Ask Dr Franz

Q:What exactly is a MTHFR mutation and who should be tested?
Should adults or children receive vaccinations if the have a MTHFR mutation?

Ans: MTHFR is methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase- an enzyme that needs B12 to convert homocysteine to methionine. It is important because a deficiency leads to a backup of the pathway and too much homocysteine which may cause heart attacks and strokes later in life- the literature is still finding out about this. There are two mutations along the chromosome were this enzyme’s DNA is located. One mutation (heterozygous) decreases the pathways efficiency by 30% and 2 mutations (homozygous) decreases the pathways efficiency by 70%. Everyone with either one or two mutations needs supplementation  with methyl-folate and B12. There are several good brands that will work.

Laughing gas- NO or nitrous oxide is contraindicated (should not be had!) by people with this mutation.

Who should be tested? ideally – everyone.

the information of this mutation and vaccines is still in its infancy so there is not yet an abundance of “evidence based” studies…however, since vaccines contain toxins that can trigger problems- I would not recommend anyone with this mutation receive vaccines.

As usual though, if someone feels his/her child or him/herself needs a vaccine- we will respect that choice. It is a fact that some people will do well in spite of underlying potential triggers and others will not.

The healthier you are the less you need intervention.

Great question.

We love helping improve the health of your family.

Dr Franz