WHAT IS METHYLATION?

Methylation is a biochemical process that is responsible for almost all of our body’s systems. It is essential in repairing our DNA every day and in controlling homocysteine levels which can damage our blood vessels. It helps with detoxification of toxins and keeps our moods “happy” while keeping a check on any inflammation within our bodies.

As I stated in an earlier article, Vitamin B is essential in keeping the process of methylation ongoing every day. Lack of it will force it to break down creating catastrophic results. It’s been noted that birth defects, diabetes, depression and dementia are just some of the areas that can be affected when methylation breaks down. It can also put us at a higher risk for cardiovascular problems.

What can we do to help avoid these medical problems??? First, make sure your B supplements are taken on a daily basis. Eating plenty of leafy dark greens, fruit, a variety of beans, whole grains, egg yolks, meat, and fish should help balance your intake of Vitamin B. My family enjoys eating spinach, escarole, swiss chard and kale weekly. You can put them in fresh salads, soups, or cook them with garlic, red & black pepper, chopped onions, and saute in olive oil. Adding some bacon, chicken, chick peas or mashed potatoes works well too!!!

Almonds and walnuts can be included in your diet, too. I love putting them in my salad or eating a small handful when I feel like snacking. Brazil nuts help provide selenium which is vital in working with vitamin E to protect our heart, lungs and liver functioning.

Make sure you read your vitamin and supplement labels to see if there is a form of “methyl” listed on it.
Try avoiding too much sugar and animal fat in your diet which could help increase your homocysteine level. Those of us with malabsorption problems may have problems with absorbing various nutrients.

You might want to try adding enzymes into your diet to help with the breakdown of foods and supplements. Taking probiotics and eating yogurt may help with stomach problems as well. Vitamin B-12 (methylcobalomin) might have problems being absorbed due to lack of stomach acid. You may want to discuss this with your doctor. Blood work will give you an idea as to where your levels are at.
Also don’t forget to take antioxidants, folic acid (folate), magnesium and zinc which help with methylation.

Be good to your body and it will be good to you!!!!!!