As mentioned in our previous article, doctors can use various clinical assessments to evaluate the methylation status of their patients. While no assessment method or technique can accurately demonstrate methylation, current assessments provide an understanding of methylation-related genetic polymorphisms, nutrient status, methylation-related neurotransmitters and neurotransmitter metabolites, amino acids, hormones and metabolites, oxidative stress, and detoxification load. Each of these processes and substances can ultimately help doctors and patients understand their methylation status and what this means for their overall health and wellness.
Understanding Methylation Status
Several assessment methods and techniques, such as measures utilized to determine DNA methylation status, are typically restricted to research studies and are not yet available to doctors. Until methylation status assessments become more widely available, further healthcare is still required to understand data, especially since conflicting outcome measures have been demonstrated in research studies based on various types of methodologies. Although methods and techniques, including research studies, have quickly started to evolve, patterns of DNA methylation status in humans across cells, tissues, age, populations, environmental factors such as nutrition and lifestyle modifications, and disease, have only just started to become more characterized by researchers and doctors.
It is fundamental that we focus on various of these indicators and that we become mindful of the limitations of our interpretations and their misunderstood factors. Plasma homocysteine, for example, can decrease as methylation activity increases, but, it can also decrease when oxidative stress levels increase, regardless of methylation activity improvements. However, as we�ve previously mentioned, only several SNPs have known, quantifiable changes in enzymatic function and their overall outcome measures on methylation remain unknown. Doctors must rely on various clinical assessments to evaluate the methylation status of their patients. In the following articles, we will continue to discuss methylation status assessment options available to many healthcare professionals.
Understanding Nutrient Status
Folate and vitamin B12 are some of the most well-known nutrients which play a primary role in methylation activity, but, there are a variety of other nutrients associated with methylation enzymes and pathways, either as substrates or cofactors, as demonstrated in Figure 4 above. There are various methods or techniques available for the assessment of nutrient status, as demonstrated in Table 2 below, including laboratory analytes and physical exam findings. Dietary intake assessment, through the evaluation of diet diaries, also provides nutrient intake date which can be a useful tool for evaluating nutrient inputs and as a basis for adjustment of nutrient intake. Many doctors routinely utilize nutrient intake evaluations together with laboratory and physical functional status assessments.
Research studies have demonstrated that DNA methylation can be affected by nutrient status. Increasing evidence has also found that methylation may change in response to both nutritional and environmental influences. Alterations in DNA methylation caused by nutrient status can lead to problems in gene expression, increasing the potential risk of disease. Nutrient status is fundamental when investigating epigenetic mechanisms. Understanding how important DNA methylation assessments based on nutrient status are can help patients regulate their overall health and wellness.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many doctors and functional medicine practitioners may recommend higher doses of methyl donors in several patients, however, further research studies are needed to determine the proper amount of methylation supplementation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly, Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download
* All the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
Truck driving can put serious stress on the body. Just spending hours behind the wheel can take its toll no matter what type of vehicle you are driving. When you factor in the shifting, steering, clutching, and constant monitoring that is required in a big truck, you have increased risk of neck, back, arm, hip, and leg pain.
If they drive a type of truck that requires loading, unloading, or tying down a load, the probability increases even more. Many drivers experience pain, difficulty in mobility, and decreased flexibility. This can impact how well they perform their job as well as how much they enjoy their downtime.
How Truck Driving Takes a Toll on the Body
Drivers spend a lot of time doing just that � driving. That is hard on the body in and of itself. With professional drivers, they do it every day for hours on end. Even local drivers who are home every night put in a lot of miles.
Often, drivers must also perform certain functions regarding what they are hauling. Some have to secure their load with straps and tie-downs, or have to handle heavy hoses and equipment to load and unload tankers.
Some drivers have to load and unload (known as �lumping�) their freight themselves. It can involve heavy lifting and repetitive movements. Loaded tanker trucks can be challenging to drive because of the slosh. Most big rigs require a lot of shifting. They may have to shift through 10, 15, or even 18 forward gears.
Team drivers have the added stress of being in a vehicle that is constantly in motion. Even while sleeping in the bunk, they can be subject to the constant vibrations and bouncing as the truck travels over the road. This can lead to impact trauma, often to the shoulder as the driver in the sleeper lays on his or her side. Roads that are poorly maintained can cause impact trauma to both the driver and the person in the bunk.
For all the physical exertion and exposure to a rough environment, though, drivers get very little exercise. They spend a lot of time sitting behind the wheel and making the same movements over and over.
This limited mobility can lead to structural problems like pain in the back, hip, knee, shoulder, arms, and legs. This is compounded by the fact that many prescription medications that are typically prescribed for these issues have side effects that can be dangerous for someone getting behind the wheel.
How Chiropractic can Help Truck Drivers
Chiropractic care provides truck drivers with a non-invasive, drug free way to treat injuries, manage conditions, and relieve pain. Regular chiropractic care can help correct postural habits that can expose the body to injury or move the body out of balance and the spine out of alignment. Often, it can identify emerging issues before they become a problem.
When a driver first visits a chiropractor�s office, he or she will go through a thorough check up and assessment to determine their needs and goals. The chiropractor may recommend certain lifestyle changes and show them some exercise they can do in the truck or while they are on the road as well as ways to minimize the effects of the activities their job requires.
Some of the larger truck stops are now offering drivers access to medical and chiropractic services which allows them to get treatment when they need it. Sometimes a driver is out for several weeks at a time and may not be able to get to their regular chiropractor for an adjustment. However, it is still a good idea to have a regular chiropractor at home and keep regular appointments so you can stay healthy and on the road.
18 Wheeler Accident Chiropractic Treatment El Paso, TX
April Hermosillo has achieved overall health and wellness by following proper nutrition and engaging in exercises/physical activities. As a regular fitness participant, April Hermosillo can experience low back pain which affects even her most basic tasks. April Hermosillo struggled with spine health issues and sciatica before receiving chiropractic care.
Dr. Alex Jimenez is a chiropractor in El Paso, TX who has helped April Hermosillo achieve pain relief so she can return to her everyday fitness routines. April Hermosillo describes how Dr. Jimenez has tremendously helped improve her overall symptoms. April Hermosillo highly recommends Dr. Alex Jimenez as the non-surgical choice for personalized spine and sciatica treatment and rehabilitation.
El Paso Back Clinic
We are blessed to present to you El Paso�s Premier Wellness & Injury Care Clinic.
As El Paso�s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately are focused on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities.
We want you to live a life filled with more energy, positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight and educated on how to maintain this way of life.
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Fred Foreman is a basketball coach who depends on his overall health and wellness to be able to engage in his everyday responsibilities. As a result, coach Foreman started the 6 Day Detox Program from Xymogen, designed to help renew and enhance the human body’s cleansing and detoxification capabilities.
Fred Foreman discusses his experience with the 6 Day Detox Program, describing the benefits he developed as well as the effort he had to implement, to support his overall health and wellness through the detox. Fred Foreman feels a great sense of fulfillment with the 6 Day Detox Program and he encourages other people, who also wish to improve their well-being, to detox their body. Coach Foreman highly recommends the 6 Day Detox Program as an alternative treatment choice for overall health and wellness.
Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic
We are blessed to present to you El Paso�s Premier Wellness & Injury Care Clinic.
As El Paso�s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately are focused on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities.
We want you to live a life filled with more energy, positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight and educated on how to maintain this way of life.
I assure you, I will only accept the best for you�
If you have enjoyed this video and we have helped you in any way, please feel free to subscribe and recommend us.
A herniated disc is a common spinal disc issue. The spine is a very intricate structure, and when one component fails to function correctly, it can affect the entire body, causing pain and loss of mobility.
Tiny bones, called vertebrae, are stacked on each other to form the spine. They are joined in such a way to facilitate movement, flexibility, and a wide range of motion. There are small, fluid-filled discs that rest between each vertebra, providing a cushion between the bones. When one of these discs becomes damaged, it can affect the surrounding nerves, causing pain and making movement difficult.
What is It?
A herniated disc is a common spinal condition that typically affects the cervical spine (neck region) or the lumbar spine (lower back), although it can occur in any part of the spine. Most often, a herniated disc happens at the L4 � L5 and the L5 � S1. This is because this portion of the spine, the lumbar region, bears the bulk of the body�s weight.
It is often referred to as a ruptured disc or slipped disc and occurs when the disc moves or slips out of place. It can also be the result of a disc that has a small tear and is leaking the jelly-like substance that is inside. This can put pressure on the surrounding nerves, causing pain and discomfort.
The first two stages are called incomplete herniations while the last two stages are called complete herniations.
Symptoms of a herniated disc may increase or worsen as the condition progresses although some patients do not experience any at all Typical symptoms include:
Pain in the affected area
Tingling
Numbness
Weakness
Leg or arm pain
Loss of reflex
Loss of mobility
Loss of flexibility
Decreased range of motion
What Causes It?
There are several causes. The most common are aging and degeneration, overuse, and normal wear and tear on the body.
A herniated disc resulting from an injury or trauma, such as a blow to the back, is less common, but it does happen. Because the back does bear most of the body�s weight, it can put a significant amount of pressure on the spine and discs. Over time, the discs may begin to weaken and a herniation can occur.
Injury or trauma that results in a herniation may include a car accident that involves sudden jerking, or incorrectly lifting heaving objects can put excessive pressure on the spine, causing it to herniate.
How is it Diagnosed?
A physical examination is usually the first step in diagnosing a herniated disc. The physician or chiropractor will examine the spine while the patient is standing, then while they are lying down. Depending on the severity and location of the herniation, they may note a decrease in spinal curvature.
Radicular pain will also be assessed, when the spine is unmoving, while in motion, and when pressure is applied. Other tests may also be administered. X-rays may also be taken, but an MRI is usually more accurate and provides greater detail.
What are the Treatments?
Medications may be recommended or prescribed, including NSAIDs, narcotics, muscle relaxers, and anticonvulsants. Some doctors may advise cortisone injections to reduce inflammation. Physical therapy may be recommended as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunctions with other treatments. Surgery for herniated discs is rare and usually reserved as a last resort option.
Chiropractic has been very effective in helping patients manage their pain and regain their mobility so they can return to their normal life. Therefore, it should be your first option for treatment before you go down the road with drugs or surgery.
Healthcare professionals can utilize a variety of clinical assessments to evaluate the methylation status of patients. However, there is no single assessment method or technique which can accurately demonstrate the complexity of methylation in the human body. Current assessments can help provide an understanding into methylation-related genetic polymorphisms, nutrient status, methylation-related neurotransmitters and neurotransmitter metabolites, amino acids, hormones and metabolites, oxidative stress, and detoxification load, all of which can also help provide the understanding of a patient’s methylation status.
Understanding Methylation Status
Some assessment methods and techniques, including measures to determine DNA methylation status, are generally limited to research studies and are not yet available to healthcare professionals. As DNA methylation status assessments become available, healthcare is necessary to understand data because conflicting outcome measures have been demonstrated in research studies based on a variety of methodologies while methylation is further evaluated. Moreover, although methods and techniques, as well as research studies, are quickly evolving, patterns of DNA methylation status in humans across cells, tissues, age, populations, environmental factors like nutrition and lifestyle modifications, and disease, are only just being characterized by healthcare professionals.
It is essential that we emphasize a variety of indicators and be mindful of the restrictions of our interpretations as well as their misunderstood factors. Plasma homocysteine, by way of instance, can decrease as methylation activity improves, however, it can also decrease when oxidative stress levels increase, independently of methylation activity improvements. But, as we�ve previously discussed, only a few SNPs have known, quantifiable changes in enzymatic function, and even then, their overall outcome measures on methylation are unknown. Healthcare professionals must depend on multiple clinical assessments to determine methylation health. In the following articles, we will discuss methylation status assessment options available to healthcare professionals.
Understanding Genetic Profiling
Genetic profiling can help provide some evidence of potential methylation status and risk of developing diseases. Several gene SNPs increase methylation activity, such as CBS, and several other gene SNPs may decrease methylation activity, such as MTHFR, BNMT, MTR, MTRR, and AHCY. However, understanding the overall outcome measures of gene SNPs is complicated to determine through polymorphisms and environmental factors. By way of instance, research studies have demonstrated that the MTHFR C677T polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder, (with an odds ratio = 1.42, 95% CI 1.09-1.85), however, similar research studies have also demonstrated that this risk can decrease through periconceptional folate or folic acid intake.
Furthermore, if a maternal MTHFR C677T polymorphism is combined with a CBS polymorphism, a lack of prenatal supplementation with B vitamins, and a fetal COMT polymorphism, the odds ratio for autism spectrum disorder can increase tremendously, (7.2, CI = 2.3�22.4; P=0.05). The risk of diseases associated with genotype is unfortunately rare because research studies on the combined outcome measures of gene SNPs are still very much in their early stages. In many circumstances, healthcare professionals will need to use careful clinical assessments to evaluate as well as to guide their treatments. The methylation-related genes presented in Table 1 below are frequently evaluated for SNPs. The outcome measures can help doctors understand patient methylation status.
A variety of methods and techniques are available to determine the methylation status of patients. However, the assessment of methylation status can still be challenging for many healthcare professionals. DNA methylation is characterized by the addition of a methyl group to DNA. Healthcare professionals must first understand the pros and cons of the variety of methods and techniques available to determine methylation status to allow them to make an informed choice when deciding which assessment will best suit their research study needs.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many doctors and functional medicine practitioners may recommend higher doses of methyl donors in several patients, however, further research studies are needed to determine the proper amount of methylation supplementation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly, Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download
* All the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
Dr. Alex Jimenez Explains Why Methylation Can Go Wrong
As previously discussed, many healthcare professionals have demonstrated potential concerns associated with folic acid and methyl-folate supplementation. Some risks of folic acid or other folate derivative supplements, such as commonly used alternatives like 5-mTHF and folinic acid, have become widely recognized and they aren’t frequently discussed. These diseases are described below.
Several of these diseases can usually be treated with vitamin B12 supplementation, respectively, and although fundamental, these are not the main focus of the article. However, we will continue to discuss whether or not the side-effects of folic acid supplementation, or aberrant DNA methylation activity, are a result of methylation gone wrong. Epidemiological data suggests an inverse association between folate status and risk of health issues. Research studies have demonstrated that excessive methylation may be harmful.
Diseases Caused by Aberrant Methylation
Aberrant methylation caused by folic acid supplementation is not explained by UMFA or DHF. Therefore, healthcare professionals cannot rule out the possibility of excessive or aberrant methylation as a contributing and/or underlying factor for health issues.
Cancer
Aberrant DNA methylation has been associated as a cause of a variety of cancers. Both loci-specific DNA hyper- and hypo-methylation has been demonstrated to occur in cancer cells, suggesting that both states can be distinguishing of tumorigenesis. Global DNA hypermethylation is also demonstrated in various cancer cells, as shown in Figure 2. The association between folic acid supplementation and colorectal cancer has been evaluated numerous times in research studies. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated inconsistent and inconclusive evidence on the association between folic acid on colorectal cancer risk.
However, these research studies may oversee important details about the type, dose, and effect of supplementation as well as the folate, methylation, and disease status of the patient. By way of instance, specific DNA methylation in patients with stage II and III colon cancer has been considerably associated with the increased risk of developing future as well as predicting overall survival (hazard ratio 2.9, 95% CI 1.5-5.8, P=0.002) and disease-free survival (hazard ratio 4.0, 95% CI 1.6-10.2, P=0.003). In another research study, a randomized, controlled trial evaluating the potential benefits of 1 mg/d of folic acid supplementation for the prevention of colorectal adenomas, researchers found that folic acid failed to reduce the risk of the disease. As a matter of fact, researchers found that the risks of colorectal adenoma and noncolorectal cancers, especially prostate cancer, actually increased considerably.
Folic acid intake on breast cancer has also been evaluated in various research studies and is widely considered controversial. By way of instance, in one observational research study, dietary supplementation with folic acid greater or equal to 400 mcg/d was associated with a 20 percent increase in the risk of breast cancer compared with those reporting no supplement intake. In contrast, according to a 2014 Cochrane systematic review, food-sourced folate has protective properties against cancer. A recently published retrospective analysis gathered data from 367,993 women to demonstrate that higher food folate intake is associated with a lower risk of sex-hormone receptor-negative breast cancer in premenopausal women. However, further research studies are still required.
The connection between folate and cancer has also been tremendously analyzed. In a research study of women with breast cancer (n=204) compared with controls (n=408), participants with the highest tertile of plasma folate (median 17 nmol/L) had the highest risk of ER?(-) breast cancer (odds ratio 2.67, CI 1.44�4.92, P=0.001). Several researchers had previously shown an increased risk in breast cancer specifically when the MTHFR C667T polymorphism was combined with high plasma folate levels, which may be a potential concern because patients who are diagnosed with this polymorphism are among the most frequent to take supplemental folates.
In another case-control research study of approximately 300 participants, it appeared that increased levels of serum folate promoted the progression of existing benign tumors, or polyps, into colorectal cancer, however, it also prevented carcinogenesis in healthy controls, leading researchers to determine that serum folate can have dual roles in the onset and progression of cancer. Additionally, recent research studies demonstrate potential dysregulation of one-carbon metabolism in cancer cells, specifically methionine uptake transporters, while increasing the serine-glycine biosynthesis pathway. These outcome measures may potentially explain the harmful effects of folic acid, as well as that of other forms of folate, where there is a prior history of cancer in participants.
We can�t know from these research studies what folate derivative plays the biggest role in these outcome measures, because serum folate demonstrates various folate vitamers, however, we do know that serum folate is largely made up of 5-MTHF, about 86.7% percent, with UMFA typically making up a much smaller amount, about 4.0 percent. Whether the effect of the smaller amount of UMFA is enough to cause the progression of pre-cancerous lesions or whether increased levels of 5-MTHF are also implicated, healthcare professionals have to determine which intervention to choose to present the least risk to the patient’s overall health and wellness.
Autoimmunity
Systemic sclerosis is a misunderstood autoimmune health issue characterized by endothelial injury, immune abnormalities, and fibrosis. It is believed to develop from epigenetic dysfunction in immune cells which trigger immune cell activation and proliferation. Variations in several epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Hypermethylation of specific genes, Fli-1, KLF5, and BMPRII, can ultimately reduce their anti-fibrotic effects. Conversely, the overexpression of immune cells CD40L, CD70, and CD11a, are also involved and have been associated with hypomethylation of their corresponding genes, among other functions.
The pathogenesis of other autoimmune conditions may also be influenced through methylation. IgG4-related autoimmune pancreatitis, or AIP, and other autoimmune-like phenotypes are associated with MST1, a serine/threonine kinase, deficiency in humans, which leads to T-cell immunodeficiency and hypergammaglobulinemia with autoantibody production. IgG4-related AIP patients who also exhibit extrapancreatic lesions demonstrate a considerable increase in the methylation of MST1 and decreased protein development, suggesting that this gene is regulated through methylation and may be associated to the underlying disease. Aberrant methylation, both hypo- and hyper, have also been shown in rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune thyroid diseases.
Allergy
We also found that researchers believe that environmental exposures which increased DNA methylation may also increase the risk for allergic disease by suppressing Th1 and T regulatory cell differentiation which would otherwise prevent the differentiation of allergy-promoting Th2 cells. In a research study of elderly men (n=704), minor increases, about 0.31 percent, in methylation at gene Alu repeat sequences have been considerably associated with prior sensitization to at least one allergen, raising the possibility that even small changes in epigenetic regulators might have considerable clinical effects. Hypermethylation at specific CpG sites is believed to be useful for differentiating clinically non-reactive and clinically reactive food-allergic phenotypes than serum IgE and skin prick testing.
Down Syndrome
In Down Syndrome, early-life downregulation of the TET family genes involved in DNA demethylation and downregulation of REST transcription factor expression and subsequent methylation of REST-vacant sites, are believed to be potential pathways leading to the global DNA hypermethylation associated with Down Syndrome. More details can be found in Figure 3 below.
Reasons to be Cautious
While the effects of methylated folate or folic acid cannot be conclusively determined from the research studies discussed above, there are enough unknowns to justify potential concerns. Research studies are ongoing and it is not yet clear how aggressive 5- MTHF, or other methylation supplementation, affects well-being or the progression of diseases. Data suggest that we should be cautious and focus on supporting the body�s own health and wellness for methylation balance rather than attempting to override them.
Metabolic and DNA methylation are complex in their regulation of gene expression. Epigenomic regulation also depends on many environmental inputs, including both nutritional and lifestyle modifications, which make up methylation activity regulation. A safer way to support methylation activity, especially over the longer term, is through food-based nutrients as well as food and lifestyle practices which have been demonstrated to promote favorable methylation activity and epigenetic imprints in patients with these diseases.
DNA methylation is a fundamental epigenetic mechanism which regulates gene expression, cell energy production, detoxification, and many other functions. Unfortunately, some people may experience methylation health issues which can affect overall health and wellness. Many health professionals may help treat these methylation problems with supplementation, however, research studies have demonstrated that supplementation can sometimes cause methylation to go wrong. Aberrant methylation can cause a variety of diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity, allergy, and down syndrome.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many doctors and functional medicine practitioners may recommend higher doses of methyl donors in several patients, however, further research studies are needed to determine the proper amount of methylation supplementation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
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