107: How the MTHFR Gene Affects Our Metabolic Health with Dr. Ben Bikman

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In this Metabolic Classroom lecture, Dr. Bikman explores the MTHFR gene and how common mutations can affect overall metabolic health. Ben explains the biochemical role of the MTHFR enzyme in the methylation cycle, its influence on homocysteine levels, and its downstream impact on DNA repair, neurotransmitter synthesis, and detoxification.

Ben also discusses how impaired MTHFR function contributes to oxidative stress and insulin resistance, particularly through its effect on the insulin receptor’s expression and membrane insertion. He draws attention to the connection between poor methylation and chronic conditions like fatigue, hormone imbalance, and even cardiovascular risk.

The lecture also provides practical strategies to support healthy methylation, including the use of methylated B vitamins (such as methylfolate and methylcobalamin), food sources like liver, and appropriate cooking methods for plant-based folate. His emphasis throughout is on using targeted nutrition and lifestyle choices to compensate for genetic vulnerabilities.

Show Notes/References:

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Translation Notes:

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#MTHFR, #MetabolicHealth, #InsulinResistance, #Methylation, #BenBikman, #Homocysteine, #Folate, #MTHFRMutation, #FunctionalMedicine, #Nutrigenomics, #B12, #B6, #LiverHealth, #OxidativeStress, #Mitochondria, #HormoneHealth, #DNARepair, #FattyLiver, #NutritionalGenetics, #HealthOptimization

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