What is MTHFR?
MTHFR, short for Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase, is a very important enzyme in the body.
It’s necessary for Methylation to occur, which is essential to convert both folate and folic acid into its active, usable form – 5-MTHF.
Without the enzyme activity of MTHFR, methylation of folate and folic acid cannot occur properly.
What is MTHFR Mutation?
The MTHFR gene triggers the production of MTHFR enzymes.
Roughly 30-50% of us carry a mutation in the MTHFR gene which can limit production of MTHFR enzymes.
These MTHFR mutations are split into two general categories:
- A1298C
- C677T
Most people with a mutation remain unaffected and do not experience symptoms. However, for some, enzyme efficiency can drop down to between 30-70% depending on the variant of mutation.
Symptoms of a MTHFR mutation include high homocysteine levels, folate deficiency and miscarriage. The only way to know if you have a mutation for sure is to get a genetic test.
An MTHFR mutation itself is not inherently dangerous, but knowing what the gene is and how it could affect your folate level is seen by many as beneficial.
What is L-Methylfolate (5-MTHF)?
L-methylfolate, or 5-MTHF, is the biologically active form of folate (vitamin B9).
Biologically active means it is the form the human body can actually use in circulation.
It’s thought those with a “severe” MTHFR mutation may not be able to utilize other forms of folate (namely folic acid), so L-methylfolate becomes important.
This compound occurs naturally in many foods, but is also available in a supplement form.
More on MTHFR and 5-MTHF
All articles about MTHFR
MTHFR Mutation Guide For Non-Sciencey Types! Symptoms and Diet Explained
[Last Updated 28th December, 2018]
All humans have the same set of genes.
Our differences come from the tiny variations in those genes.
Those variations influence not only in how you look or behave different to others… But in how your body reacts differently to external factors. Especially how it reacts to the foods you eat and lifestyle you live.[Discover More…]
MTHFR, Folic Acid and Folate: Should I Eat It?
[Last Updated 14th November, 2018]
MTHFR mutations are well-known genetic variations that can impact folate metabolism.
But there is a lot of confusion whether we should eat more or less folate.
This short article explains it in human terms.[Discover More…]
APOE4, Diet and Alzheimer’s Disease: Explained in Human Terms
[Last updated 3rd April, 2019]
The number of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease will reach a staggering 14 million by 2050 (1).
Certain factors contribute to risk, including lifestyle, diet and genetics… In particular a genetic variant known as APOE4.
This article attempts to explain the link between diet, the APOE4 gene and Alzheimer’s in plain English.[Discover More…]
MTHFR C677T and A1298C: Explained In Plain English
[Last updated 7th March, 2023]
All humans have certain genetic variations or “mutations” that can influence our health.
One of the more well-studied variations is known as an MTHFR mutation; more specifically MTHFR C677T and A1298C.
Unfortunately, not only is the concept of genetics difficult, but the terminology makes it even more confusing.
This article attempts to clarify what an MTHFR C677T and A1298C mutation is, in a way you can understand.[Discover More…]
L-Methylfolate (5-MTHF): Your Must-Read Beginner’s Guide
[Last updated 7th March, 2023]
Folate and folic acid are nutrients required for many critical functions in the body.
Unfortunately, many who have a genetic MTHFR mutation are unable to utilise these nutrients properly.
L-Methylfolate (5-MTHF) has emerged as a popular alternative, and has been used as a complementary medicine in several recent clinical trials.
This article covers what you need to know about it, but explained in human terms.[Discover More…]