Methylation and Homocysteine
Each cell of your body needs to produce numerous substances via complex
biochemical pathways. Methylation is a critical part of many of these pathways,
by which a 'methyl group' of atoms (CH3) is transfered from one molecule to
another. Examples of biochemical pathways dependent upon methylation include:
- production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin
- production of glutathione - one of the body's most important detoxification
chemicals.
Optimal methylation depends upon availability of (i) methyl-donating substances
and (ii) vitamins and minerals which act as cofactors, boosting the rate of the
reaction.
Methylation is so critical that the number of illness associated with faulty
methylation numbers over a hundred, including cardiovascular disease,
depression and Alzheimer's disease.
Testing Methylation: Homocysteine
Faulty methylation leads to a substance called homocysteine building up to high
levels in the body. Excess homocysteine in the blood is thus a marker for faulty
methylation, and a risk indicator for numerous illnesses. A laboratory test (which can be arranged at this practice)
can detect your level of homocysteine.