The Methylation Cycle is important for over 200 processes in your body, which can lead to an entire host of symptoms. Methylation is a simple biochemical process – it is the transfer of four atoms – one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms (CH3) – from one substance to another.
One of the most important processes this cycle is involved in is gene expression. The methylation cycle can affect chemistry in the brain, immune response, inflammation, and antioxidant production as well. By altering our epigenetics via lifestyle and food changes, we can alter epigenetic expression over time to help you reach peak performance and alleviate symptoms.
A good analogy is to look at the body as a machine, with multiple gears and switches. Methylation is the process that turns these biological switches on and off (via demethylation). This is done with the donation of a methyl group (CH3) from one molecule to another.
When the methylation cycle is not functioning properly, certain molecules cannot be produced in an efficient manner, including:
- Glutathione, body’s master antioxidant
- Liver detox via Sulfation pathways
- Coenzyme Q10
- Melatonin
- Serotonin, dopamine, Epi, N-EPI, if you have healthy gut & diet but struggle with anxiety & depression, this can be due to MTHFR mutation
- (It is estimated approximately 60% of people in the United States have a genetic mutation that makes it harder for our bodies to produce 5-MTHF on its own.)
- Nitric Oxide
- L-Carnitine
- Cysteine
- Taurine