Methylation is a vital biochemical process that occurs in every cell and organ of the body. It involves transferring a methyl group (a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms) from one molecule to another. Although it may sound technical, methylation is fundamental to your health and wellbeing.
Why Methylation Matters
This process underpins many critical functions, including:
- Energy production
- Inflammation control and immune function (including autoimmunity)
- Detoxification and the production of glutathione (the body’s master antioxidant)
- Neurotransmitter synthesis (which influences mood and cognition)
- Hormone metabolism
- Histamine clearance
- Cardiovascular health and homocysteine regulation
- Nerve health and myelination
- DNA/RNA synthesis and cell division
- Aging and longevity
If methylation is out of balance, either underactive or overactive, it can contribute to a wide range of health issues.
Genes and Methylation: What’s the Link?
Methylation relies on enzymes such as MTHFR, COMT, and CBS, which keep this cycle running efficiently. The activity of these enzymes is strongly influenced by your genetic blueprint, specifically single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) – small variations in your DNA that can impact enzyme function.
Examples:
- MTHFR and folate metabolism:
If you carry a common MTHFR SNP, your body may struggle to convert synthetic folic acid into the active form of folate. This can result in:
- A greater need for natural folate (from foods like leafy greens, legumes, and liver)
- A need to avoid folic acid in supplements and fortified foods
- A higher risk of folate deficiency, which is linked to fatigue, poor detoxification, and mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety
- COMT and stress resilience:
The COMT enzyme breaks down neurotransmitters such as dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. If you have a slow COMT variant, you may clear these stress hormones more slowly, leading to:
- Increased sensitivity to stress and stimulants (like caffeine)
- Tendency toward anxiety, insomnia, or burnout
- A need for tailored support to manage stress and support healthy neurotransmitter balance
These are just two examples of how your genetics can affect methylation and how personalised nutrition and lifestyle strategies can make a profound difference.
Beyond Genetics: What Else Impacts Methylation?
While genetics play a foundational role, methylation is also influenced by:
- Diet and nutrient status
- Digestive health and microbiome balance
- Stress (emotional and physical)
- Sleep quality
- Breathing patterns
- Environmental toxins
- Alcohol, medications, and smoking
- Food sensitivities and chronic infections
Even with a healthy diet, methylation may be compromised if these factors are not addressed or if your nutrient needs are higher due to genetic variations.
Health Conditions Linked to Methylation Issues
When methylation isn’t functioning properly, it can contribute to a wide range of health issues, including:
- Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder
- ADHD, OCD, addiction
- Infertility and recurrent miscarriage
- Fatigue and low energy
- Migraines and headaches
- Allergies, chemical sensitivities, high histamine
- Impaired detoxification
- Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, autism
- Nerve pain and neuropathy
- Diabetes and blood sugar issues
- Autoimmune disorders and immune dysfunction
- Cancer risk
- Accelerated aging
Functional Testing: Taking the Guesswork Out
If you suspect methylation imbalances may be affecting your health, testing is essential. One of the most insightful tools I use in clinic is a DNA test, which identifies key SNPs that impact your methylation pathways. This information allows us to design a personalised nutrition and lifestyle plan, tailored to your genetic profile.
Your genes are not your destiny. Thanks to the science of epigenetics, we now know that gene expression can be influenced by your daily choices. With the right support, you can improve how your body functions—down to the cellular level.
Want Personalised Support?
If you’d like to explore your methylation pathways and optimise your health with precision, I’d love to work with you. Consultations are available online or in person, and DNA testing can be arranged if appropriate.
👉 Book your consultation here or for more about DNA testing click here.
