Methylation is an example of epigenetics, and it was one of the earliest epigenetic modifications found in humans. DNA methylation plays an essential role in many common human diseases.
What is Methylation?
Simply put, methylation is a biochemical reaction that occurs in the body. It occurs when carbon and hydrogen atoms are transferred from one substance to another.
This is how your body regulates many of the processes it does daily, including:
- DNA production
- Detoxification
- Metabolism
- Production of neurotransmitters
- Histamine production
- Eye health
- Liver health
- Reproductive system
- Hormone balance
Your body needs methylation to keep all its processes running as they should. The process of methylation essentially keeps all the correct switches turned on or off in the body.
What is DNA Methylation?
DNA methylation occurs when a methyl group transfers onto your DNA. This process turns a gene on or off.
The methyl groups tell your body when it should or shouldn't read specific genes. For example, your body prevents cancer by telling a tumour forming gene to stay switched off.
A recent study suggests that your methylated DNA reduces as you age. This may be why you are more susceptible to disease as you get older.
What Can You Do For Methylation Support?
One of the main contributing factors to your body's ability to methylate correctly is your diet.
Certain nutrients are crucial for methylation; these are:
- Folate
- Vitamins B12 & B6
- Methionine
- Choline
- Polyphenols
The presence of folate is particularly important to your ability to methylate; the body converts it to its active form 5-MTHF.
Many of the nutrients required for the methylation process come from vegetables, especially dark, leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach and broccoli.
You'll find B vitamins in meat, dairy and seafood products. Taking supplements for B vitamins can help ensure you get healthy quantities (especially if you're vegetarian or vegan).
Consuming excessive alcohol may contribute to poor methylation ability.
How To Find Out If You Have a Healthy Methylation Process
There are genetic tests available to help you find out about your body's methylation capabilities. Although the results of these tests can be complex to interpret, they can be invaluable to your ability for preventing future disease.
If you want to learn more about your methylation cycle, speak to your doctor.
Eat a Balanced Diet to Support Methylation
DNA methylation is still a relatively new concept. There aren't hundreds of human studies yet to conclusively prove that diet and lifestyle choices impact methylation.
Eating a whole food diet rich in plant foods is your best pathway to good health and disease prevention. Here are some ideas for adding antioxidant foods to your diet.
Supplements for Methylation Support: Found
Methylation Support | Supplements
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