This therapist is a little on the alternate side. In the first session I was informed that she takes a holistic approach and that diet and physical health should also be discussed in our sessions, which I had no issue with. I agree that the body's health can play a major role in mental wellbeing so this seemed sensible to me. In our second session, I was asked a series of yes/no questions about my general wellbeing, both physically and mentally. Long story short, my answers apparently indicated that I may have a MTHFR genetic mutation...
Sounds serious, what does it mean? I was told that this mutation could be identified with a blood test (this is true), but many GPs would probably not know enough to accurately interpret the results (mmm...). I could be referred to a GP who specialises in this issue. While the initial session was pricey ($400), subsequent session were more reasonable. If that was not affordable, a naturopath could certainly interpret the results (warning bells). I said I would do some research and think about my options.
The Basics
I am far from a geneticist, but from what I can gather the MTHFR gene helps turn folate and B12 into something the body can use (Click here to read a more sciencey and correct explanation). According to Genetics Home Reference there are at least 40 known mutations of the gene. I have read different statistics, but it seems a large proportion of people have a mutation (40% seems most consistent). This can have any number of impacts on the body, as you would imagine if your body is not receiving or using necessary vitamins or minerals. In my particular case, it is assumed this mutation would be causing or influencing my depressed mood, fatigue, PCOS and possibly most signs of ill health that I have.
My Research
The first result when you google will be mthfrsupport.com.au. This site offers some simple explanation about what the MTHFR gene and folate does. It lists all the possible conditions that the mutation could cause. They have videos and information available, some for free and some at a cost. For many people who have received the diagnosis, I'm sure the support offered through a group like this is a useful tool in facilitating lifestyle changes.
But that wasn't really enough for me so I kept looking. Generally speaking, there is a lot of information out there which is both interesting and conflicting. The jury is out in regards to how or if MTHFR mutations correlate directly to depression or other mental health issues (Click here for a scientific review on current research). The impact of B vitamins on mental wellbeing is generally accepted (fun fact, folate is B9), so an issue in the body's production is bound to lead to some health concerns- the same as with any other vitamin deficiency. Although nothing I read is as dire as alternate health circles seem to promote, there is a 'watch this space' vibe in relation to the research that is being done. The American Journal of Epidemiology, for example, note that a connection between the MTHFR variant and certain mental illnesses may lead to the use of folate as a treatment and preventative measure. It also may not, but if it doesn't, at least we will know. I love when potential is explored!
Where to now?
Yes, after my research I am open to the possibility that a genetic mutation may be contributing to my currently poor mental and physical wellbeing (family history and past experience also add to my consideration). I am not, however, convinced that this is the root cause of every woe that has or will befall upon me. Humans are an intricate web of biology, emotion, experience and environment. Different triggers lead to different results for all of us, even on a genetic level. I am also far from convinced by the industry that has built up around it. People are spending exorbitant amounts of money to be tested, see specialists and receive treatment. Did I really need to embark on such a journey to get healthy and escape the clutches of the MTHFRing gene?
I've decided on no. According to Science Based Medicine, high homocysteine and low folate levels can indicate a mutation and both can be checked with blood tests. Even if you go the extra mile and get genetic tests, NSW Health state that "there are currently no recommended changes in clinical management based on an MTHFR test result."
Regardless of who you see, the answer to low folate and/or B12 will be supplementation, with or without a genetic mutation. If there is a deficiency in folate or B12, levels should be monitored by a professional because too much can cause as many problems as too little. I'm pretty confident my bulk billed doctor can help with that. The debate is still raging for me in regards to folic acid vs activated folic acid. Methylfolate currently makes sense, but I haven't found much research on it yet. You can google the meanings of that yourself.
A change in diet and lifestyle habits may be just as effective and will have other positive health outcomes. While researching, I found that chickpeas, spinach, dried beans and lentils are top sources of folate, which reminded me of how good I felt when I did the 30 day vegan challenge a couple of years ago. I had a lot more energy, lost excess weight and my skin was so clear. Coincidently, my food staples at the time were chickpeas, spinach and lentils, all the high sources of folate. The positive results were no doubt due to increased vegetable intake and reduction of processed foods, but the possibility that a higher intake of folate helped is not lost on me.
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| Nom, Chickpeas |
So I am experimenting with my body, taking it back to basics and testing how I feel, starting with a 30 day modified vegan challenge (I'm going to eat eggs, don't want to make it too unachievable). I may or may not have the MTHFR genetic mutation, but I am certain that I will benefit from a healthier diet. I will be getting a blood test done next week to see where I am at with folate and B12 and work from there.
For all those who have had positive results by chasing the MTHFR specialist route, I'm happy for you. If you feel better, have a more fulfilling life and absolutely incredible results, then you should be happy. For those at the start who choose to take that path, I hope you have equally great results too, I do not underestimate the value of support networks when making lifestyle changes. If you are reading this and something resonates with you, don't just do what I am doing either. Go and do the research yourself to find what will work for you. If you think seeing specialists is the best way to tackle the changes you need to make, then do it, but don't just follow their lead blindly. Read, research and take charge of the direction you want your life to go in. The people you pay to help you should be worth your money. I'll be sure to keep you updated on my progress, because even if it fails it is a lesson learnt.
And of course, discuss! If you have ideas, thoughts or related articles to share, lets do this. Nothing bad can come out of a conversation (unless we make it bad, in which case I'll delete all my posts and comments and run away from the internet).
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