Symptoms of MTHFR defect vary among individuals and depending on the type of mutation. Some people may have no symptoms at all; others may have more severe complications like increased risk for heart disease, sluggish detox, miscarriages in child-bearing women, and more.

Most people usually do not know that they have an MTHFR mutation unless they experience severe symptoms or undergo genetic testing.

Children with MTHFR gene mutation may be at increased risk for ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, or autoimmune disorders. However, just because one inherits the mutation does not necessarily mean they will have the problem.

Having one or two MTHFR mutations can slightly increase the levels of homocysteine present in the blood. Homocysteine is an amino acid that the body produces by breaking down dietary proteins.

High levels of homocysteine can damage blood vessels and lead to blood clots. People who have high homocysteine levels tend to have low levels of vitamin B12.

Symptoms of homocysteinemia due to MTHFR mutations include:

• abnormal blood clotting
• developmental delays
• seizures
• microcephaly
• poor coordination
• numbness or tingling in the hands and feet

Find out if you or your child has an MTHFR gene defect with a home personal DNA testing kit.

First of all, avoid extra folic acid, the synthetic form of folate. People who have MTHFR gene defect cannot use folic acid properly and often don’t feel well after taking it.

Some with MTHFR gene mutation should avoid food fortified with synthetic vitamins, such as energy drinks, protein bars, fortified breakfast cereals, and many other processed foods. Also, many cheap drug-store brand B vitamin supplements and multivitamins contain synthetic folic acid, and therefore, they should be avoided.

Avoid the synthetic version of B12 (cyanocobalamin). Instead, use the bioactive forms (methylcobalamin, hydroxycobalamin, and adenosylcobalamin). Avoid exposure to environmental toxins and eat a clean diet wherever possible as the detoxification process is slowed with MTHFR defect.

Other forms of folate are generally better for people with MTHFR, including 5-MTHF, methyl folate, and folinic acid.

Of course, you can always get the natural folate from naturally folate-rich foods, including spinach, asparagus, chickpeas, beans, broccoli, and dark green leafy vegetables. These foods naturally contain a form of folate that is more bioavailable and generally easier for the body to use.

Methylated versions of folate (methyl folate) and vitamin B-12 (Methylcobalamin, hydroxycobalamin, or adenosylcobalamin) and biologically active form of vitamin B6 (pyridoxal-5-phosphate or P-5-P) should always be the first choice.

Thorne Methyl-Guard Plus contains active, tissue-ready forms of folate, vitamins B2, B6 and B12 for optimal absorption and brain functions.

Ok, there you have it…

I hope you find this information helpful. Let me know what you think and comment below.

Remember, ADHD does not doom your child to a life of under-achievement. You know your child is bright, full of potential, and deserves the best. In fact, many of the world’s most significant discoveries and inventions were made by people with ADHD.

I helped my crazy wild child who could not read or write when she was little with the four pillars I laid out in the Eat to Focus book. She’s now a merit scholarship student studying premed at Loyola Chicago University.

So stay strong and keep believing in your child.

Check out the Eat to Focus book to learn about my story and the four steps that I used to transform my daughter and help her reach her full potential. This information may change your child’s future.

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