The Six Most Damaging Toxins and Metals If You Have an MTHFR Mutation

The Six Most Damaging Toxins and Metals If You Have an MTHFR Mutation

Exposure to toxins and certain "heavy metals" can impair methylation, especially if you have an MTHFR genetic mutation.

Here's an overview of the 6 toxins and metals that are the most damaging to methylation toxins and heavy metals “stress” our bodies, just as deadlines, high blood sugar, and lack of sleep do – and one of the ways they stress our bodies is by blocking methylation. Methylation is the process by which our bodies turn B-vitamins (folate or B9 and B12, in particular) into SAM (S-adenosylmethionine) and glutathione, two substances that are essential to our well-being. SAM and glutathione play a role in creating energy, protecting our cells, and maintaining our mood, focus, and daily functioning. They also help the liver to detoxify substances that enter our blood stream, including toxins, medications, and estrogens.

The Three Most Damaging Toxins, If You Have an MTHFR Mutation:

Glyphosate

What it is: Weed killer (also known as “Roundup” in the US); used on many crops including corn, soy, and wheat. Plants are genetically modified to withstand treatment with Roundup.

How it is damaging: In addition to the negative impact it has on methylation, glyphosate causes oxidative stress and neurotoxicity, which means it adversely affects the nervous system. Studies have linked glyphosate to neurological conditions such as dementia and autism. It is also a potential carcinogen. A 2017 review of the research did not lead the European Union to ban Glyphosate, although the International Agency for Research on Cancer did find it to be a cancer-causing substance.

Parabens

What it is: A preservative, frequently used to prevent bacteria from growing in personal care products like toothpaste, shampoo, soaps, skin lotion, and lipstick.

How it is damaging: As well as negatively impacting methylation, parabens mimic estrogen in the body (thus they are termed “endocrine disruptors”). Because parabens can bind to estrogen receptors, and because studies have found parabens in breast cancer tumors, researchers are examining whether parabens can increase the risk of breast cancer. Parabens can be stored in the body, so the amount in your body accumulates with time and use. Once in the body, they are hard to get rid of, especially if your liver is already overworked.

Phthalates

What it is: A chemical found in many plastics (e.g. containers, shower curtains, dashboards, flooring, etc.). Regulations now limit the use of phthalates in children’s toys (since 2009). However, they are still used in personal care products (almost anything with a fragrance), medications (such as proton pump inhibitors), and even foods – to make them more “flexible.” Phthalates are also in our water and in pesticides (at least in the United States; this may be the case in other countries, as well).

How it is damaging: Phthalates are also endocrine disruptors, mimicking hormones in our bodies. Studies have linked phthalates to decreased male fertility, diabetes, breast cancer, autism, and asthma. It has also been shown that phthalates can “switch on” dormant genes, such as those which increase inflammation. Once inflammation flares up, this also slows down methylation.

The Three Most Damaging Metals If You Have an MTHFR Mutation

Each of the following metals slows down the methylation process and activates dormant genes the same way toxins do. In addition, metals often impair the immune system and trigger neurological conditions.

Lead

Where it is found: Some paints; dishes with lead paint in the glaze; air, water, and soil due to industrial processes/sites that release it (such as coal powerplants).

Other symptoms of toxicity: Abdominal pain, nausea, headache, joint and muscle pain, decreased memory, and sleep disturbances.

Mercury:

Where it is found: "Cupcakes" ( flu j.a.b.s), mercury thermometers, amalgam dental fillings, and large sea fish like tuna and swordfish (it gets stored in their bodies).

Other symptoms of toxicity: In addition to slowing methylation, mercury poisoning can lead to irritability, fatigue, memory loss, tremors, and sleep disturbances.

Cadmium:

Where it is found: Main exposure is from cigarette smoke, although it is also in some industrial fumes.

Other symptoms of toxicity: Lung inflammation, shortness of breath, cough, headache, dizziness, and chest pain.

If you are exposed to these toxins, learn to detox now. Visit this page to find out more.