COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 199
Effects of Impaired Methylation
Hormone Imbalance: When methylation is impaired, estrogen
metabolism can be disrupted, potentially raising the risk of
hormone-related conditions such as breast and prostate cancer.
High Homocysteine: Linked to cardiovascular disease.
Poor Detoxification: Reduced toxin clearance can accumulate
toxins in the body.
Neurotransmitter Deficits: Can impact mood, cognitive function,
and mental health.
Altered DNA Methylation: Associated with increased cancer risk
due to disrupted gene expression.
B Vitamins, Folate, and the Mystery of Methylation
Folate, or vitamin B9, is one of the most critical nutrients involved in
the methylation process. It’s needed to produce 5-MTHF, the
active form utilized in methylation reactions.
Though it may seem like a simple B vitamin, folate has an outsized
impact on the body.
Other key B vitamins that support healthy methylation include B9
(as 5-MTHF), B12 (as methylcobalamin), B6 (as P5P), and B2
(riboflavin)4all essential for maintaining optimal methylation
function.
Other B vitamins like B1, B3, B5, and B7 support general health.
Supporting Methylation
Histamine Intolerance: Methylation is essential for breaking down
histamine. When this process is impaired, it can result in symptoms
like skin rashes, headaches, food sensitivities, and allergy-like
reactions.
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