MTHFR Gene

30 to 50% of the population carries some form of MTHFR gene mutation. The MTHFR enzyme converts folate or folic acid into methylfolate, the active form the body can use. MTHFR converts dietary folate into L-methylfolate. The C677T MTHFR variant reduces enzyme efficiency. MTHFR mutations range in severity, with some causing no meaningful impairment and others severely reducing the body's ability to produce usable methylfolate. MTHFR variants can significantly impair conversion of folic acid to L-methylfolate. People with MTHFR mutations can have B9 deficiency even when consuming folate-containing foods or folic acid supplements. MTHFR genetics are presented as a vulnerability whose clinical impact depends on diet, inflammation, stress, and other B-vitamin levels. The article states that MTHFR variants are associated with several psychiatric conditions. 23andMe can identify MTHFR gene variants and inform targeted supplementation decisions. The article argues that MTHFR testing is clinically important in treatment-resistant psychiatric illness.