The MTHFR Gene: What This Means for Your Health

You may have heard of the MTHFR gene floating around in wellness circles or perhaps from a naturopath, a podcast, or even TikTok. But what exactly is it? And what does it mean for your health if you have a variation (or two) in this gene?

Let’s break it down in everyday terms.

First, What Does the MTHFR Gene Do?

The MTHFR gene gives your body the instructions to make an enzyme called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (yep, it’s a mouthful). This enzyme plays a vital role in a process called methylation.

Think of methylation as your body’s "on/off switch" for loads of essential functions, like:

• Detoxing chemicals and heavy metals

• Making neurotransmitters (like serotonin, dopamine, and melatonin)

• Repairing DNA

• Processing hormones

• Supporting energy and mood

• Regulating inflammation

If methylation isn’t working properly, your body can’t do these jobs as efficiently.

What Happens When You Have an MTHFR Mutation?

We all have two copies of the MTHFR gene — one from mum, one from dad. Some people have mutations (also called variants or SNPs) that make the MTHFR enzyme less effective.

The two most researched variants are:

• C677T

• A1298C

You can inherit one or two copies of these. If you have two copies of the C677T variant (homozygous), methylation may be significantly reduced — sometimes up to 70% less efficient.

What Does This Mean for Your Health?

Having an MTHFR mutation doesn’t mean you’re doomed, but it can make your body more sensitive to certain stressors. People with these gene variants often notice patterns like:

Mental Health Challenges

• Anxiety, depression, brain fog, or mood swings

• Poor stress tolerance

• Trouble falling or staying asleep

Detox and Liver Function Issues

• Struggle to clear alcohol, chemicals, or medication

• Feel worse on the pill or hormone therapies

• React strongly to perfumes or cleaning products

Pregnancy & Fertility

• Higher risk of miscarriage or birth defects (especially if folic acid is used instead of folate)

• Difficulty conceiving without knowing why

Inflammation & Immune Problems

• Prone to histamine intolerance or food sensitivities

• Autoimmune conditions or lingering post-viral symptoms

• Trouble bouncing back from illness

Why Folate (Not Folic Acid) Matters for MTHFR

If you have an MTHFR mutation, your body can’t convert folic acid (the synthetic version of B9) into its active form, methylfolate — at least not very well.

That means taking standard folic acid (like in most multivitamins or pregnancy supplements) might do more harm than good. It can build up in your system unmetabolised, potentially interfering with your methylation cycle even more.

Instead, look for methylated folate (5-MTHF) or activated B-complex vitamins. These forms bypass the blocked pathway and support your body directly.

Should You Get Tested for MTHFR?

If you’ve had long-term health issues with no clear cause, or things like:

• Recurrent miscarriage

• Anxiety/depression that doesn’t respond to medication

• Chronic fatigue

• Skin conditions that flare with stress

• Strong reactions to medications or supplements

… it may be worth exploring your genetic makeup.

You can order at-home genetic tests that include MTHFR status (check out the one we recommend here), or ask your GP or integrative practitioner for a blood test. It’s a simple cheek swab or blood sample.

Can You “Fix” an MTHFR Mutation?

You can’t change your genes — but you can support how they express.

Living with an MTHFR mutation means you might need more targeted nutrients and lifestyle support than the average person. Key areas to focus on:

Nutrition

• Eat whole foods rich in natural folate (dark leafy greens, avocado, lentils)

• Avoid folic acid in processed foods and standard supplements

• Support liver detox with cruciferous veggies (broccoli, Brussels sprouts)

Supplement Smart

• Consider methylated B12 and folate

• Magnesium and zinc may help with anxiety and detox

• Avoid synthetic additives, colours, and preservatives

Lifestyle & Environment

• Prioritise rest and sleep

• Reduce toxin exposure at home (air fresheners, mould, plastics)

• Choose filtered water and non-toxic personal care

A Quick Word on Mould

People with MTHFR mutations can be more sensitive to environmental toxins including mould. If you’ve ever felt "off" in certain buildings, get frequent sinus or skin issues, or your symptoms flare after rain or humidity, mould might be worth exploring.

Having an MTHFR mutation doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means your body needs more support in certain areas and that’s something you can work with.

Understanding your genetics is like reading your body’s manual. And when you know what your body needs, you can feel more energised, more resilient, and more in control of your health.