L Methylfolate: What, Why, When, How and Side Effects

[@JuliePeterson-12345]

If I said to my doc “hey doc, I don’t feel good on methyl folate” she’d say “methyl what?!”…they don’t have a clue

[@DrBenLynch]

good quick test

[@betelgeuse68]

Most MDs are useless. I nearly died in 2017 after being prescribed a medication that I should never have been prescribed. The root of my problem was HPA axis dysfunction and way too much cortisol being released by my adrenal glands (not Cushing's Disease though). I was on the verge of passing out every time I ate and I didn't understand what was going on so I went to an "expert." The drug was an SSRI that wound up causing severe dysautonomia that had me often thinking of suicide. Words cannot express the misery I had to live through. Acupuncture over the course of years was my path to recovery and let me tell you the path to recovery was not easy. While "damaged" as I recovered I started to educate myself and the more I learned, the more disgusted I became of Medical Doctors. I'm undermethylated and the root of many life long problems immediately became clear. My sister also inherited the MTHFR gene variant from our mother and she dealt with grand mal epileptic seizures for 30+ years. During all that time, she had various medications prescribed to her one of which I recall having very strong side effects. And yet, the seizures kept coming. Then in 2021 she had two seizures in less than 2 months and that scared her a great deal (her average was one every 6 months). By then my understanding of methylation and neurochemistry was rock solid and I even had (and still do) a Twitter following. Previous my sister was resistant to hearing me out since she didn't want to make dietary changes but after 2 seizures in less than 2 months she had a "Coming to Jesus" moment and simply told me "Just tell me what to." Well she listened to her autodidact brother and last month she reached 3 years with *NO* grand mal epileptic seizures, no medication required. Amazing what you can achieve when you understand the underlying machinery and its needs -> don't count on your MD to have any clue though.

[@gif24gt60]

Sounds like one of the many zombie docs😮

[@judithmdza9500]

Same with my Dr when I asked if I should take calcium for my teeth problems

[@JC-il4or]

Why on earth aren't more YT medicos covering this? With 40-60% of the population affected it would seem appropriate to deal with the side effects of methylfolate while you are on the subject!! This is the first I have seen, including my DO who offered no solution despite extensive practice in nutrition. A big thank you!!

[@betelgeuse68]

Big Pharma my friend. SSRIs bring in BILLION$ every month.

[@Paul-hu1ht]

I fired my GP 6 months ago - I feel amazing 💖

[@davidbarbour2368]

I just got my Promethease report, and front and center was the MTHFR defect (the worse one, homologous T/T). I also apparently have Gilbert's Syndrome, which interferes with Phase II liver detoxification. I am excited about trying to find my way to an effective strategy for dealing with my particular array of metabolic defects. I am pleased to have found your channel and am preparing to dig into the wealth of information that seems to be available there.

[@ttusch]

Same here. I was checking with Dante labs.. also have the TT mutation :/

[@sgtaneja]

MTHFR can be deficiency or rate limiting factor @ one/more points in the entire Folate cycle. You need availabilty of ALL Folate cycle metabolic cofactors to address MTHFR effectively. These are :: 1. Folate / MethylFolate / 5MTHF 2. Active B2 / R5P 3. Active B6 / P5P 4. Glycine/Serine 5. Methyl--B12 Folate metabolism is also rate limited by iron & heme metabolism as well as histamine metabolism, which in turn depends on availability of B6, B12, Copper, vit C, vit A & Glycine. And if you are looking at universal methyl donor, you also need SAMe/methionine. You can also balance methyl groups across 5MTHF, Glycine, TMG, SAMe, Choline. However, this balancing act depends on the ratio of SAM/SAH & redox GSH as well. If you are looking to balance methylation (over vs under), you also need Niacin/B3 which is a methyl group acceptor across many of its metabolic pathways. Finally, having synthetic Folic acid will disrupt Folate cycle.

[@nelsonmorales6831]

I’ve had the MTHFR respiratory snip my whole life and applied your supplemental and dietary recommendations through many of your videos years ago and have never been the same with the amazing relief of all the hacking and throat clearing I’ve dealt with for decades. I started dating a lady similar to my retirement age and immediately saw her exact embarrassing symptoms. She started doing the lozenges and immediately her same symptoms I use to have disappeared. Even with her well disciplined cruciferous diet, she needed this boost. She’s a different gal. I’m her hero now! Thank You!!!

[@isoar599]

In this presentation, you refer to the condition as “MTHFR”. To be clear, MTHFR is actually an enzyme that reduces folic acid. The condition you are discussing here is MTHFR DEFICIENCY. Ie, a person may have decreased activity of this enzyme and therefore, a deficiency in reduced folic acid. Thanks for posting this, it is a good topic but potentially confusing for many people.

[@blackbirdsinging6264]

Its definately NOT anywhere in the U.K news! I came across this researching for myself.Ive subscribed ,great video,Health care is abysmal here so I need all the help I can get,thank you.

[@artsiecrafty4164]

Great information. All I know is, I have been taking this, and I’ve never felt better in my life! I started with one, and now I take two. I’ve had depression and insomnia most of my life.

[@DrBenLynch]

Methylfolate is amazing for mood and energy. I do want you to understand though that it's powerful - and once your body is 'full' of methylfolate, it can lead to anxiety and irritability. The trick is understanding this and pulsing it. My book really explains this well - I call it the Pulse Method. I also point out many other genes which are key to depression and insomnia - amzn.to/2EmtTmn

[@greggsharkey4637]

I appreciate your work in producing this, thank you, well done.

[@Amber31317]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate this video and look forward to watching more of them, I can see your heart and soul in your work as it hits home for you as well. I am getting ready to head over to Amazon to order your book. I feel a bit of relief, along with frustration after being diagnosed with this gene mutation... like why isn't it discussed more, why aren't doctors better educated and why are countless lives so brutally affected by mental illness, when there appears to be a solution? Oh and why are we sold garbage to eat? Greed is all I can assume. Being someone who is affected by bipolar disorder, IBS and who is always tired this is gut wrenching and overwhelming. My son also has high functioning autism and my daughter ADHD, it is infuriating to think of all the hardship that comes with these diagnosis's and to know they could be helped by things that should really just be the norm and we shouldn't have to try so hard to correct. Sorry for the rant. I am just baffled. I look forward to taking advantage of the information you are putting out and greatly appreciate it. Love and light to you!!!

[@summersunshine3641]

Summer Brady on Facebook add me i am in similar situation

[@shaku55]

Agreed, about greed being the root cause of the world ignoring this data. I'm just discovering this mutation for myself… But I wonder how much your bipolar and IBS have been positively impacted by addressing this for yourself. Any health updates you feel like sharing?

[@sawdustadikt979]

I’ve been taking this for a couple years. I was given it from a dietitian that helped me clear a bad case psoriasis that no one could help me get any better from. I have been on a cocktail of supplements that have been keeping me clear. But, I was having a lot of life stress. So when anxiety attacks came, it was the life stuff, then then I started getting vertigo, with anxiety attacks. It’s the life stress. Things kept getting worse where I felt like my mind was shaking and my whole nervous system was on high alert. Then one day, alot really bad stuff happened while dealing with all of that. Like a light switch, I started having panic attacks with heart palpitations that lasted for hours, every day for weeks on end. Couldn’t drive anywhere for a couple months. I visited many different docs trying to get my psoriasis under control, it was covering 80% of my body. One of the naturopaths I visited had my genes tested and she said I had mthfr but that there wasn’t much known about it except that I was prone to inflammation, strokes and heart attacks. After 9 months of extreme symptoms that were now having a bad week with a few good days it really took a turn with these migraines that horrible, with deep sadness and panic. The mthfr memory popped in my head, I found some of your videos and I stopped taking the methyl folate, the symptoms lightened by the day. I’m about a month in and I haven’t felt this normal in a couple years now. From what I have found I also believe that I’m having a thiamine deficiency. I have 90% of the symptoms there of. I cannot find any info on supplementing thiamine with mthfr. I am waiting on a gene test to run through stratagene. A quick flip through your book dirty genes has nothing on b1. Anyone have any experiences with this?

[@Herbie11]

Damn girl! You got a lot goin' on.

[@tinkerbellUK]

I cleared my very bad psoriasis by taking probiotics and getting a water softener

[@ValhallaGuild]

I have sme symptoms as you nut without the psoriasis. Where did you get tested?

[@mossrockpine]

Joanne Kennedy explains why methylfolate and methylcobalamin speeds up the mthfr pathway and begins to break down histamine causing many reactions including the headaches, migraines, depression, etc. So you have to fix the gut microbiome, the SIBO, the inflammation and histamine first! I've been working on my gut, but still have histamine intolerance, so i cannot tolerate the methyls at all still.

[@legacyopp9318]

Can you describe histamine intolerance? Then how will you fix this issue?

[@MishMacky]

Omg, thank you!!! This explains ALOT!!!

[@binathere2574]

There at 5 different mthfr genes that either effect your upper gut, lower gut and brain, in combination or alone. I think investigate those. Plus B12 deficiency is a cause of many gut issues. Get correct order of investigation first.

[@roonbooks3227]

Abram Hoffer is one of my health hero's. He worked very closely with my immunologist here is saskatchewan. Also a leader on trying to introduce LSD as a treatment in saskatchewan way way back in the 60s

[@MrBrianDuga]

One of the better Ben Lynch videos on this topic. More teaching and less "talk to your Doctor". I respect the reason for those kinds of statements, but a lot of Dr's just have no clue on these topics. Even some of them who have taken 1 or 2 classes from Seeking Health may not understand how to navigate when things get tricky. Staying objective is important and even Dr's shouldn't treat themselves. But getting this stuff right takes constant tweaking and re-assessment, especially if like me, you've got some difficult SNPs like COMT and CBS. On that front, I took folate for the 1st time in years yesterday after finally getting established in a modified ketogenic diet for a few months (lower protein, higher veg, high fat) to manage the potential CBS issue. Instead of anxiety and anger from methyl B12 and folate, I simply fealt fatigue. Which I will chaulk up to a bit of garbage being collected. I'll call that a success. Definately taking this one slow and will probably rotate the days a bit more conservatively at first. I used to rush in and pile on nutrients but have learned to be slow with introductions.

[@DrBenLynch]

I hear you. It's a fine line. Have you read Dirty Genes yet? This will be the best place to truly start and clean up your genes. You can get a copy of Dirty Genes here - amzn.to/2EmtTmn or any bookstore. CBS issue is not really a genetic one - but more epigenetic - in fact, most are epigenetic. I walk you through this in Dirty Genes and you can see real time if your genes are 'dirty' by taking quizzes and then I give you suggestions how to support them. Glad you're getting better! I would say that feeling fatigue though is still not ideal - you should feel great not fatigued. I still think you're not ready for it.

[@MrBrianDuga]

Wow thanks for taking the time to respond! I admit I bought your book on pre-order, it's been on my kindle, and I haven't started it yet. It's gonna happen though. I will make time. PS love the work you're doing lately with fluoroquinolone toxicity. a HUGE service. Floxxed a number of years ago (6-8) and I know it effected me for a long time, probably still does in thankfully more and more subtle ways. Keep going, you're making a big difference.

[@legacyopp9318]

I've seen a few youtubers covering this and you are very informative and easy to follow. Thank you

[@DrBenLynch]

Thank you

[@hanbulban3131]

I found methyl folate 5 helps big for depression. New research says in some cases it cures depression highly recommend

[@keewee23]

@Gal Horowitz Any news?

[@victoriap2519]

Ed true! The best way to go with whole foods like leafy greens than standing alone nutrient, like ascorbic acid which is called vitamin C often but it is not! Vitamin C is having 3 compounds within! And ascorbic acid is just a shell of those 3

[@brianatomboulianbrown7836]

Thank you so much! I love your talks! I'm learning so much and excited to improve my health with my double A1298C mutations.

[@scottwilson5356]

I was given the Genomind test which showed that I was heterozygous for MTHFR and the NP told me to start taking Deplin 15mg of L-methylfolate. I had no side effects from it but wasn't sure it was helping with the depression I was seen for. Later my insurance company stopped paying for Deplin and so I scrambled to find another supplement and all the over the counter ones were at the regulated RDA of 800mcg so I found another company, Methylpro, that sold a product that was 15 mg of (L-5-methylfolate, glucosamine salt). It also has 15 mg of B6, 1000mcg of b12 methylcobalamin and 125mg of magnesium. I was also living under the diagnosis of RA and significant joint pain. I had listened to one of your presentations that said if you start taking large doses of methylfolate that it can cause increased pain from inflammation. They have since said I have reactive osteoarthritis instead of RA. I'm just wondering if I'm taking too much or if this particular form is correct? I started this before you were marketing your own brand and wonder if I should be using it instead. I have just recently done the 23andme test and am waiting for the results. Is 15mg too much to be taking and is this just like what you showed on the board that it's just another name for the same thing? Thank you for the work that you do, I really appreciate it and all the videos that are so informative.

[@DrBenLynch]

Basing methylfolate dosage off a genetic test is not wise. You're lucky you had no side effects from 15 mg of Deplin. That's massive. I suspect you may have folate receptor antibodies or low in vitamin B12 or MTR gene slowed for some reason - so B12/MTHF cannot get through. The root of depression lies in inflammation. Read Dr Brogan's book - amzn.to/2nbLmqN Methylfolate is a powerful nutrient - but it's not the snake oil we all want it to be. Please read this article as well - many lifestyle points - mthfr.net/mthfr-c677t-mutation-basic-protocol/2012/02/24/

[@MarcellaSmithVegan]

Would the liquid Liposomal Methylfolate be a good choice for those with antibodies initially as they clean their gut up?

[@binathere2574]

​@@MarcellaSmithVeganno. B Vitamins are water soluable

[@weightmn]

So much great information in this video, thank you Dr. Lynch. I learned things in this video I hadn't heard anywhere else. Very much appreciated!

[@RobertSelig]

Thank you and great explanation! I think channelopathies are the #1 reason why the nutrients are not getting into the cells and as you alluded to food toxicities, especially from the notorious roundup ready glyphosate and things of that nature. As well as the heavy metals, the oxidized minerals, and the many infections we are all walking around with. Mercury blocks 1000 ions of zinc, and with low levels of zinc, there are low levels of stomach acid, as well as RNA transcription becomes compromised, and the other 300 enzymatic functions that zinc is responsible for.

[@DrBenLynch]

I agree. I'm wanting to dig more into this -

[@Byrial]

Any amount of mercury blocks 1000 ions of zinc?

[@Rachel-Louise]

This is interesting my serum zinc level has just come back below low reference limit at 11.1 mol/L {12.0 - 20.0} Yet my Doctor (I'm in the UK) said that I don't need any treatment. I'm here looking into methylfolate vs folic acid as that is rock bottom too along with Vit D

[@savewldlife339]

And who in the world would put a thumbs down? Goes to show some people are still living in the past and need to come to terms with today's' health care and that it keeps progressing. Regular GP's are so misinformed and must be more educated on this. It's probably THEM giving the thumbs down.

[@michaeltemer1104]

MTHF is helping me with ADHD symptoms and is also making medicines more effective.

[@banzobeans]

Interesting!

[@Mercury1955]

Thanks Dr Lynch - I been using this for probably five years and use to go "over" from time to time and yes side effects can be intense. I saw your Niacin suggestion I think a year or two back and it does work. I rarely go over now and I can feel it when I do start to go over at which time I stop for a bit and take more Niacin. It works.

[@DrBenLynch]

awesome ;) - it certainly does! thank you for sharing your experience and glad it is working well for you! I talk about this now as the 'Pulsing Method' and outline it in my upcoming book - www.amazon.com/Dirty-Genes-Breakthrough-Program-Optimize/dp/0062698141 - I believe you'll love learning about other genes and 'quiz' yourself to see how well your genes are working!

[@TrancerB7]

What's so funny is only recently have I been able to tolerate methylfolate. I tried it in and off for years with no success but when it did work I felt really good temporarily. I've been taking more Thiamine and Methylcobalamin (2.5-5mcg) as well as TMG and occasionally I throw in Glycine. Folinic Acid helps me sleep better so I take it too. The guy at the supplement store convinced me to buy NAC which seems to not cause side effects, but I'd like to try lioosomal glutathione soon.

[@lisasmith4296]

Try high dose vitamin D3 for sleep and magnesium malate 🙏

[@Sam48772]

The first person I have heard mentioning the milk connection. I am lactose intolerant. I have lactose intolerant friends who took folic acid through their pregnancies and their lactose intolerance settled, only to return after childbirth when folic acid stopped.

[@francisco77pp]

Great video and quite helpful. In your constant research have you tried using system dynamics modeling and simulation to understand foliates, homocysteine dynamics and mainly buildup effects. ?

[@DrBenLynch]

I haven't but I have seen various papers doing such. It is pretty cool. I've also done some on my own - without math - just putting my pathways together and going through various scenarios. There are many. StrateGene helps do this - www.strategene.org - I do agree building a model would - and is - necessary. I am wanting to do this and am planning to do so. Great point.

[@cynthiawagstaff7458]

so much good info! so happy to find anyone talking about methylation !!!

[@yeahhhhh9209]

thanks for the perfect explanation, i have just a question: 'm a cyclist and a runner and have a thalassemia trait so i usually take b complex with folic acid would you recommend to try L-Methylfolate instead , could it be beneficial for my blood, hemoglobin levels etc?

[@rosagarcia7423]

I cant take methyl folate makes me sick but i feel awesome! Taking folinic acid , i have mthfr c677t +/-

[@latoyanance3815]

Rosa Garcia I agree that's what I'm going through right now folic better for me then methly folate

[@ldjt6184]

Why does it cause these side effects?

[@Byrial]

What do you mean you feel sick but awsome? Doesent sound very awsome...

[@clubadv]

@@Byrial for me, I get feverish and flu like symptoms,but my energy levels and brain power skyrockets.

[@TRIBOY16]

Should take with methyl b12 and magnesium

[@daniham8095]

Hi! I've learned that my teen sons and myself all have MTHFR SNPs. How do we know if we have folate receptor antibodies?

[@tjsiri72]

Thank you for this video! I went to a func med dr who gave me B12 shots (major side effects), 10mg l-methylfolate, B12 (5,000 iu) D3K2, 400mg magnesium, and it all made me unable to get out of bed and muscle spasms in my back. I have always been sensitive to things or had paradoxical reactions. And I don't know if being under 95lbs has anything to do with it. I stopped all of it. Changing diet and taking only 1mg of l-methyfolate, 1mg B12, your Mag Plus, and just bought your D3K2 drops (500iu). So far feeling better (didn't start the D yet)

[@sixgunsue8]

I too get muscle spasms from these types of supplements except magnesium, that actually gives me relief. I wish I knew why!

[@dglow03]

Thank you for responding Dr. Lynch and for the supplement suggestions. I was confused because in an article in a psychology magazine, it was stated that a mythofolate needed to be taken in 7.5 to 10 milligrams in adjunct with an antidepressant to help those with treatment resistant depression.

[@DrBenLynch]

yes - because that article was likely written by someone from a pharmaceutical company. That recommendation can help some yes - but it is not addressing the underlying problem. My book, Dirty Genes, addresses many of the underlying common problems of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and others. www.amazon.com/Dirty-Genes-Breakthrough-Program-Optimize/dp/0062698141/

[@TheBenzoHouse]

Be careful with any psychiatric drugs they do more harm than good.

[@tdibari]

Awesome information! Thank you.

[@tessagurley8013]

Thank you for the wealth of information and incredible supplements you make!

[@DrBenLynch]

You're welcome! Thank you for your support!

[@madatyana14]

My daughter who is 12 has celiac and is hetero 677 MTHFR but has very high levels of B12. What do you do in this case for her body to use the B12 versus it building up in her system?

[@AnneFallible]

Does methylfolate need to be taken with B12? How much is too much B12?

[@javierzegarra1933]

Are methylation issues and persistent high ldl cholesterol related? Thank you for all your incredible posts!

[@DrBenLynch]

Can be yes because gallbladder and bile health is important to maintain cholesterol levels. Gallbladder health requires phosphatidylcholine which requires a lot of methylation. PEMT is a gene I discuss in my book called Dirty Genes which describes this well and gives actionable steps.

[@joseynoyb9467]

thank you. my doctor did not explain any of this to me

[@AliNaqviLife]

Thanks Doc. We are trying to conceive. My wife takes 400mcg of Methylefolate, and also a multivitamin which has 200mcg of Folic Acid. Can Methylefolate and Folic acid be taken together, also is the dose she's taking is alright? Please advise. Thank you!

[@GerardoSanchez-mb9ed]

I've been looking to ass L-methylfolate to my supplements. Most L-methylfolate I find are at a minimum 1700 mcg DFE. is that safe? Seeing how it's not prescribed or at the rda 800mcg

[@TheRagbags1]

Great video the only thing is I’m high histamine so under methylation can I take this ? Slightly confused

[@lindaparris3523]

Great information thank you

[@evaadel4387]

Why to investigate.. we should all take the active form and that's it.

[@DrBenLynch]

great point!

[@SanFranMission415]

Hi Dr. I know this is an old video but need some help. I recently found out I have the MTHFR C677T: C/T A1298C: A/A and my Dr. recommend L-Methylfolate. I started to take it and noticed the following day that mood and sharpness was on point. I haven’t felt that way in so many years and I loved it. I felt so normal but unfortunately the following week it stopped working. I felt my mood had gotten much worst and feel so tired. What happened and what can I do to get back to normal? I did read your article and bought some Niacin 100mg from Rite Aid. Thank you so much.

[@connyginter-healthcoach]

Could it be that the anxiety isn’t immediately? Because I started 1,000 mcg of folate 2 months ago and first I got a bad anxiety attack once a month and now it’s happening once a week 😬😬

[@bananaana04]

I took a methylated b12 pill 5000mcg for 3 days starting april 1, by april 3 had to call 911 bc headache, tremors, felt faint, tingling hands and feet, full blown panic attack, still over 2 months later dealing with these insane symptoms. What could possibly be causing this?

[@kirebyte]

Question, because no one could diagnose this on time I got prescribed methylfenidate, metformin, losartan and amlodipin... my question is... when 5-MTHF starts working, when will it be safe to start taking out the other meds?

[@patriciamoldovan3092]

Hello. I have been struggling with joint pain for over a year. Following chemo for a 2nd breast cancer diagnosis, I sought treatment from a neurologist who knew I was taking anti depressants, & prescribed L-methyl folate to improve the efficacy of my anti depressant. Over the course of the year, however, I have not been unable to get to the root cause of my joint pain (particularly in my hips). I stumbled across your information & am wondering if the joint pain may actually be directly related to the use of l-methylfolate. My oncologist believes it may be my aromatase inhibitor, because they also can be a cause of joint pain, & so I am in search of the one causing the least amount of pain. You now have me rethinking the potential root cause of the problem. Im thinking if I bring this to my oncologists attention, she will more than likely suggest I discontinue the l-methylfolate. I understand l-methylfolate, in large quantities, can also contribute to increased tumor growth. Thank you for your information. This may make all the difference in the world in helping me resolve this year long distressing issue.

[@swatisatkar8787]

Thank u sir for detailed explanations

[@TheBenzoHouse]

Do we need methofolate when we eat a good diet? I carrie one mutated C677T. Why do we use Methyfolate then if it makes us sick? How does our body make it and not make us sick?

[@SpiritTracker7]

Keep in mind, Niacin at higher does (2grams+) can kill a person, or at minimal make them extremely sick. I purchased a 1000mg Niacin bottle as part of my workout stack. For reason I popped 2 of them (2g) and went into work out.. not only did I turn redder than a tomato, but I literally thought I was going to self combust from the burning... It was very uncomfortable and sickening for several hours. I had to leave the gym only after 15 minutes because I was freaking out. I was really really sick that day, I felt death knocking. That said, there have been controlled studies whereby it was proven that one can reach niacin toxicity at higher doses. One poor candidate required a liver transplant just for participating in the study... niacin toxicity can shut down your liver in hours for some people... for others they just get really sick but subsides with the discontinued use of those dosages. Now I am not comfortable with even 200 or 300 mcg of niacin.

[@coachdonnanelson]

Thanks Dr. Ben :) I always find the info you share so insightful and fascinating. I'm feeling a bit annoyed thinking about all the pregnant mom's myself included who are/have taken folic acid because their OB wrote a script for a crappy multi-vit and told us to be sure to take it because we need the folic acid for normal development -- this might be obvious but I'm curious to be sure I am understanding some of the consequences...particularly for a mother with MTHFR, if she is taking folic acid she is not getting the adequate folate because she needs methyl and likely none of us get enough of it in our diet, then the baby would have an increased chance of birth defect - is that right?

[@DrBenLynch]

You're welcome ;). You're close. If a pregnant woman is taking folic acid, she is not getting the right form of folate AND the folic acid is clogging up the body's ability to USE the natural folates found in REAL food like vegetables, liver and beans. Thus, baby will have increased risk of birth defects yes - and mom will also start struggling with symptoms too as she is also folate deficient. .Solution is to use natural folates - eat them via vegetables, salad, organ meats (grass fed, free range - Im not a fan of organ meats but they are high in folate) - and to use a prenatal like Optimal Prenatal which has natural folates - methylfolate and folinic acid - along with choline (which is also commonly low in pregnant women.)

[@coachdonnanelson]

WOW! My second son was born with a rare birth defect, trisomy 18. I have been so curious as to why. Intuitively I have always believed it was nutritionally based and haven't been able to confirm what malfunctioned. Your work and this message is so important. xo

[@DrBenLynch]

I hear you Donna. I agree with you. We are not taught enough about how to care for our future unborn children - only recommendation = take folic acid. Far from enough. I realize your son has trisomy 18 - but this also relates as it is still a trisomy. It actually relates to any birth defect - not just trisomy - mthfr.net/what-causes-down-syndrome/2016/09/28/

[@DrBenLynch]

Hi Donna. Annoyed is a nice way to put it - I feel absolutely irate - especially now because the research is showing and demonstrating otherwise. Yes one has to look for it - but it is there. We also have more active forms of folate available now. Folic acid was great for people when we had no other alternatives. Now ...we do. RE: your question: A woman, regardless of MTHFR or not, if she is taking folic acid, she is not getting adequate folate because she, her baby, her placenta all need active folates - which are folinic acid (for DNA/RNA synthesis and energy base production) and methylfolate (for methylation). If we are not getting enough folate in our diet, choline (which 90% of women are also deficient in), is the backup protection of methylation. If both folate and choline are low, one can be sure they are going to have birth defects, miscarriage or a very troubled pregnancy/delivery. If one or the other are deficient, then birth defects are likely but not guaranteed. What is guaranteed though in low choline is memory / cognition will be difficult in the future child.

[@coachdonnanelson]

Great article thanks :)

[@SheikYerbuty]

I was told that in some cases depressed individuals are low in L-methylfolate. My saliva was tested, it found that I was low, was prescribed 15 mg daily for depression. I feel somewhat confused and more lethargic than usual, but some improvement in my mood. I have started to have back aches, don't know if it is related. Been thinking about lowering it to 7.5.

[@DrBenLynch]

Yes - L-methylfolate is related to low neurotransmitter function and depression. The issue is how MUCH is prescribed. It is WAY too much. We are talking massive amounts compared to the RDA of 400 mcg. Your symptoms are ABSOLUTELY related. Please read this - mthfr.net/preventing-methylfolate-side-effects/2014/11/26/

[@brandyoneal829]

So is it worth it to take it because of the potential side effects? I found out I have MTHFR so I order 1000mg of methylfolate but now I am wondering if they will do me more harm then good and if 1000 is too much? I didn't hear you mention too many benefits of this but I did hear many side effects.

[@lenorepaletta9267]

Brandy O'neal He likes to contradict himself.

[@MarcellaSmithVegan]

Youve got to track with what he is focused on, there is Hours and Hours of information on this subject, he was reviewing one piece. Basically, taking methyl folate and B12 is Very Important if you have the MTHFR gene variance, but if you have weird side effects than this video addresses them and this is what they will be and this is what to do about it. It is a huge subject, but baseline get a good quality multi methy B vitamin, preferably designed specifically with MTHFR in mind, they are getting popular, just read the label. Not to many people have side effects, its rare, but if you do this is important to know

[@MarcellaSmithVegan]

Not only does the dr sell them but companies like Jarrow make them too, just look around

[@Byrial]

Thank you for the answares Ben... what do you think of synthetic b-vitamins?? I recently read they deplete potassium and i was happy to finally recieve a b-complex from Jarrows with some activated forms... i felt good from these capsules and still have a positive experience with them but i really dont know if they're synthetic... i think eventually ill go liver for folate+b12 and bee pollen for the rest of the b vitamins..

[@Cccc-ky4vq]

Bodybuilders are using this

[@lmj612]

Does methylation defects contirbute to Lipomas? any clues how if so? or how to treat?

[@dglow03]

Thanks Dr. Lynch. I will look into this book!

[@dglow03]

Dr. Lynch, I was told I should take 7.5 to 15 milligrams of l-methlyfolate to help with my depression due to the mthfr mutation. I purchased the lozenges that are only 1000 mcg, but will this help at such a low dose? I’m very confused.

[@DrBenLynch]

Hi Donna - it's not possible to prescribe l-methylfolate based on the MTHFR diagnosis. It may or may not help - and dosage can definitely not be made based on the MTHFR status alone. Yes - the lozenges can definitely help - especially if combined with B12 - www.seekinghealth.com/active-b12-with-l-5-mthf-60-lozenges - One needs B12 in order to make the MTHF work. I'd also greatly recommend Optimal Electrolyte and Optimal Liposomal Glutathione Plus. Without these two, one could have side effects from the L-methylfolate. mthfr.net/preventing-methylfolate-side-effects/2014/11/26/ 5-HTP could help - if you notice you are carb binging a lot. L-Tyrosine can help if you are low energy and poor focus.

[@davidferguson1225]

My doctor prescribed me this stuff but the side effects are awful and worry me I haven't taken it yet if it's like a low dosage of 1 mg does it still have the side effects so I can build an immunity

[@vanessac1965]

My naturopath wanted me on 800mcg of methylfolate a day but it made sooo angry and depressed I couldn't do it. I'm fine on 400mcg a day. She mentioned maybe I had a comt gene issue and to take folinic acid, but I wonder whether that's really the case or if methylfolate problems are just common regardless for other reasons

[@m.santos877]

Late to the game here. I've recently learned am homozygous for C667. NP prescribed Delpin 15 mg, which seems like a lot given my lifestyle. I've decided to try the protocol outlined on your website. Question: Do people with this gene mutation need to take the supplements forever? I can't seen to find the answer to this question.

[@nanchesca3950]

Dr. Lynch, can you become intolerant to methylfolate after being okay on it for a long time? I have been giving my son AOR Advanced B complex for several years, it has 1000 mcg of calcium L-5-MTHF in it. Lately I have observed that on days he takes it he gets moody and fidgety. Even he notices it. Unless it is one of the other b vitamins that he could be reacting to?

[@DrBenLynch]

absolutely. can you get tired of eating ice cream even though you love it? you're biochemistry pathways get full of any nutrient you take a long time. Pulse it...take one needed - not daily. I say this ALL. The. Time. ;)

[@DrBenLynch]

btw - it is absolutely related to the methylfolate or folate in general. Skip it some days. If he gets moody - give him 50 mg of niacin - that should neutralize it. Here is how to prevent methylfolate side effects - mthfr.net/preventing-methylfolate-side-effects/2014/11/26/

[@nanchesca3950]

Dr. Lynch, thank you for your reply. What is this getting tired of ice-cream that you speak of?!! ;-) We do pulse the vitamins but lately he was struggling in school with distraction and his moods were over the top so I decided to experiment and pay attention to his moods and what supplements he takes that day. Seems the B complex is the culprit, even if he hasn't taken it for a week. And it does contain niacin in the complex also. I read through the article, thank-you, we will give these a try. Interestingly, mornings where he eats eggs or something high in protein he does much better in class with distraction and mood

[@brianhill4153]

hey doc I appreciate this video. I have alot of the symptoms of this. I have found that when I juice vegetables, especially spinach along with others I get in a better mood for some hours. I tried niacin years ago after reading about DR. Hoffer's research and it helped me greatly. I appreciate you mentioning him.

[@TheJimmyswe150]

Yup spinach kills my depression, maybe because it's rich in tryptophan also, it also increases your test

[@mellasone]

Thank you for the great info given here. I've been trying to find out why my doctor has made me stop taking methylfolate after I was found positive for mthfr c677t with high histamine and normal copper levels. He said I'm undermethylating and that mthf will only decrease my methyl groups, I have been doing quite a lot of reading about this confusing condition and have found very contradicting theories whether or not to take methylfolate. I suffer from big time depression, anxiety, insomnia and after starting my doctor's protocol my symptoms got worse, he put me on 100mg zinc, 50mg p5p, 250 piridoxine hcl, methy b12 magnesium, calcium, vitE, vitC and methionine 750mg bd. I have stopped taking everything except zinc and magnesium because of my depression/anxiety getting worse, also I cannot conceive the idea of taking B complex vitamins in isolation wouldn't that create a problem? please any suggestion is most appreciated

[@DrBenLynch]

That confused me too. That is an awful lot of supplements to be taking. It is obvious to me that you are struggling from a neurotransmitter imbalance - and which one needs to be sussed out. High histamine is commonly due to low methylation or slowed (blocked). So taking MTHF and B12 would help - not hinder. A simple thing to do is to try SAMe - 250 mg - before bed - and if you can fall asleep well - then your methylation cycle is working well and you needed methylation support. Pretty simple. One nutrient. This article also goes into detail on histamine - mthfr.net/histamine-intolerance-mthfr-and-methylation/2015/06/11/ Here is a SAMe you could test with - www.seekinghealth.com/same-30-capsules If it keeps you awake or more anxious, stop taking it and use niacin about 50 mg every 30 minutes to a max of 150 mg. That should calm things down.

[@mellasone]

Thanks so much for your reply, yes I suspected a very troubled neurotransmitter production but haven't in the past been able to pin point the reason for it but now I know. I have tried SAMe but during the day and I noticed that it actually makes a difference although not marked, I will try it at night as suggested and will pay attention to effects. Thanks for the article very informative. finally I have began to understand the MTHFR puzzle altough it is a complex matter even for practitioners. Thank you again

[@МаринаС-с2п]

@@mellasone Could you find a solution for your health problems?

[@mariomello3495]

@@DrBenLynch how can i get in touch with you? I live in Brasil and found out I have abnormal MTHFR, would like tô know how tô proceed..

[@blackbirdsinging6264]

I have found research associating MTHFR with ApoE and ACE.Can you speak to this please.I suspect our family has MTHFR and are ApoE3/4 or 4/4. I briefly touched on ACE many years ago when my health first collapsed but need to re visit it.

[@stephaniewilson5284]

What are some of the physical side affects if being a person with a gene that doesn't let me absorb the nutrients that are in green leafy vegetables...and other foods. Anemia is one of my problems but what are the other symptoms?

[@zhongtingfeng5412]

Is L-5-methylfolate and L-5 methyltetrahydrofolate the same thing? Thank you!

[@DrBenLynch]

yep!

[@erkutbey]

when i take methylfolate and methylcobalamin it works but damages my gut it takes 1-2 weeks to repair and turn normal bowel movements .Should i support this with something else ?

[@nicole1832]

Learning so much, thanks for the info.

[@dannyhamilton7199]

Haha....I like Dr Ben Lynch already. How many abbrevations can you have for the same dang nutrient or "Thing"? You answered my question that quick. Thank you!

[@DrBenLynch]

right?

[@kellseystokes5762]

This is such a helpful video. I am curious, if you get rhinitis for a week after taking only 200 mcg methylfolate and have the 1298 mutation from both sides of your family, and you flush horribly when you take niacin, what do you do then? Folinic Acid seems to help tremendously, but methyfolate always makes my husband have terrible rhinitis.

[@luvleemary0205]

thank you Dr Lynch this clears things up alot!! Havent found a Dr in Las Vegas yet but I'm listening to you because to be honest the DRS here have shown to give up on me. I'm homozygous c677t and ill be starting your supplements as soon as i get more knowledge. Thank you a a million times! :)

[@DrBenLynch]

Hi Marisela - I hear you. It's hard finding a practitioner who understands this. It's very new information really. The best place to start is with Dirty Genes. It helps organize the information and explains it very well. I also don't want you starting supplements right away as discussed in the book. best place is to start is with a firm understanding ;) - and Dirty Genes will help get you there! amzn.to/2EmtTmn

[@natalie8518]

I love Vegas

[@thepathtarotwithemyvee928]

I am homozygous c677t, and presented with hashimoto and ovarian failure with a homocysteine of 27 and suffer from ICU chronic uticaria, I cannot wear regular clothing only organic clothing and hydroxyzine is the only medication that helps me control flare ups, when I flare up I get skin and anal hives, headaches, vision problems, kidney pain, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, I have been suffering for 2 years, I take methylguard plus and vitamin D 10000, how come my ICU does not go away with this treatment?

[@trendafile6356]

When does the side effects usually start? Is it right away or days later? Im trying to figure out if its the tablet causing certain things? Someone please answer?

[@cynthiaennis3107]

I have Capsules of L-Methylfolate 10mg, but don't know how long I should take it before Sublingual B12, which is Cyanocobalamin 5000mcg?? Should I even be taking the Cyanocobalamin?? Cannot find the other! Is that the one you sell combined?? Will have to watch you video again! Wish I could get it right! Very frustrating & hoping to feel well...soon! Thanks foe all you know & do!!! Luckily it was my Clinical Nurse Specialist who found this MTHFR mutation, as no anti-depressants worked on me or this other patient of hers & that's what showed up in both our blood work! Thank goodness it was covered! Have almost every symptom of it! Would've been helpful if my adoptive parents knew this at birth! Perhaps I will be able to afford your supplement combo! Hoping to be in a position to afford them again. Thanks for all your knowledge & this great presentation! Got here from the recommendation of Dr Olivia!

[@DrBenLynch]

It's a journey ;) and more complex than just hitting one gene in isolation. This will take you a step further: kzbin.info/www/bejne/boemgHqng9GWatU

[@ldjt6184]

What about calcium L-5 methyltetrahydrofolate? Is that a safe form?

[@cbessinger]

Thank you so much for the helpful info! I have this and am treating it, along with Celiac. Is there any RICE we can eat that is not fortified with folic acid? Why do they put folic acid in everything? Is it harmful to eat it now and then?

[@latoyanance3815]

Christie I have ulcerative coltis I agree with what u saying

[@DrBenLynch]

Hi Christie - great question. I see that Textmati rice does not have folic acid in it. www.shopwell.com/rice-select-texmati-brown-rice-organic/rice-other-grains/p/7440193041 Having some folic acid is ok. Do not get more than 200 mcg at a time ideally as that is the limit your DHFR gene can handle.

[@ليلىليلى-ه9ح]

My son is 7 years have mthfr and he do have high folic acid, high b12 his family docter recommend him l- methyfolate 7.5 L-methyl b12 I didn't give him yet should I start for him or not

[@khamikos1]

GREAT INFORMATION. THANKS DOCTOR

[@Lisa_Tamati]

Thank you so much❤❤❤

[@3hreebullieszKennel]

⁠hello sir, could you please help me out? I saw a video of Gary and started taking l-methyfolate 15,000 mcg for about 2-3 weeks.. I was going fine, noticed my feet burning , continue to take it, started having anxiety attacks, now I have skipped heartbeat I’ve been off l-methylfolate for about 6 days and continue to have the side effects of skipped heart beat palpitations… I started taking 600mg of nac what can I do to rid my self of these side effects mainly the palpitations….

[@DrBenLynch]

stop methylfolate. take Niacin. You'll be right in 30 minutes. www.seekinghealth.com/products/niacin

[@3hreebullieszKennel]

@@DrBenLynch yessir, I have not taken it in 7 days.. but I still get 1 heart palpitation a day around the same time everyday

[@cts6423]

Just got my Genesight report, my Primary Care Physician says MTHFR homozygous, gotta start methylated folate. Starting as soon as my order arrives.

[@DrBenLynch]

Glad you got tested! It's not that simple though - unfortunately. Please read this article - mthfr.net/preventing-methylfolate-side-effects/2014/11/26/

[@joditucker2485]

how does this defect relate to vit d deficiency and iron deficiency and carnitine deficiency? myself and my children have variations of this defective gene. We have POTS symptoms and severe fatigue, My son has symptoms of inflammation, but his blood markers are in range according to endocrinologist. They are taking iron and vit d. but levels only have slowly creeped up over the past two years. My sons were diagnosed with autism and adhd at puberty, all this started after starting puberty and having a strep or virus at school in 2019. any ideas on how to get them their life back? also diagnosed with hypermobile joint syndrome. Food sensory issues are super difficult. One of my sons, was always very thin and energetic, then puberty hit and all this started he was craving carbs and always hungry, gained weight and grew and the endo discovered the iron deficiency, not just ferritin, he tested four iron labs. This deficieny is what I was told, caused his thyroid to be hypo, which is why he craved carbs they said, and he gets anxiety and hyper active, more when his iron is low, also he was diagnosed with asthma and sleep apnea and his eosinophils are always high ,but they blame it on allergies. can you point me to anything to get this staightened out? Insurance doesn't cover natural doctors and not many natural doctors in my area. I also have vertigo and hypoglycemia ( not diabetic) my boys were just told their a1c was prediabetic/insulin resistance. my daughter has migraines and developed PNES. Thank you for any info!

[@g.s.5868]

if you took the 7.5 mg of methyl folate and start to feel bad, could you not stop it with active charcoal tablets or psyllium husk fiber + bentonite clay, to mop up whatever you just swallowed ?

[@DrBenLynch]

definitely worth a shot - however it does absorb very quickly and acts quickly. Using niacin seems to help many - but using charcoal could as well if done early enough

[@lanal810]

Hi dr. Lynch my child 4.5 years old have autism mthfr deficiency folic and folate , we buy from your company liquid form , how much we should give her to start? Please help us. Thank you

[@joebobmarley2854]

What causes some people to have negative side effects from l methyl folate ? And a b complex contains b3 (niacin) so would the b complex prevent negative side effects? I feel like I feel kind of sick to my stomach in a weird way after taking my b complex. I have mthfr.

[@savewldlife339]

With my MTRR gene mutation, I find that taking my methylcobalamin daily and then take methylfolate, I get pissed! for no reason. So I can relate to his folate situation. So I take half every other day and I feel great! :)

[@0OO369BfF-_0O]

For memory and cognitive performance, how much I need to take it ???

[@alicerose8057]

I want to know the difference between males and females when it comes to MTHFR and autism. Why is it more prevalent in males?

[@grumblekin]

You have a requirement of about 400-600mcg a day of folate, total, and that includes food and supplements. 7.5 milligrams of it is 18x higher than your actual requirements. Most synthetic B vitamins are given in high amounts because their absorption is so low; DFE is well absorbed and you don't need to dump tons of it in your body. Lower amounts of methylcobalamin is also OK; it's the form you get from food and is designed to be absorbed easily. Taking more than 1 milligram (1000mcg) of folate a day is not useful and might drive excess serotonin/dopamine production. Go get a bottle of Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw B complex and take 1 in the morning and 1 in the evening. Supplements derived from natural food and with ALL other Bs and cofactors and enzymes are the best way to get the THF/DFE that you need. You won't start punching your parents in the face. Taking 18x the recommended dosage is not useful.

[@jennamb87]

Also what is your b12 is alread high will the methylfolate start using up the b12 also how do you get rid of h.pylori

[@tangelasvitak2623]

Good stuff teacher

[@keepgoin1]

You're awesome Dr. Lynch!

[@mariaboek]

List of health care providers?

[@marijanefriday2634]

I do have this and do take L-Methylfolate. But after 1yr of taking all my problems have returned and some never went away and have got worse, Do I need to see a psychiatrist or a phycologist? please lead me in the right direction.

[@DrBenLynch]

sorry to hear this. You see someone who gets this. Typically an integrative health professional - MD, DO, DC, ND, RN, CN - doesn't really matter - as long as they have training in nutritional biochemistry. At www.drbenlynch.com I have a list of professionals who have trained with me - some more than others. Dr Jess Armine, Dr Eric Balcavage, Dr Bernarda Zenker, Dr Barry Smeltzer, Dr Eric Potter, Dr Shelese Pratt - all are some right off the top of my head who are excellent and there are many others. I'd read this too - mthfr.net/preventing-methylfolate-side-effects/2014/11/26/

[@bobbivaneman1584]

WONDERFUL VIDEO. THANK YOU FOR THE VALUABLE INFORMATION & THE HEART TO HELP THOSE IN NEED. I HAVE A FAULTY HLA GENE. MY BODY DOESN'T FLUSH OUT FUNGAL MYCOTOXINS ON IT'S OWN. DO YOU THINK MTHFR WOULD HELP ME ? I HAVE TOXIC MOLD ILLNESS & CIRS (CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE SYNDROME)). THE SYMPTOMS ARE HORRENDOUS & COMPLETELY DEBILITATING. MY BODY IS TRIGGERED BY THE SMALLEST AMOUNT OF MOLD SPORES (AND THEY ARE EVERYWHERE, EVEN BEING DROPPED FROM THE SKY VIA CHEMTRAILS). I FEEL AS THOUGH I AM IN A NIGHTMARISH EXISTENCE. I CAN'T EVEN GO INTO WALMART WITHOUT SUFFERING THE EFFECTS OF THE SPORES COMING OUT OF THE DUCTWORK. I HAVE MOVED 16 TIMES IN 4 YEARS TRYING TO ESCAPE THE RAVAGES OF MOLD (I LIVE IN A RAINY ENVIRONMENT) TO FIND A PLACE TO BREATHE SAFE FRESH AIR. AS I AM RESEARCHING EVERYTHING I CAN GET MY HANDS ON (AND YES, I TALKED TO DR. RICHIE SHOEMAKER WHO IS THE PIONEER IN RESEARCH CONCERNING MY MALADY). HIS TRAINED DRS. ARE FAR OUT OF MY AREA (PITTSBURGH, PA.) & IT'S NOT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THEM. ANY KNOWLEDGE YOU COULD IMPART TO ME WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. YOU HAVE MUCH WISDOM & EDUCATION IN MANY AREAS IF MEDICINE & NATUROPATHY. THANK YOU FOR CARING & SHARING WITH US SUFFERERS OF AN IMBALANCED BODILY SYSTEM. I AM GRATEFUL FOR YOUR KINDNESS. GOD BLESS YOU & YOUR FAMILY. 💝

[@jamiet9132]

im doing keto now for 4+ weeks and i feel remarkably better but im not loosing like i thought i would... could MTHFR mutation be slowing me down?

[@SeekingHimDailyBlog]

I just found out fron my functional medicine Dr that i have MTFHR C677T from both parents. She started me on a multi vitamin, methylfolate, b-12. She doesn't know much, and if i want to know more she wants to charge me and i don't have alot of money. Is this the correct protocal? I just started your Dirty genes book.

[@DrBenLynch]

Hi Alisha - having Dirty Genes book in your hands will answer your question ;) - and it is the best place to start. Starting with supplements seems like the best first step but typically I've learned that we can do a lot without supplements - at least initially. This is explained in the Soak and Scrub area of the book. Enjoy it!

[@scifiaudious2]

not trying to sound crazy but.... there is definitely an interplay between folate and pathogens....what if there was a connection as to why rage is an issue ya know...anti-folate drugs.... thoughts?

[@midesti]

Thanks! I do have the MTHFR mutation (not the super bad one), and my doctor has recommended I take 15 mg/day. He even suggested I take 15 mg twice/day. I don't know about that. I'm going to drop down to 10 mg/day and see if I notice anything different. It seems like I keep getting conflicting recommendations on dosages, depending upon which website I'm reading. On another note, has anyone ever told you that you resemble Michael C. Hall from Dexter?

[@aneliadraganova3504]

I would allow myself to suggest you try taking Methylfolate lozenges or sublingual, and that starting with 400mcg daily and than gradually increasing the daily dose until you find the golden dose for you. Many doctors are recommending high doses of tablet or capsules of anything not giving a thought that 50 to 65% of any meds or supplements reaching stomach (lozenges and sublingual are hitting the blood stream right the way and in the dose taken) will be destroyed by hydrochloric acid (pH 1.5 to 3.5). Hope this helps

[@Kad6976x]

He does look like him. I thought that first thing