medications and have been visiting doctors since a long time. Every medication that I ever took was to manage my condition of itchings but the real cause and treatment was still a mystery to me.
After discussing my issues with the counsellors at GeneSupport, I was advised to undergo Health Panel, that gave me a broad idea that my genes weren’t supporting methylation in my body to the fullest extent. I was suggested methylcobalamine supplementation to maintain my homocysteine levels, which was actually the underlying cause for my skin and other health issues.
I was also told that genetically I have a high ability to generate oxidants (toxins) which my body is unable to metabolize, hence I was suggested to include antioxidants (Vit A,E,C) and 4-7 servings of fruits and vegetables on regular basis.
After following the recommendations, I could experience significant symptomatic changes like decrease in itching and redness, which I’m very happy about. I’m sure, gradually I would be free of all the troubles that I faced in all these years.
I have sensitive skin and it gets irritated pretty easily. This irritation usually gets worse during the dry winter months. I also had accompanying digestive issues. I tried many remedies, from conventional to Ayurvedic to many alternative therapies. But nothing really helped me for long. I got to know about GeneSupport and its novel way of looking at health problems. After my initial counseling with a very knowledgeable and delightful Counselor, I chose to get the Health Panel test done. I got my results and recommendations and started following them religiously. Since my skin irritation starts during the onset of winter months, I was recommended Vitamin A supplementation which I have been taking for close to two years. I also take Folic Acid Tablets. I feel that my skin is in far better condition than before. It’s less dry and has gained a new suppleness that was missing before. My BMI, fat percentage and muscle strength shows a significant improvement.
1) “Diet–gene interactions are highly complex and hard to predict, thus demonstrating the need for highly controlled genotypes and environmental conditions that allow for identifying different regulatory patterns based on diet and genotype. The challenges we now face may ultimately require a nutrigenomics project on the scale of the Human Genome Project in order to identify genes that cause or promote chronic disease and the nutrients that regulate or influence the activity of these genes.” – Dr. Jim Kaput, FDA National Center for Toxicological Research..
2) “The new science of Nutrigenomics provides vital clues to new tools available for promoting good health and preventing and treating disease.” – Dr. Christine Houghton
GeneSupport is one of the pioneer companies in India, working to makes lives better using genes based personalized nutrition. The main backbone of our high-end services is the expert team we house. With years of experience in the field of Nutrigenomics, our experts – Dr. Geeta Dharmatti and Dr. R.D. Dixit are guiding the path to provide robust health and wellness services across the country.
Our genetic test involves a simple saliva or blood test. For this, you can choose to either visit our center or share your address with us to undertake doorstep delivery of the sample collection kits. The sample collection process is very easy; you just need to follow the basic steps mentioned on the kit. Once the sample is collected it is taken back to our lab and processed further. The results take a few weeks after which a detailed genetic report is prepared by our team. The report explains your diet plan and lifestyle modifications, which are followed by counselling by our experts.
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Genetic mutations in an enzyme related to amino acid metabolism called MTHFR and coagulation protein Factor V appear to have a significant association with blood clots and tissue injury to the placenta and developing baby, researchers from the University of Pittsburgh’s department of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences report. “This indicates a possible genetic predisposition to a condition of real clinical consequence regarding intrauterine growth restriction, preeclampsia, and spontaneous preterm birth,” the researchers say.
A research group from the Netherlands investigated the effect of vitamin supplements on homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease. They found that homocysteine levels are dependent on Marsh classification and the regular use of B-vitamin supplements is useful in the reduction of homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease and should be considered in disease management.
Medical researchers have identified a gene with mutations that cause febrile seizures and contribute to a severe form of epilepsy known as a Dravet syndrome in some of the most vulnerable patients — infants 6 months and younger.
As DNA sequencing becomes cheaper, it will become common for people to have their complete genomes sequenced. Personal genomes will not only tell people about genetic susceptibility to cancer and heart disease but will also tell them which vitamins and how much can improve their health. A new study shows that one enzyme can be tuned up with vitamins, suggesting that one day we all may take personalized vitamin supplements.
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