Some people have genetic variations that increase their risk of experiencing physical and mental health symptoms. Corner Canyon Health Centers uses genetic testing and other comprehensive screening tools to accurately diagnose and treat clients.
The MTHFR genetic mutations are some we see frequently. In the US approximately 30% of the population has some impairment of one or both of these genes, typically in the 20-30% range. At Corner Canyon Health Centers genetic testing shows that 55% of our clients have some level of impairment on the MTHFR genes. We frequently see clients with higher levels of impairment, up to 70-80%, and a total of 70-80% on both genes.
Mutations within a gene are called variants. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “The MTHFR gene provides instructions for your body to make the MTHFR protein, which helps your body process folate. Your body needs folate to make DNA and modify proteins.” MTHFR gene variants may cause the body to react in unexpected ways and interfere with its ability to process folate.
DNA genetic testing is the only way to determine if someone has an MTHFR gene mutation. The Pharmacogenetic DNA test (PGX) is standard at Corner Canyon Health Centers. It’s a simple cheek swab sample that can determine if clients have one or both of the most common MTHFR gene variants. The gene variants may significantly affect a person’s mental and physical health, depending on the severity of the deficit and the length of time it’s untreated.
Corner Canyon Health Centers treats the whole person and uses genetic testing and other tools to identify potential biological factors affecting mental health. We have developed a unique approach to treatment, ensuring we meet the needs and preferences of each client.
Our individualized holistic care provides clients with the resources they need to address underlying issues affecting their physical and mental health. Researchers have found connections between MTHFR variants and these disorders. However, the exact nature of their relationship is unclear. More research is necessary to reach a deeper understanding of how these gene variants impact mental health.
Two variants for the MTHFR gene are known to potentially impact mental and physical health. Individuals with both variants have a higher risk of developing mental health issues compared to individuals with only one gene mutation, and the degree of impairment is also a significant factor. Individuals with one or both gene mutations may experience mental health symptoms without meeting the criteria for specific disorders. Gene variants may also affect behaviors, thoughts, and moods. Some studies indicate MTHFR gene variations can contribute to the following mental health disorders:
MTHFR gene variants that impact physical health include:
MTHFR gene variations increase the risk of a person experiencing the following:
The effect of the genetic variants is to reduce the ability of the person to process and benefit from folic acid in their diet. The primary treatment intervention for the MTHFR genetic variant is a food supplement, L-Methyl-Folate.
Methylation makes the folate easier to digest and utilize, and the younger a person is when the impairment begins to be treated, the less likely there is for the development of mental and physical problems. There are both over the counter versions of L-Methyl-Folate as well as prescription ones. Corner Canyon adjusts each client’s dose to meet their level of impairment.
Nutrition is an essential part of healing from mental health disorders. According to Frontiers in Nutrition, “The antioxidant system, which has been implicated in the development of psychiatric disorders, is relevant . . . and its proper functioning depends on the presence of nutrients in food.”
Folate levels affected by MTHFR gene variants influence the antioxidant system. Our team guides clients through learning to build healthier routines and behaviors surrounding food and nutrition to reduce the risk of side effects related to their condition. The healthy diet at Corner Canyon provides folate naturally, since it is high in the kinds of foods that contain folate like leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables.
If you or a loved one are looking for a compassionate space to address mental health issues, reach out to our Admissions team now at Corner Canyon Health Centers.
We are specifically formulated to offer personalized therapeutic interventions to adult individuals with mental health disorders.
We provide a comprehensive Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) that offers clients the opportunity to attend group therapy sessions three to five times a week.
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