If you have MTHFR gene mutations, specifically MTHFR gene polymorphisms, it’s vital that you understand the importance of the role that vitamin B12 plays in various conditions and which B12 is best for you. When it comes to vitamin B12 all are not created equal. Especially for those with MTHFR. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that is required to come from our diet. It is estimated that modern food production practices over many years have lost upwards of 75% of their vitamin B12 values. This is a big problem for anyone and this potentially represents an even bigger problem for people with MTHFR gene mutations.
Understanding MTHFR
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of folate and homocysteine. The MTHFR gene provides instructions for making this enzyme, which is necessary for the conversion of 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate (5,10-MTHF) to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). This conversion is essential for the production of methionine, an amino acid that is necessary for various bodily functions. Methionine is involved in protein synthesis, DNA repair, and the production of other important molecules in the body. Without proper MTHFR function, these critical processes can be disrupted, leading to a range of health issues.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency symptoms & MTHFR
The usual symptoms of a B12 deficiency include:
Poor hair condition
Eczema or dermatitis
An oversensitive mouth is too hot and cold
Irritability
Anxiety
Tension
Lack of energy
Constipation
Tender or sore muscles
Pale skin
Cobalamin deficiency, which is another term for vitamin B12 deficiency, can lead to serious hematological consequences such as anemia and hyperhomocysteinemia.
But it’s important to understand. When it comes to MTHFR conditions that vitamin B12 works with other B complex vitamins. Especially folic acid or folate. Therefore the following symptoms of folate deficiency can also be a big indicator of a B12 deficiency such as:
Anemia
Eczema
Cracked lips
Prematurely greying hair
Anxiety
Tension
Poor memory
Lack of energy
Poor appetite
Stomach pains
Depression
What this means is your vitamin B12 levels can look good on paper after you have been to the doctor. But this doesn’t mean that you are able to use that B12 properly if you have MTHFR gene mutations.
Because vitamins B12 and folate team up and work with each other and the fact that all other vitamins and minerals are affected by their relationship means that you can have any of the MTHFR symptoms that are the direct result of multiple vitamin and mineral deficiencies that can’t be resolved by taking a common multivitamin and mineral supplements.
Can MTHFR cause high b12?
The short answer is yes, MTHFR mutations can cause high B12 on a blood test result, this is because of lower production of folate which means that more B12 may not have enough folate to work with, which leads to higher B12 levels. Higher B12 levels can also be the result of inhibitors that interfere with the MTHFR process and therefore support MTHFR high B12. High B12 MTHFR problems are very common, MTHFR and high B12 often also result from MTHFR B12 supplements that are used in excess.
MTHFR high B12, MTHFR, and high b12 MTHFR B12 supplement…
Vitamin B12 and elevated homocysteine levels
When you have MTHFR gene mutations you lack the enzymes responsible for the conversion of folate that you eat into the active form 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate. When you have MTHFR gene mutations, you may also experience elevated plasma total homocysteine, which is an independent risk factor for various health issues, particularly cardiovascular disease. However, this important reaction is then directly involved in the utilization of vitamin B12. Which is vitally important in the processing of homocysteine. So, if your vitamin B12 is not working properly because your folate metabolism isn’t working properly this causes homocysteine imbalances which are considered a serious health problem for anyone, especially for those with MTHFR gene mutations. If you are positive for MTHFR a good homocysteine reading should be between 7 – 8 µmol/L and vitamin serum B12 levels should be above 500 – 800. If this is not the case you should seek a mthfr treatment.
Which B12 vitamin is best for MTHFR
Most people are aware of the benefits of having B vitamins in terms of taking nutritional supplements. More often than not people who take vitamin B complex supplements may be doing themselves more harm than good. When it comes to the MTHFR condition. Most B complex supplements have two problems that dramatically affect those with MTHFR gene mutations these include:
Folic acid
Vitamin B12 as cyanocobalamin
Monitoring folic acid serum levels is crucial for individuals with MTHFR gene mutations to ensure that their B12 supplementation is effective and does not lead to further complications.
Folic acid is a synthetic “man-made” form of folate. Which actually interferes with the absorption of real folate in those with MTHFR. This makes life much harder for those with the gene defect increasing the deficiency of the already reduced ability to absorb and use folate.
The “cyanocobalamin” version of B12 is made from cyanide which over time may have toxic effects, this form of B12 is not ideal and for those with MTHFR gene mutations, it can more often than not be harder for their body to use vs other forms of B12. This synthetic “man-made” form of vitamin B12 has low biological activity. This means that it has to be converted in the liver to become a more active form so it can be used. Those with existing gene mutations may have more trouble breaking down the cyanocobalamin version of B12 which is not ideal.
The best type of B12 vitamin for MTHFR is very much dependent on the following:
Which type of MTHFR gene mutation you are diagnosed with
The symptoms you experience with MTHFR
Your family history of the disease
Your homocysteine balance
If you are a smoker or have smoked in the past
Your blood pressure
Your diet
Mental status
Elevated serum tHcy levels: Monitoring these levels can help determine the effectiveness of B12 supplementation and the need for adjustments.
It’s best to consult your mthfr practitioner about which form of B12 is best for your condition. Here are some of the forms of vitamin B12 used in cases of MTHFR gene mutations:
Methylcobalamin (an active form of B12)
Hydroxycobalamin (a nitric oxide scavenger)
Adenosylcobalamin (energy production)
Depending on the type of gene you have been diagnosed with will depend on which B12 vitamin is right for you. In some instances taking the wrong one can cause unwanted symptoms. This is because there are often other mutations involved such as COMT (Catechol-O-Methyltransferase) that don’t respond well to certain B12 supplements.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency, folate deficiency, and methyl trapping
People with MTHFR gene mutations often have hidden B12 deficiencies which cause the active form of folate 5-methyl THF or 5-methyltetrahydrofolate to become trapped, this is known as the methyl-folate trap, when this happens, taking the MTHFR recommended supplements can cause serious harm and should be avoided until the underlying reasons for the B12 deficiency can be addressed and the right type of B12 can be prescribed.
Elevated homocysteine levels due to MTHFR gene mutations are linked to an increased risk of vascular disease, making it essential to manage these levels effectively.
Health Implications
Mutations in the MTHFR gene can lead to reduced enzyme activity, resulting in elevated homocysteine levels in the blood. Elevated homocysteine levels are a risk factor for various health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and neurological disorders. Additionally, MTHFR gene mutations have been linked to an increased risk of folate deficiency, which can lead to megaloblastic anemia and other health problems. Folate deficiency can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating. Understanding the health implications of MTHFR gene mutations is essential for managing and mitigating these risks.
Testing and Diagnosis
Testing for MTHFR gene mutations typically involves a blood test or a cheek swab. The test can detect the presence of specific mutations, such as the C677T and A1298C polymorphisms. If a mutation is detected, further testing may be necessary to determine the severity of the mutation and the impact on enzyme activity. Diagnosis of MTHFR-related disorders typically involves a combination of genetic testing, medical history, and physical examination.
In individuals with MTHFR gene mutations, folic acid supplementation may be necessary to maintain adequate folate levels and prevent elevated homocysteine levels. However, the effectiveness of folic acid supplementation in reducing homocysteine levels is significantly correlated with the presence of MTHFR gene mutations. Therefore, genetic testing is essential to determine the best course of treatment.
In addition to genetic testing, plasma folate and homocysteine levels can be measured to assess the impact of MTHFR gene mutations on folate metabolism. Red blood cell folate levels can also be measured to assess the severity of folate deficiency. Elevated serum total homocysteine (tHcy) levels are a common indicator of MTHFR-related disorders, and plasma homocysteine concentration can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
Overall, understanding MTHFR gene mutations and their impact on folate metabolism is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of related disorders. Genetic testing, medical history, and physical examination are all important tools in the diagnosis and management of MTHFR-related disorders.
MTHFR & Vitamin B12
As you can see there are many reasons to consider B12 vitamins in the proper treatment of MTHFR conditions, this vital nutrient can make a big difference to the outcome of a person’s overall health but it is important to get it right. Vitamin B12 is not the only consideration but it does play a big role in how you respond to MTHFR treatments. Because vitamin B12 works with almost every other vitamin and mineral directly and indirectly getting it working for you is vital in the proper treatment of MTHFR.
