One of the things that fascinates me about naturopathic medicine is its ability to put some of the most minute pieces of medical knowledge in the context of whole-body health and wellness. As new research expands our scientific understanding of the way the body works, naturopathic medicine is able to quickly incorporate that knowledge in our ever-growing awareness of the body as a holistic system.

That is precisely what's been occurring with research into the MTHFR gene (and genomics in general) over the years. As researchers learn more and more about this gene, they're beginning to understand the influences it has on a great number of bodily functions and processes. Peeking into how this gene works shows just how effective the holistic approaches of naturopathic medicine are.

One Enzyme, Endless Functionality

MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, an enzyme that is key to many of the body's processes and functions. One of the enzyme's functions is assisting in the creation of the amino acid derivative S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe). This enzyme is fundamental to many key proteins that perform a variety of essential functions throughout the body. When there isn't an abundant supply of properly-constructed SAMe, a variety of health problems can occur.

The MTHFR enzyme also plays a role in activating or suppressing certain genes—what is often referred to as turning genes "on" and "off"—and is used inside your body's cells for other processes, too. Its vital role at such a basic level of your body's functions means a deficiency of the MTHFR enzyme can cause significant medical issues. Mutations to the MTHFR gene, which regulates the production of the MTHFR enzyme, can cause disorders that begin at birth and disorders and symptoms that appear later in life.

As we learn more about MTHFR mutations, we're beginning to understand how different mutations lead to symptoms and disorders of different severity. The more significant mutations to the MTHFR gene can cause the development of the brain and/or spinal cord to go awry. Research also suggests that mutations to this gene can increase your risk for heart disease, blood clots, high blood pressure, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

Treating Suspected MTHFR Mutations

While there are no true cures for suspected MTHFR mutations, such as gene therapy, many of the symptoms and problems caused by these mutations can be treated. Nutrition and lifestyle changes, vitamins and supplements, and other well-researched approaches from mainstream Western medicine and naturopathy can be used to address many of the risks and quality-of-life issues that MTHFR mutations can cause. Even for seemingly simple quality-of-life issues, it is always best to treat symptoms and their underlying causes under the guidance of a medical professional; some people suffering from MTHFR have been known to make their symptoms worse in attempts to correct them.

If you suspect you have a problem with MTHFR, testing for a mutation to confirm a diagnosis and add further insights for you and your physician to use in developing a holistic treatment plan. Testing is very easy, painless, and affordable, and will give you a firm understanding of why you are experiencing certain symptoms and how to help your body compensate. By incorporating the full range of knowledge when it comes to your genes and your body's overall health, you'll be given more effective treatment options that can greatly improve your health, wellness, and outlook on life.