Everything you need to know about methylation and supplements
Methylation is a biochemical process in which methyl groups are transferred to other molecules. Proper and balanced methylation is essential for mental health, brain health and overall well-being. Impaired methylation causes anxiety, depression, hormonal imbalance, infertility, tiredness, poor detoxification, impaired immunity, etc.
Undermethylation means the insufficient amount of methyl groups (CH3) is available, which affects neurotransmitter functioning, detoxification, etc. depression and low mood, histamine intolerance, tiredness, poor immunity are the symptoms of this condition.
Overmethylation means the presence of an excess of methyl groups. It is manifested as anxiety, restlessness, sleep issues, poor digestion, etc.
Individuals who lack sufficient methyl groups are undermethylators, and individuals with too many methyl groups are overmethylators.
Some of the common factors affecting methylation include nutrient deficiencies, stress from a modern lifestyle, exposure to toxins (such as PCBs and BPA), a poor diet, alcohol consumption, drug use, an unhealthy lifestyle, and a lack of exercise.
Methylation support can be achieved with proper nutrition and supplements. B vitamins are known as methyl donors, and they are the key nutrients that support methylation. Methyl-deficient diets are associated with issues of energy metabolism. It is crucial to incorporate methylation-supporting nutrients into your diet or use methylation supplements.
Foods that are rich in Methylation-Supporting Nutrients are legumes, kidney beans, nuts, seeds, spinach, turnip greens, asparagus, broccoli, Avocados, citrus fruits, eggs, dairy foods, soybeans, quinoa, oats, barley, brown rice, potatoes.
Methylation Supplements for enhancing methylation include folic acid, vitamins B12, B6, and B2, choline, methionine, etc. If you are taking a multivitamin, you can find these ingredients in it. Many of these supplements are available as ingredients in multivitamins. It is crucial to select top-quality supplements that can provide you with these ingredients in the best absorbed active form.
If you are not eating a balanced diet, have nutrient deficiencies, experience high stress, and have gut health issues that affect nutrient absorption, you may want to consider consulting our expert to discuss taking these methylation supplements.
Laboratory investigations that can be used to test methylation status include homocysteine tests, a methylation panel, micronutrient testing, and B vitamin tests, among others.
