Having MTHFR mutations increases the likelihood of elevated homocysteine levels.
Monitoring your homocysteine level is critical especially if elevated.
The issue is homocysteine testing is fraught with issues.
Properly prepare yourself to get your homocysteine level measured.
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- You should be fasting. Do not eat anything prior to testing. Ideally get tested in the morning to make this easier.
- Many foods contain protein and most protein contains methionine.
- High-methionine containing foods can falsely elevate your homocysteine levels.
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Ensure the lab handles your blood sample properly.
[unordered_list style=”tick”]
- Within 30 minutes of drawing your blood, the sample must be placed on ice and spun down.
- Red blood cells continue to release homocysteine so they must be removed.
- Homocysteine levels increase by 10% per hour if the red blood cells are not removed.
- Once red blood cells and serum are removed, the remaining plasma remains stable at room temperature for 4 days.
[/unordered_list]
Do you actually have high homocysteine?
High homocysteine is a significant issue and it can often times be easy to lower with the right nutrients.
Here is what I recommend to try and lower your homocysteine level:
- HomocysteX Plus: contains a combination of methylation supportive nutrients. High homocysteine occurs because methylation is not running smoothly. Consider taking one capsule of HomocysteX Plus daily until your homocysteine levels are around 7-8 umol/L and then use it sparingly or as needed.
- PQQ Lozenge: At times, high homocysteine is worsened by free radicals or reactive oxygen species. Consider taking one PQQ Lozenge daily. Swallow it vs sucking on it as the natural microbial ferment of PQQ may cause some blue discoloration on your tongue. By swallowing it, this doesn’t occur. My wife loves this supplement and has bottles everywhere – in her car, kitchen, bathroom, etc. It’s very effective at reducing oxidative stress which slows down methylation. PQQ is also better tolerated than liposomal glutathione – which is very much needed for methylation – but should be taken after PQQ to help reduce oxidative stress and increase tolerance of liposomal glutathione.
Caution of Home Test Kits for Measuring Homocysteine:
There are homocysteine test kits online which claim you can do a finger stick and send in your sample on a card. Obviously, now that you know the above requirements are needed for proper homocysteine level measurement, this type of homocysteine testing is inaccurate.
Source of Information: Laboratory Medicine. 2006;37(9):551-553. 2006 American Society for Clinical Pathology
Question for you:
Is your homocysteine routinely elevated? Are you questioning it now? Comment below.
Can I deduce my homocysteine and/or histamine levels from an amino acid test (tests the usual 20)?
Level elevated as tested by Dr Bullington . pretty sure pevious testd not handled correctly. Imagine she will yest again. IL-Bs, TNF, C4a, and TGIF-B1 consistently very high when with Dr Shoemaker. Wonder how methylation defect impacts TGIF-B1. Miserable, frankly. Have been seen 1996, but getting wiped out of coping. Cry and cry. Can’t control emotions or feeling of massive stress.
My homocysteine level was abnormally low after I suffered a DVT and massive, bi-lateral pulmonary embolism. I’m a TT homozygote. Did the Lovenox lower it? I typically am Vit. K deficicient. What could explain a low homocysteine?
What does ‘low’ mean? Need a number.
Also you need to evaluate your SAH and adenosine levels – not just homocysteine.
Glad you are ok.
Answered it myself. CBSA360 upregulates and keeps the homocysteine low. What a good pair of SNPs to have together!
My homocysteine level was 4 after my DVT.
They pushed 2 boluses of adenosine on the ambulance incoming to the ED.
A repeat test of my homocysteine is still at 4. I have C677T homozygous and a CBS mutation (supposed to make it higher as well, right?) I sometimes have low albumin levels and edema. I’m being evaluated for a metabolic disease.
We’ve recently uncovered the mthfr mutation in my family. My daughter is homozygous c677t. Two weeks ago her homocysteine level was 17 and yesterday we received results of a test that said she was 8.8? I read the article above, she did not eat anything before both tests but she did have a coffee before test resulting in level of 17 is the coffee enough to cause such a variance? She’s been referred to a cardiologist based on symptoms and homocysteine level of 17. Should I disregard results and start over this is all overwhelming. She’s had health issues for 12 years and she’s only 24. She’s been diagnosed with Polycystic ovary syndrome, subclinical hypothyroidism , chest wall syndrome. She gets strep throat 2 to 3 times a year she’s had mono three times. She went to Peru for two weeks and came home so sick at the age of 17 that it took months to get back on her feet. We’ve been trying to find the root issue for a long long time. She constantly has pain in chest, her joints give her issues frequently and her bone structure is very large. I don’t even no who to turn to anymore I have told this same story to three MD’S , two endocrinologist ,one pediatric cardiologist, one gynecologist a naturopath and two nurse practioners and a dentist because she still has baby teeth, at 24! We’ve hired personal trainers to help her lose weight she just keeps expanding even with reduced caloric intake and strenuous exercise. The last personal trainer said she’d never seen anything like it. I thought we were onto something with the homozygous C677t but the homocysteine variance is confusing.
Thanks for listening
Tracy Grant
Tracy, please find a Lymes Doc for your daughter. It sounds like chronic lymes.
Tracy, My son is hetero C677t and A1298C. He used to have chronic bronchitis. Chronic infections are caused by poor immune systems. He needs good vitamins and a good diet to build up the immune system and stop the infections from occurring. Get him tested for food allergies preferably for delayed reactions IgG and IgE antibodies (need this test from an ND; medical community I think only tests for IgE allergies). My son can gain up to 10 pounds after eating something he is allergic to. He could never lose any weight; just kept gaining all his life until at age 17 a ND had him tested for food allergies. My son is allergic to bakers yeast so he cannot even eat gluten free bread because of the yeast. If you don’t want to go back to the ND check and see if any online labs do the IgG testing.
Something else to know about food allergies — they can cause sleep apnea. My son was tested and it showed sleep apnea. The ND said it could be caused from food allergies and that is how it was decided to have him tested and he has lots of food allergies.
Another suggestion is to seek out a clinical Nutritionist. There is one online that I follow that writes lots of good articles. Her name is Christa Orecchio at thewholejourney.com
http://thewholejourney.com/differences-between-ige-and-igg-testing-for-allergies-and-sensitivities She has online classes at a reasonable price and probably would do a personal consult. Another one is Andrea Nakayama at http://www.replenishpdx.com
My family is now using food as medicine which I have learned how to do from her and other nutritionists. To find a clinical nutritionist, go to this website:
http://www.cncb.org/contactcncb.htm
Keep your eyes open for another online AutoImmune Summit that is free coming this May. The first one was last November 2014. It was excellent. That is how I gained a lot of very useful information. They had 28 different speakers all talking about different aspects of the immune system.
I am a healthy 66 year old woman who is homozygous C677T. My homocysteine levels had started to rise (18.8) so I started taking ALL the B vitamins daily, including Folate (Solgar 800 mcg) Just had my yearly physical and I am in excellent health. Homocysteine levels had decreased to 11.2 (normal range.) It is important to keep your weight in check (I am 5’7″ and weigh 130), as well as to stay very active. I walk over a mile each day for exercise and climb the two sets of stairs in my house at least 25 times a day. Eat well and take your vitamins!
Okay Susie, this is very interesting. My homocysteine in 7/2015 was 16.6. I was worried but seem to have a problem with the “proper” B vitamins. They give me a major headache amongst other things so I quit them. Have no idea what it is now. I particularly have a problem with Folate and have problems if I don’t get folic acid. Guess all the cells are filled up with folic acid (bad). I am 5’4″ and 123 lbs so weight is not a problem. I’m going to test the homocysteine soon again and try to get active–which I am not (67 years old) Thanks for your post.
You might need to avoid methylated B’s. Have you tried folinic acid (not to be confused with folic acid) and adenosyl- and/or hydroxy-B12? Methyl-B’s made me really nauseated, but I seem to handle these fine.
Hi Rachel, Yes I have Seeking Health Folinic Acid lozenge, also Seeking Health B-Minus (B12 & Folate Free), and Seeking Health Hydroo B12 lozenge. It’s been a long time since I took them, maybe I’ll just start with the folinic acid first and not do them all at once so I can see exactly where the problem lies. Thanks.
I have had no issues taking any of the B vitamins, and I currently take B1, B3, B6, B9 (folate), and B12. I also walk daily, drink plenty of water and take other vitamins. So far so good. I do know that many people have sensitivities to some of the B vitamins. Be sure to avoid products containing folic acid. Start walking daily until you can walk a mile easily. Good Luck!
Hello Tracy. I realize it has been five years since you wrote this post. How is your daughter doing? I hope she has found answers and is feeling better.
If she is still dealing and reeling: Has she been tested and treated for the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV; responsible for the mono, hypothyroidism, and low immunity)? Has she developed Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or an immune system imbalance (such as TH1/TH2 immune system helper cells imbalance or HPA axis dysregulation), and have these issues been addressed? Has she figured out the Massively related dietary and supplement aspect? (Depending on immune system dysregulation, certain otherwise innocuous antioxidants such as turmeric or even the polyphenols in green tea can cause inflammation and add to symptomology. She may consider an immunologist plus a nutritionist familiar with lectins and other pro-inflammatory foods effect on the thyroid, immune system, and EBV. She may want to try Dr. Ben Lynch’s Dirty Genes protocol for his book of the same name.
I would love to hear how she is doing, plus if there is anything she can share with the rest of us. Best to you both.
I would look in to Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. Its a genetic connective tissue disorder, I think there are 8 different types. My husband has it, his mother had it and were fairly certain our daughter has it. There is a good support group called Zebras EDS and there are support groups in Facebook. It sounds like she might have this.
Dr Ben,
My current Dr (county clinic ) did do a methelmalonic acid test and it came back 0.10.
That was a good number meaning dont have low B12. Though used to always feel better when did small supplementing (couldnt take RDA or would loose more weight and even more anxiety! ). Told her with MTHFR 677 homozyg for difference, wanted to know if needed to deal with homocysteine.
She said those test results also show homocystein is good level. Does methylmalonic acid results correlate to both HC and B12 ? (my B12 and folate results for serum are always around 950/28 ).
Thanks for info
mostly deal with low muscle,weight , blood pressure…
LynnD
Who should get tested for this? I have fibromyalgia. Is that illness a sign of this mutation?
Hello Dr Lynch, thank you for sharing this – would you mind sharing what levels you use for optimal Homocysteine and what you have based that range on?
Sarah –
I like to see homocysteine for adults around 7 to 8 micromoles/liter.
I base that on how I’ve seen people’s methylation labs and how they are feeling – including my own.
If lower than this, then I suspect too low of protein intake or upregulated CBS enzyme for various reasons. Too low is not good because there there is not enough homocysteine to recycle back into SAMe – which is supportive of methylation.
If higher than this, then I suspect some block in various pathways – BHMT, MTR/MTHFR, CBS, AHCY or faster utilization of SAMe (stress) or too high of protein intake.
I’d also consider kidney issues if older, diabetic or some history of higher creatinine levels or kidney disorders.
Hi Dr. Lynch,
I am a 52-year-old woman, and I have an EXTREMELY high homocysteine level of 231.8. That’s not a typo, it’s 231.8. So, I know I have hyper homocystinemia, to say the least. I was recently diagnosed with a cataract in my right eye and macular degeneration in my left eye, andI had a stroke when I was 35 years old.
I have so many questions, but I guess the first one is exactly what kind of specialist should I be going to for treatment of this disease? My primary care doctor is sending me to a hematologist, but that was at my insistence, because I thought that might be a good place to start.
Also, have you ever heard of anyone having a homocysteine level as high as what I have? I know there must be more people like me out there, I’ve just never met any!
Thank you very much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.
Brenda –
My first thought is to have the doctors check your kidneys.
‘Specialsts’ are going to ‘break’ your body systems apart – you need them integrated. You need to find a doctor who understands how the body works as a whole – not piece meal.
Going to a nephrologist or urologist likely won’t help much – it may short term but long term need to find the source of the problem.
I highly recommend finding a doctor from one of these organizations:
American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Orthomolecular Institute
American Academy of Environmental Medicine
Institute for Functional Medicine
American College for Advancement in Medicine
American Holistic Medical Association
I also would get on HomocysteX Plus along with a higher dose of TMG – such as 3 grams. You can get TMG on Amazon or your doctor.
I do recommend you lower your protein intake by quite a bit – and eat more healthy fat and avoid carbohydrates. You need to shift to a more ketogenic diet to reduce your homocysteine and it will do it quickly. If you are not diabetic, the ketogenic diet is quite safe. Do read the book I mentioned below and find a health professional who can teach you how to do it. You may get good results fast with it.
For testing:
– I would ask a good doctor to order:
— Organic acids test – urine
— Amino acids – plasma
— VAP Cholesterol panel
— RBC Fatty acids
— serum ferritin
— RBC Essential Elements and Toxic Elements
Read this:
http://amzn.to/1x8IaMq
and
http://amzn.to/1us5p3g
I would also get on Magnesium Plus – and take 2 a day – to assist with homocysteine elimination via active B6.
One in AM and one in PM.
I would also highly recommend Optimal Lipsosomal Glutathione to protect your eyes, kidneys, heart, lungs, etc – and to reduce oxidative stress. Start with 1 teaspoon in the evening say 20 minutes before dinner – away from food.
Hi Dr. Lynch,
Firstly, let me thank you for your comprehensive response to my question. I greatly appreciate the time that you took to write out all of your suggestions.
I definitely agree with you that the Drs. are not looking at me as a whole person, they seem to be very invested in chopping me up into little pieces; my brain, my heart etc…
I have tried throughout the years to be my own patient advocate with only spotty success. Doctors in general seem to be intimidated by how assertive I am for myself.
I have increased my ingestion of vegetables and green leafy vegetables in particular, quite a bit. As I sit here writing this, I’m drinking a green smoothie made out of spinach, parsley, mangoes,and apples.
I’m going to print out all of your suggestions, and show them to my primary care doctor this week. Thanks again for all your time.
Look at this homocysteinuria is a real disease with actual treatments that trained physicians can treat.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homocystinuria
Hi Dr.
I need your help. I am 37 years old female. I recently saw a Nathropatic Dr and she gave me a blood test. For the first time in my life i heard about homosustain. I did it at quest diagnostics the result was 10.0 the reference range was <10.4. It says in Range. The reference range doesn't say for example 4-8 is normal the only thing I got was that. But the naturopath dr scared me a lot. Tell me dr isn't this range normal for the equipment that quest used. As you said the rang can vary from lab to lab.
However, I found out some error as well for example my glucose level was 88 for one dr and 91 for another. My Sodium level was 134 out of rang for one dr and 135 in range for another one. And all these tests were done at the same time and sent to two doctors. Now I don't know what to believe. Yes in websites it's says 6-8 for homocysteine test but for quest10 was normal. Should i repeat the test? And why they don't have standards range?
Will you plz help me beacuse I'm getting crazy here.
2016 at 11:24 am # Reply
Hi Dr.
I need your help. I am 37 years old female. I recently saw a Nathropatic Dr and she gave me a blood test. For the first time in my life i heard about homosustain. I did it at quest diagnostics the result was 10.0 the reference range was <10.4. It says in Range. The reference range doesn't say for example 4-8 is normal the only thing I got was that. But the naturopath dr scared me a lot. Tell me dr isn't this range normal for the equipment that quest used. As you said the rang can vary from lab to lab.
However, I found out some error as well for example my glucose level was 88 for one dr and 91 for another. My Sodium level was 134 out of rang for one dr and 135 in range for another one. And all these tests were done at the same time and sent to two doctors. Now I don't know what to believe. Yes in websites it's says 6-8 for homocysteine test but for quest10 was normal. Should i repeat the test? And why they don't have standards range?
Will you plz help me beacuse I'm getting crazy here.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Kate – I hear your concern. Lab values look are a snapshot at one point in time and they change constantly because the body is always changing. We have to interpret labs in the context of your overall health. I suggest discussing these concerns with your doctor.
Dr. Lynch,
Just a couple more pieces of information; when the lab got the highly abnormal homocysteine level, they did re-run the test three times. I am on sublingual B-12, and a number of additional medications to control HBP.
I’m eating a TON of dark green, leafy veggies every day. My PCP also gives me a supplemental B12 shot every 2-3 months. (My B12 levels were normal on my labs taken in Oct of this year.)
Due to the influx of veggies, I have lost 50 lbs since August. I’m having significant muscle weakness in my legs, and it is almost impossible for me to walk up and down stairs.
Again, thanks for your time.
Your rapid weight loss and lack of protein intake isn’t healthy. You need a BALANCED diet. You are showing signs of nutrition deficiencies that are seen in developing countries.
And your green leafy shakes could put you at risk for hypervitaminosis K which can CAUSE clots.
I do not see how you can have an influence on how the lab treats the test!
Fasting should take away the risk of wrong food, should it not?
What do I do if I get feelings of tight chest. Some days I don’t get it but I have experienced tight chest feelings afte taking half dose of your optimal multivitamin powder each day last week. I have discontinued use. How can I foind out the cause?
Claire, Did you ever find out what your tight chest is? I have it and it progressed into the heart pounding and I had to lie down every time it did that. So, I wasn’t sure if it was the lungs or the heart for 6 months and when it progressed to the heart pounding then I figure it is the heart. But all around the chest feels tight and kinda hurts. I finally started eating bread again two weeks ago after 6 months of tight chest, and the pounding heart has gone away. (I never had this problem before I went Paleo). I still have tight chest somewhat So I figure there is something fortified in the bread that I need. Also, the other day I took a multivitamin with the B’s and folate (not folic acid) in it and my heart started racing again. I am curious if you found out what yours was.
Update: Now it is Oct 29, 2015 and I have no heart pounding or tight chest or hand and leg cramps since I have added back in raisin-cinnamon bread a few times a week. Good thing I am not celiac but the gluten can still damage my gut. I have looked at the bread label and it has B1, B2, B3, and B9 (in the form of folic acid). So I am playing around with these vitamins in the hope to discontinue the raisin-cinnamon bread. I don’t seem to be able to tolerate the 5-MTHF (B9 folate). Only have one C677T variant but lots of other potentially bad snps. Right now I am just trying to get the above vitamins to work instead of eating bread.
Michele, I’m curious if you have tried natural yeast bread (sourdough WITHOUT any added commercial yeast)? My current research is leading me to believe that Paleo is NOT for everyone and wheat is not the demon that it is made out to be. It’s only that way because it is no longer pre-digested during a long fermentation process. I am NOT a doctor or health professional. Just a mother who has been researching and trying to help my children and their health issues. I only recently found out about the MTHFR factor and I find it interesting that b vitamin deficiencies occur often in people consuming a Gluten free or Grain Free diet. Check out the research that http://www.thebreadgeek.com has done on Natural yeast bread vs commercial bread
Lori, It ended up being something to do with the B vitamins and glutathione. Now bread has B1, B2,B3, and B9 (folic acid–the wrong kind of folate). So my daughter was having the same problems and more (including brain seizures) and I sent her to a health practitioner and the following helped her so I bought the same and this has helped me: Neuro Logix Glutathione Plus Topical Cream which we put 1 pump over our liver AND Seeking Health B-Minus capsules. You can find the Glutathione Cream on Amazon and Ben Lynch has the B-Minus. Now I don’t have to eat the bread.
[…] Measure homocysteine levels – properly! […]
Dr. Ben
I was diagnosed 6 years ago with a rare immune disorder called autoimmune hepatitis so basically autoimmune liver disease of unknown cause. This year i recently found out i also have hasimotos thyroiditis. I am suffering from a ferritin of 16 with normal iron and a progesterone level of less than .10 and am 30 years old. I am hetero for C677t and A1298C. I am looking for a physician to treat mthfr and digestive and liver congestion along with healing gut but my insurance does not cover ND practitioners and i am unable to continue paying so much out of pocket for office visits. I cannot find anyone who treats these conditions other than naturopathic physicians…any recommendations? I have supplements but just need the direction and dosages figured out and advice. I live in the portland oregon area. Any advice would be helpful!!! I feel like im falling apart and im far too young to let these health issues rule my life. I am now worried for my 3 year old daughter and have slowly begun replacing items in my home with your suggested protocol items for the health of my entire family.
Hi Tasha,
I completely hear you that it can be tough to find the right doctor.
There are a couple physicians in Oregon in the Physician Directory here . Not sure how close to Portland they are, but maybe reaching out to them could be a good start. One of them might be able to point you in the right direction.
Wishing you the best!
Diagnosed w one mutation at c677t started taking the suggested supplements and the end of my tongue turned beet red and hurt. Anyone ever experience this and what causes it? Thanks
Dr Ben,
I am 36 yrd old and have had 9 miscarriages since 2012. I learned that I inherited from my dad a balanced translocation. but even after doinf ivf pgd I still lose the pregnancy with “normal embryos”.I beg for the RPL tests knowing there was more to it. well, I have mthfr heterozygous c677t. but my homocysteine is normal (7,8).I am gearing soon to another ivf cycle. do you think I should push to have my doc prescribed me lovenox (enoxaparin sodium) shots? I already take neevo dha, baby aspirin and folgard. thanks in advance. ANNE.
Hello,
I am hetero for C677t and A1298C and my fasting homocysteine level is 11. Is that considered high or normal?
My husband is also hetero for C677t and A1298C. I feel like I need to assume and treat my son as if he has the snips as well. He is 9 yrs old – do you recommend any supplements or avoidance for kids differently than adults?
Thank you!
Kristin – The normal/high range varies a little bit from lab to lab. It should say on your lab report. This is probably on the upper end of normal. This has to be considered in the entirety of your other lab results and medical history.
If you and your husband are compound heterozygous, then the chances are high that your 9 yr. old has one or more MTHFR mutations. You should consider having him tested for MTHFR. This knowledge will allow you to understand your son’s susceptibilities.
One example is Nitrous Oxide’s effect on individuals with MTHFR mutations: https://mthfr.net/nitrous-oxide-mthfr-trouble/2015/02/06/.
Dr. Ben’s own story with MTHFR could give you some insight on what this means for you and your family: https://mthfr.net/dr-lynch-family-myriad-of-mthfr-mutations/2012/02/05/.
Hope this helps. Please keep us updated!
Dr. Aron
Hi Dr. Ben,
please pay attention to my question.
while I was looking for information on the cycle of homocysteine, I’ve found
out your site, and I must say there are very effective and well-informed articles on this area of medicine, and I congratulate you on it!
First I have to understand if I am undermethylated or overmethylated, I must also get tested for the MTHFR mutation, I only know that three years ago my homocysteine level was 17. Many doctors and you as well, like to see homocysteine for adults around 7 to 8 micromoles/liter.
IF I COULD CONVERT HOMOCYSTEINE EXCESS VIA THE TRANSULFURATION PATHWAY I MIGHT LOWER HOMOCYSTEINE LEVELS AND SUPPORT DETOXIFICATION AT THE SAME TIME, BY RAISING GLUTATHIONE AND METALLOTHIONEIN, IS IT RIGHT?
At this address:
http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/commentary-on-nutritional-treatment-of-mental-disorders/
there is a wonderful Commentary on Nutritional Treatment of Mental Disorders by Dr. William Walsh.
It contains extracts about methylation, metallothionein, heavy metals poisoning, imbalances in metabolism of metals, along with his advices of nutritional treatment to rebalance them.
IT IS THE RESULT OF MANY RESEARCHES CARRIED OUT FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS BY CARL PFEIFFER, MD, PHD OF PRINCETON, NJ, WHO WAS A PIONEER IN THIS FIELD, AND BY HIS ASSISTANT DR. WALSH. THEY’VE TREATED MORE THAN 20,000 CASES, SO THEY HAVE SOME EXPERIENCE…
About SAM cycle Dr. William Walsh says:
“SOME PRACTITIONERS LIKE TO TINKER WITH THE SAM CYCLE TO PROMOTE CONVERSION OF HOMOCYSTEINE TO METHIONINE, SUPPLEMENTING WITH METHYLFOLATE OR METHYLCOBALAMIN, BUT THIS CAN DEPLETE THE CYSTATHIONE PATHWAY AND RESULT IN DEFICIENCIES OF GLUTATHIONE, CYSTEINE, ETC.
UNDERMETHYLATED ADULTS TYPICALLY REQUIRE 2,000 – 3,000 MG/DAY OF METHIONINE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS TO SEE GOOD RESULTS. ALSO, AUGMENTING NUTRIENTS SUCH AS CALCIUM, MAGNESIUM, B-6, AND ZINC ARE ESSENTIAL.
TMG IS A GREAT WAY TO TREAT INDIVIDUALS WITH DANGEROUSLY HIGH HOMOCYSTEINE LEVELS. TMG can be very useful in augmenting methionine therapy along with B-6/P-5-P , serine, etc.
THE CHALLENGE IS TO SUPPLY ENOUGH METHYL GROUPS TO HELP THE PATIENT, WITHOUT CREATING DANGEROUSLY HIGH LEVELS OF HOMOCYSTEINE. Use of TMG is an “insurance policy” against this happening.
A quick way to test for need for methylation therapy is to carry out a cautious trial of SAMe. Within a week or two you should have your answer. If a patient clearly is improving on the SAMs (which is frightfully expensive)….. you can get usually the same benefits (albeit more slowly) using methionine plus calcium, magnesium, and B-6. This should be side-effect free unless (a) the methylation is begun too abruptly or (b) the patient has a rare genetic enzyme disorder which disrupts the SAM cycle.
WE’VE FOUND THAT DIRECT METHYLATION IS USUALLY MORE SUCCESSFUL THAN TINKERING WITH THE SAM CYCLE. THE PRIMARY WAY HUMANS RECEIVE MOST OF THEIR METHYL GROUPS IS FROM DIETARY METHIONINE. It’s often hard to improve on Mother Nature.”
I am particularly concerned about the b) issue: unless the patient has a rare genetic enzyme disorder which disrupts the SAM cycle. AND IF HE WAS REFERRING EXACTLY TO THE MTHFR MUTATIONS?
I have yet to understand whether having one or more MTHFR mutations means to be undermethylated or overmethylated.
IN YOUR OPINION, HOW DOES A DOCTOR HAVE TO ADDRESS AN HETEROZYGOUS MTHFR MUTATION, FOR EXAMPLE?
IT MAY MEANS THAT THE MTHFR ENZYME IS REDUCED BY ABOUT 50% IN FUNCTION, THEN THE METHYLATION CYCLE IS WEAKENED AND A PERSON IS UNDERMETHYLATED?
I should like to thank in advance you, I hope you will answer me.
Best Regards
Hi, I know I am a bit late to the conversation, but I’m hoping someone can help… I am in the UK and have just looked for where to test homocysteine levels (it is not as simple as just going to your GP and requesting it here, you’d get nowhere…
Anyway, this is what they advise at Biolab – which obviously goes against what is taught here…….
Homocysteine is not a component of food or nutritional supplements, so the patient should not fast prior to the test and may continue taking any nutritional supplements as normal. The blood sample of choice should be taken at midday, four hours after a protein-containing breakfast, so as to ensure an adequate methionine challenge (equivalent to about 0.5 gm of methionine).
Any thoughts? Or any advice?
Thank you
Dear Dr. Lynch,
Thank you so much for this site and your Seeking Health products!! My husband and I are both heterozygous c677 and a1298. We recently lost a pregnancy due to a neural tube defect. I’m trying to get us properly methylated before trying again. We just got our labs back, My levels: folate-37.8, B12-1104, homocysteine-6.9. I’ve been taking optimal multi plus extra 1200 MCG methylfolate and 1000 MCG B12. My husbands levels: folate-15.8, B12-384, homocysteine-19.8. He is taking Thorne multi with 800 MCG methylfolate and 1000 mcg B12. I want to know what we need to do to get his homocysteine level down (more methylfolate and b12?) and are my levels of folate and b12 OK even though they are elevated (since I’m trying to over power my system to prevent NTD)?
Dear Dr. Lynch:
I have had a handful of MTHFR tests from Quest that came back negative even though the patients seem to clinically fit the profile and had the following test results, roughly speaking: normal levels of B12 & Folic Acid, and normal MMA with high Homocysteine. None of the leves were so dramatic that I can remember them, but it made me wonder if the MTHFR tests have a fail rate and should be re-sent? I read above that if they are not fasting, then the homocysteine level might be suspect, so that is something I did not know, but have you ever found that the MTHFR test result was wrong? Perhaps there are more than the two more common mutations?
Thanks,
CB
Carol – This is an interesting question. I haven’t personally heard of or seen MTHFR testing inaccuracies. It might be the case that you might want to add more possibilities to your D/Dx. Let me do some digging and will get back to you with what I can find. Have you taken any training through SeekingHealth.org? As a clinician, this would be a great resource for you.
Dear Dr. Aron:
I also understand that kidney disease can contribute to the elevation of homocysteine. Do you have any idea why? Also, going back over my first question, it is clear that the gene tests only the most common mutations and may be missing other less common ones. No, I have not taken any training through your website.
Thank you for keeping up this incredibly useful website! I have a question regarding MTHFR mutation and elevated homocysteine. I am compound heterozygous for MTHFR, taking Thorne supplements (1/3 of the recommended dose as I cannot tolerate more) with active forms of B6, B9 and B12. My booldwork shows that both my folate and B12 is above the norm, however, that haven’t helped bringing down my homocystein level – it is above 9, the most recent test shows even 10. I have also low levels of D vitamin (I am taking it now) and lower iron levels. I am also taking falxeed oil and coenzyme Q10.
I am worried because I have lost 2 pregnancies in the last 2 years and in the coutry I live I haven’t been able to find any doctor who has a clue about MTHFR. All they say is that about 30% of people have this mutation and it is not connected with my recurrent miscarriages.
Can D vitamin and iron deficiency affect my methylation and thus also impair breaking down homocysteine?
Hi Dr.
I need your help. I am 37 years old female. I recently saw a Nathropatic Dr and she gave me a blood test. For the first time in my life i heard about homosustain. I did it at quest diagnostics the result was 10.0 the reference range was <10.4. It says in Range. The reference range doesn't say for example 4-8 is normal the only thing I got was that. But the naturopath dr scared me a lot. Tell me dr isn't this range normal for the equipment that quest used. As you said the rang can vary from lab to lab.
However, I found out some error as well for example my glucose level was 88 for one dr and 91 for another. My Sodium level was 134 out of rang for one dr and 135 in range for another one. And all these tests were done at the same time and sent to two doctors. Now I don't know what to believe. Yes in websites it's says 6-8 for homocysteine test but for quest10 was normal. Should i repeat the test? And why they don't have standards range?
Will you plz help me beacuse I'm getting crazy here.
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Kate, my homocysteine is 16.6 and I see a lot of gene problems that say I would probably have high homocysteine and that and other genetic snps say I would have high cholesterol also, sometimes related to this homocysteine genetic thing. Both are true so far at age 66 (high homocysteine and high cholesterol). If my homocysteine was 10 I would be really happy (easier to get down closer to 7). I am going to try taking TMG which is supposed to lower homocysteine and am still studying what I can do to adjust these genetic snps, Sounds like you are worrying a little too much. Some people I have read about have homocysteine of over 200!
Dr. Aron
Thanks for answering me but you didn’t tell me which number is normal?
My level for homocysteine was 10.0 and for quest diagnostic it was normal? While my ND told me that I have genetic problem.
But I want to know more. Therefore, what tests I suggests me to do.
Please help me
Hi Michel
Tnx for replying to me. Yes I am worrying about the number cause what I’ve read in the Google freaks me out. My dad died of a heart attack at the age of 50. Yes he was a heavy smoker and drinker and never went to a doctor. His both brothers had heart attacks too but in little older ages the scond uncle also was a heavy smoker too. But younger brother was better than both brothers. But they both are alive beacuse they went to dr. However, thier situation scared me it makes me think what they all had this genetic mutations edit without knowing it. And what if I have it too. I asked my Nathroparhic Dr. that what if I have the gene mutation? She said she doesn’t know yet. Therefore, I asked her to order a genetic test.
Michel the thing that make me worried is that unlike my father and his brother I never drank and smoked. I watch what I eat. My cholesterol and blood presure are normal. Only my A1c was 5.7. So I don’t understand why the homocysteine was 10.0.
Dr. Lynch
You might add to your list that taking benzodiazepines will reduce homocysteine in blood tests!
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19409441
I have always taken a benzo before visiting my doctor because of the severe anxiety I have. My test always came back in the higher range. It might be the benzo that is causing it in range?
I find it very interesting that benzo’s can do such regulation of homocysteine and other nutritions when we know that benzodiazepine receptors only works in the brain.
Thank you 😉 Noted!
Hi Dr. Lynch
I hope you read my message and listened to my concerns,
I need your help. I am 37 years old female. I recently saw a Nathropatic Dr and she gave me a blood test. For the first time in my life i heard about homosustain. I did it at quest diagnostics the result was 10.0 the reference range was <10.4. It says in Range. The reference range doesn't say for example 4-8 is normal the only thing I got was that. But the naturopath dr scared me a lot. Tell me dr isn't this range normal for the equipment that quest used. As you said the rang can vary from lab to lab.
However, I found out some error as well for example my glucose level was 88 for one dr and 91 for another. My Sodium level was 134 out of rang for one dr and 135 in range for another one. And all these tests were done at the same time and sent to two doctors. Now I don't know what to believe. Yes in websites it's says 6-8 for homocysteine test but for quest10 was normal. Should i repeat the test? And why they don't have standards range?
Will you plz help me beacuse I'm getting crazy here.
In your opinion what constitutes number a high-methionine food? How much should a person have daily of these foods ?
I am new to all of this. Someone has advised that i get my self checked for MTHFR and i have read that it’s easiest to have homocysteine levels checked. Will the NHS do this if i ask? If not, are there any home tests which are recommended? I see a wide range of tests/costs from £47 to £150 and they all involve sending a sample to their lab through the post, but on some test descriptions i have seen this – ….”whereby a few drops of blood from a pin-prick are dropped onto a card and the membrane within the card then separates the plasma from the blood cells….” Are these tests ok? Thank you
I have C677T homozygous and a CBS mutation. I have had homocysteine levels of 25, 45 and my last one was 50. I am working with an ND and am on a basic MTHFR protocol, yet the numbers are still up. My ND suggested I look into further genetic testing. Are there other gene mutations I should be looking for?
Dee,
I’d also be looking at heavy metals and oxidative stress – along with yeast overgrowth. Consider also using Betaine – a few grams a day spread out throughout the day may be useful and vitamin B6 as pyridoxal 5 phosphate 50 mg – but doses need to be discussed with your doctor.
SNPs are only part of the picture – not all.
May need to evaluate how much protein you are eating as well. A ketogenic diet may also be useful.
I am currently learning all I can about this mutation. Still really confused on what I should do and not do. I had a stoke with deficits 6 years ago at 31yr. Currently, diagnosed with narcolepsy (no family history). I am completely drained and wiped out no matter what I do or take, I don’t get out of the bed and live a normal life. I’m on 400 mg of modafinil, baby aspirin, and metanx twice a day. Dec. Homocysteine was 48 and vitamin b low but still within range, july Homocysteine 61!!!! And b12 340…tested and I’m homozygous for C677T…started b12 shots and they made me so sick. What is my next step, what specialist can I see? What meds should I take? What other blood work should be taken and how often to monitor? Desperate to feel better!chrissy
Google Gail Clayton. She can help you definitely.
Narcolepsy? Did you by any chance get a Gardasil shot around the same time?
i have recently been diagnosed with mthfr C677T hetero – I also have a CBS, MTR and MTRR issue. what prompted me to see a dr was unexplained weight gain, swelling in my hands, feet and face. I’ve seen a functional medicine dr who has diagnosed me and is currently treating me with fish oil (for inflammation – my crp is 6.6 and has been as high as 8.8) – she also has prescribed B12 and methylfolate injections twice a week. I have started those but am still having the occasional swelling. can you answer why this is happening? I see you recommend combating the inflammation prior to methylation – do I need to go back and work on that first? thank you for your help!
I figured out why my homocysteine was so low, despite me being C667T homozygous, CBS homozygous mutation. It’s amazing when bad mutations are not so bad.
I am 59 and homozygous for C677T. I have generally very good health. Recently I had my Homosycetine checked and was at 8. I was going back through my records and my blood platelets have been high for at least 3 years. 399 on average. I am over weight despite the fact that i eat only 900-1400 calories daily andcexercise 1-2 hours daily. I have never been able to lose weight unless i take a stimulant like ephedra or phentermine. I need help figuring out how to lose weight and build my blood so i am no longer anemic.
hello, I am homozygous for c677t mutation. I had blood clots in my early twenties when I was on birth control and 20 years later I had blood clots again when I was 42. I am supplementing with B12 and folate but my doctor also has me on warfarin do you think I can get off of the warfarin and just take B12 and folate supplements?. I am otherwise a healthy 46 year old woman. I did take Lovenox injections during my pregnancy at age 36 I have beautiful twin daughters that are now 9 years old neither one of them are homozygous for this mutation.
General MD ordered homocysteine level blood test. It wasn’t fasting. Came back normal. Limited doctor and lab options here, advice? Any reason for concern that “normal” isn’t normal due to not fasting. ???
I would like to have my homcysteine levels checked. I have to take benadryl every night, or I end up with terrible sneezing, hives, watery and itching eyes and nose. Do I need to stop the benadryl so many days before having the homocysteine levels checked?
HI I am new to this. I just found out through genevia testing my homocycteine level is 125. I have pcos, hashimotos, celiac’s disease, and I have histamine intolerance I’m getting a toxin and mthfr test taken on moday. I have severe tmj and my pain is very bad because of bad treatment so I’m currently looking for a tmj specialist to fix it. My cortisole and adrenal function is low, my vitamins are all deficient we eat gfree and dairy free and I try to be as chemical free as possible, because of my histamine issues I react to a lot of supplements. They have me on a liquid folate.I’m doing OK on that. I also have parasites. I’m 35 I have 3 young kids and I’m very scared. My kids also have symptoms like mine I’m scared for them as well. I had two of them tested for mthfr it was negative. Just looking for guidance and advice on what to do from here .I’m so scared i have been having panic attackes. I have so much inflammation in my body i cant see or think straight.I just want to get better.thankyou so much
Life Extension’s Homocysteine Resist looks to be a much better product at a much better price.
Hi Ron –
The Homocysteine Resist is definitely a potent formulation. It works well for supporting the long route of methylation and the CBS gene. The big hole is that if the long route of methylation is blocked – and it easily is – then it won’t work very well. The TMG bypasses this block which is why I prefer HomocysteX Plus – plus I formulated it 😉
I do not like the vitamin B2 they use – it’s not riboflavin-5-phosphate -which is quite expensive to use but way better. They use the good B6 form. The vitamin B12 I wonder what they use. We use a fermented non solvent based B12 which is much cleaner and also more expensive.
The supplement industry is very dirty so it’s hard to find pure ingredients. Life Extension is a great company. Seeking Health is next level in terms of clean nutrients and most effective forms.
vs HomocysteX Plus
But it doesn’t have the TMG