As we get closer to studying for the June 2022 CNS exam, let’s start talking about some important aspects of the body that you’ll need to know in preparation for the exam.
The first topic - the methylation cycle.
Purpose
The methylation cycle plays an important role in various body systems. For instance, it’s important to the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and the immune system. The well-functioning methylation cycle is important for creating new DNA, cell repair, making new ATP (energy!), and regulate neurotransmitters (happy hormones like dopamine and serotonin).
It’s also an important part of the liver detoxification pathways. More specifically, it plays a role in Phase II liver detoxification. If the methylation cycle isn’t working properly, detoxification likely isn’t happening.
When the entire detoxification process doesn’t function properly, many imbalances can occur like hormone imbalances, problems metabolizing cortisol, and issues with healthy cholesterol levels.
Nutrients
There are various enzymes and nutrients involved in the methylation cycle. While B12 and folate tend to take the spotlight, there are more nutrients involved that are just as important as B12 and folate to the methylation cycle.
The most important are:
B2
B6
B12
Choline
These nutrients are used to ensure the enzymatic reactions in the methylation cycle work as they should.
Other important cofactors are amino acids like glycine and methionine. Betaine and iron can’t be overlooked here as well.
Supporting these foods through diet, healthy stomach acid production, and healthy gut function is ideal. However, many people have genetic alterations that impair this process even with the best diet and gut health in the world. And those people would need support through supplementation.
Symptoms
When this cycle doesn’t work. Meaning, it’s lacking important nutrients or enzymes to help it function, you get a whole host of symptoms. It’s important that you’re familiar with these symptoms so you can support your clients in ensuring their methylation cycle works in tip top shape!
Common symptoms include:
Fatigue
Headaches
Mood changes (anxiety, depression, etc)
Trouble sleeping
Changes in bowel habits
Increased allergies
This is not an exhaustive list.
Of course, these symptoms can also be attributed to so many other things happening inside the body. Like food sensitivities, stress, and the like.
Genova Diagnostics does have a test that can be run to assess the methylation cycle to help you better understand where malfunctions may be occurring. But, overtime, you’ll learn that most everyone needs methylation and liver support!
Sign up for our CNS test prep course here!