Although high-dose methyl donor supplements can help patients with methylation deficits, some healthcare professionals may occasionally encounter patients with an intolerance to methylation donors. Patients with an intolerance to methyl donors can experience worsening symptoms as well as the appearance of neurological symptoms, regardless of their need for methylation support. Neurological symptoms may include, anxiety, depression, irritability, and brain fog, among other symptoms.
Intolerances to methyl donor supplements are not properly understood and further research studies are required to help determine the frequency and effects of these problems. It’s believed that the impaired metabolism of catecholamines through COMT and MAOA may play a role in the intolerance of methylation donors. Increased SAH is also believed to cause a variety of adverse effects.
Case 1.0: Methyl Donor Intolerance with COMT Polymorphism
A 31-year-old female diagnosed with a long-term panic disorder and a recent onset of agoraphobia demonstrated homozygous for COMT and MTHFR single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs, through genetic testing. Vanilmandelic acid, or VMA, and homovanillate, or HVA, urinary organic acids were found to be between low and low-normal, respectively, indicating poor clearance of norepinephrine and epinephrine. These catecholamines are catabolized through COMT methylation, and their poor clearance may increase anxiety symptoms. Her homocysteine levels, on the other hand, were normal which demonstrated that either the MTHFR SNP was still functional enough to maintain SAMe levels, or that increased oxidative stress was confounding the normal homocysteine finding by increasing transsulfuration of homocysteine for glutathione formation.
High-dose methylated folate and betaine supplements were recommended, however, the patient immediately reported experiencing aggravated symptoms. This may have occurred due to the increased production of SAMe from the combined effects of the supplementation. SAMe levels in the brain regulate the rate of epinephrine biosynthesis from norepinephrine through methylation, therefore, increased SAMe availability could have triggered increased epinephrine synthesis. The decreased clearance due to the COMT SNP could have been the underlying cause for the increased symptomatology. Replacing methylated folate with unmethylated folic acid, and the discontinuation of betaine supplements resulted in significant symptom improvement, including the resolution of agoraphobia. Case adapted with permission from Lord & Bralley, 2012, Case Illustration 11.1 p. 594.
Folic Acid Supplement Risks
Furthermore, fortification and standard folic acid supplementation are believed to increase the risks of developing neural tube defects, particularly at levels above 400 mcg/d of dietary folate equivalent units, or DFEs. Folic acid is a purely synthetic compound which must first be converted to tetrahydrofolate, or THF, by being cycled twice through the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, or DHFR, to be utilized in methylation. One cause of folic acid side-effects include elevated unmetabolized folic acid or UMFA.
Folic acid side-effects and restricted capacity of liver DHFR are believed to be the main problems in folic acid metabolism. One-time folic acid doses of 260 mcg or multiple folic acid doses of 100 mcg throughout the day have been demonstrated to cause detectable UMFA. People who regularly consume fortified foods, such as ready-to-eat cereals and fortified grains, are exposed to folic acid beyond the Tolerable Upper Limit of 1.0 mg/d, and with the utilization of multivitamin supplements, it may increase beyond that.
Folic acid from supplements is also much more easily absorbed than folate from foods. One DFE is equivalent to 1 mcg of dietary folate as compared to 0.6 mcg of folic acid from supplements taken with food or fortified foods. Therefore, 400 mcg of folic acid is equivalent to 667 mcg DFE. Research studies associate higher levels of folic acid intake with other side-effects. Dihydrofolate, or DHF, the intermediate metabolite in the conversion of folic acid to tetrahydrofolate and UMFA, can cause a variety of health issues.
DHF has been demonstrated to prevent thymidylate synthase and purine synthesis enzymes, which can affect DNA synthesis. DHF is also believed to restrict the production of the MTHFR enzyme, which can lead to a decrease in methionine synthesis and homocysteine clearance. A recent research study demonstrated that 5 mg/d of folic acid supplementation in infertile men demonstrated an unexpected reduction in sperm DNA methylation, similar to patients homozygous for the MTHFR C667T polymorphism.
Other research studies have also reported a connection between fortification and standard folic acid supplementation and colorectal cancer. According to the research studies, UMFA may actually metabolize through photo-catalysis into DNA-toxic products. A recent research study which evaluated the connection between UMFA and colorectal cancer diagnosis demonstrated a small positive association in men and individuals with the MTHFR C677T genotype, both heterozygous and homozygous.
However, the research studies demonstrated a small inverse association with women. Higher UMFA was also found to be associated with anemia in US seniors who consumed alcohol and reduced NK cell cytotoxicity in otherwise healthy postmenopausal women. Recent research studies looking at folate receptors in epithelial cancers demonstrated a high frequency of receptor FR-alpha which uptakes UMFA. It is believed that FR-alpha promotes tumor progression and reduces apoptosis through increased expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. Folic acid exposure to tumor cells in-vitro was demonstrated to enhance the progress of this process.
Methylation is a biochemical process required for cell division, DNA and RNA synthesis, gene expression, histamine clearance, detoxification, and cellular energy metabolism, among other essential functions. As important as methylation, however, many people are diagnosed with methylation deficits, which can cause a variety of health issues. Healthcare professionals recommend high-dose methyl donors to help treat methylation deficits. But, are we supplementing too much? Some patients may have an intolerance to methylation donors and they may experience side-effects, such as worsening symptoms or neurological symptoms.
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.
Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, discomfort, tingling sensations, and numbness, in the low back. The painful symptoms of sciatica can affect a person’s quality of life. Edgar M. Reyes was unable to walk or engage in his regular physical activities, and he was diagnosed with sciatica.
Dr. Jimenez, a doctor of chiropractic in El Paso, TX, has tremendously helped Mr. Reyes find relief from his painful symptoms. He expresses how much Dr. Jimenez has helped him with his sciatic nerve pain, and he highly recommends Dr. Jimenez and his staff as the non-surgical choice for sciatica and low back pain.
El Paso Back Clinic
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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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Flexibility is something that many people would like more of, but few know how to achieve it. You might find that improving your flexibility is easier than you think.
This is because flexibility training is often seen as difficult, painful, and time-consuming. It is also significantly underestimated. Why bother getting flexible if you aren�t an athlete or dancer? Why do regular people need to improve their flexibility? The answers to these questions may surprise you.
Why is flexibility important?
Flexibility is a critical component of keeping your body fit and healthy. Research shows that people who are more flexible are better able to reach their optimum fitness level.
It can also help to prevent injury and reduce your risk of conditions like arthritis and other chronic diseases. They also have a better range of motion and mobility as they age.
Muscles that are flexible have the potential to become stronger. This can help increase metabolism and improve fitness level.
A more flexible body can also carry out day to day activities easier and have less chance of injury. Blood flow is increased and circulation is improved which also helps to prevent chronic conditions like kidney disease and diabetes as well as heart disease.
Stretch for upper body flexibility
This upper body stretch also helps improve your posture. It is also great if you are primarily sedentary throughout the day, such as sitting at a desk for extended periods.
Stand or sit in a chair, back straight, chin level, feel slightly apart and knees soft.
Put your hands behind your head, elbows out, chin tucked.
Gently press your head forward to feel the stretch through your neck, shoulders, and upper back; hold for five seconds.
Tilt your head back so that your chin is pointing toward the ceiling.
Place the heels of your hands on your forehead and gently press to get a stretch through the front of the neck and the arms; hold for five seconds.
Bring your head to the start position, chin parallel to the floor, neck straight.
Put your right hand on the top of your head and gently press as if you are trying to touch your right ear to your right shoulder and feel the stretch along the left side of the neck and shoulder; hold for five seconds.
Put your left hand on the top of your head and gently press as if you are trying to touch your left ear to your left shoulder and feel the stretch along the right side of the neck and shoulder; hold for five seconds.
Raise your hands over your head and clasp your hands.
Stretch and lift your body, lengthening your spine.
Release your hands and bend to the right, using your right hand to grasp your left elbow and gently pull it to the right. Hold for five seconds.
Raise your hands over your head and clasp your hands. Stretch and lift your body, lengthening your spine.
Release your hands and bend to the left, using your left hand to grasp your right elbow and gently pull it to the left. Hold for five seconds.
Stretch for lower body flexibility
This is a great stretch for women who wear high heels or for cyclists and people who walk, run, or use an elliptical machine.
Sit on the floor with your legs straight in front of you, feet together, knees soft, and back straight.
Slowly bend your right knee and lean back if necessary, using your right arm as support behind you. Place your left hand under your left knee and flex your toes toward the ceiling, feeling the stretch through your calf. Hold for five seconds.
Stretch both legs out straight in front of you.
Slowly bend your left knee and lean back if necessary, using your left arm as support behind you. Place your right hand under your right knee and flex your toes toward the ceiling, feeling the stretch through your calf. Hold for five seconds.
Roll onto your back with your knees bent toward the ceiling and feet flat on the floor.
Gently bring your right knee to your chest, holding it with your hands to get a nice stretch. Hold for five minutes.
Return to the start position, on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
Gently bring your left knee to your chest, holding it with your hands to get a nice stretch. Hold for five minutes.
Return to the start position, on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
Stretch for flexibility in the back
This stretch is very good for low back pain.
Lie on your stomach keeping your legs straight, knees soft, and feet shoulder-width apart.
Place your hands under your shoulders, palms down on the floor and push your upper body up so that your back is curved with your lower body still on the floor. Tilt your head back for more stretch. Hold for 10 seconds.
Lower your upper body back to the mat and slowly roll over to your hands and knees.
Keep your knees shoulder width apart and your back straight.
While on your hands and knees, tuck your chin and round out your back, pushing it towards the ceiling, feel the stretch through your entire back. Hold for 10 seconds.
Return to the start position with your knees shoulder width apart and your back straight.
While on your hands and knees, lift your chin, stretching it upwards and drop your back so that your spine curves toward the floor. Hold for 10 seconds.
Return to the start position with your knees shoulder width apart and your back straight.
Folate deficiency and poor folate metabolism are associated with a variety of health issues, such as neural tube defects. Fortunately, the mandatory folic acid programs started by many developed countries over the last two decades have tremendously affected the prevalence of these health issues. The health benefits of utilizing folic acid supplements simply cannot be ignored.
Methylation deficits have also been associated with health issues like ADD/ADHD, allergies, addiction, anxiety, Alzheimer�s Disease, asthma, atherosclerosis, autism spectrum disorder, behavioral changes, bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue, chemical sensitivity, cleft palate, cancers, depression, diabetes, Downs syndrome, dementia, essential hypertension, fertility issues, fibromyalgia, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, Parkinson�s Disease, schizophrenia, and thyroid disease.
Methylation is an essential aspect of physiology. Healthcare professionals recognize that a person may develop methylation deficits in a variety of ways, including through nutrient deficiency, competition for methyl donor utilization, methylation inhibitors, genotype, and aging. Dr. Alex Jimenez, doctor of chiropractic, discusses how specific factors can eventually cause methylation deficits.
Nutrient Deficiency
Reduced levels of methyl donors caused by nutrient deficiency can ultimately affect both metabolic and DNA methylation activity in the human body. Many vital nutrients are involved in the process of methylation, which we will discuss in further detail below. However, the most frequently recognized nutrients which we can commonly be deficient in are folate and vitamin B12.
According to information from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, or NHANES, the average dietary intake of food-fortified folic acid and natural food folates in adults range from 454 to 652 mcg DFE per day, of which 190 mcg/d is estimated to develop from folic acid fortification, compared with a target RDA of 400 mcg/d DFE. These average folate levels may increase the risk of developing nutrient deficiency in several people. These include women of childbearing age and non-Hispanic black women.
People have started to demonstrate low levels of dietary folate intake, ranging from 200-350 mcg/d DFE, when removing sources of fortified foods from their diet, such as gluten-containing grains and processed breakfast cereals. Although healthcare professionals recommend people avoid processed and refined foods, especially to prevent triggering food sensitivities, it’s fundamental to increase natural sources of folate to achieve optimal intake levels and promote overall health and wellness in the population.
The average intake for vitamin B12 is estimated to be at 3.4 mcg/d, higher than the recommended 2.4 mcg/d RDA for a majority of adults. However, healthcare professionals understand that specific population groups are at higher risk of developing methylation deficits associated with nutrient deficiency. As we age, people’s ability to produce the gastric hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor necessary for vitamin B12 production can decrease. This can then lead to health issues which further limit gastric function.
Many patients that visit a doctor or functional medicine practitioner may also have conditions which can affect nutrient absorption and their functional status, including dysbiosis, small intestine bacterial overgrowth, altered transit time, Crohn�s disease, food allergies or sensitivities, and impaired thyroid function, among other health issues. These should be evaluated by the patient’s nutrient need.
While avoiding processed food-based diets is essential for optimal health and wellness, improperly-implemented whole-food diets can still have the potential to be imbalanced. Therefore, people should include foods that provide all of the necessary nutrients the human body required, including methylation nutrients. People should also check functional nutrient status through laboratory tests.
Competition for Methyl Donors
Methylation activity, such as high catecholamine turnover, histamine clearance, circulating estrogens, or detoxification, can decrease methyl donors. By way of instance, SAMe use for catecholamine biosynthesis and degradation increases during physiological and psychological stress, which can ultimately affect the availability of SAMe. In people who react to antigens, increased histamine activity can affect methyl donor levels.
L-Dopa drugs and/or medications are a common treatment in patients with Parkinson�s disease. L-Dopa metabolism occurs through COMT with SAMe as a cofactor to utilize its methyl group. Its use is associated with reduced plasma folate and elevated homocysteine. L-Dopa may affect the process of methylation which can remove heavy metals and other toxins that can be considered contributors to Parkinson’s disease, among other health issues.
Methylation Inhibitors
S-adenosyl homocysteine, or SAH, is a powerful competitive inhibitor of SAMe-dependent methyltransferases, including DNMT, which generally increases with hyperhomocysteinemia. The conversion of SAH to homocysteine is triggered by S-adenosyl homocysteine hydrolase, which is fully reversible and supports biosynthesis over hydrolysis. Therefore, an increased quantity of homocysteine can restrict the production of hydrolysis and promote the development of SAH, preventing SAMe-dependent methylation activity.
Genotype
Many enzymes and their corresponding genes play a role in methylation. However, many healthcare practitioners also include genotyping when evaluating their patients. Patients can order genetic profiling on their own and they are starting to bring that information to their doctors for evaluation. According to research studies, genotype can affect methylation status.
Frequency and Effects of MTHFR Polymorphisms
The most common MTHFR polymorphisms are C677T and A1298C. Some variations, such as the homozygote 677TT variants, can vary according to ethnicity and geography. Approximately 20 percent of these variations are reported in US Hispanics, Colombians and Amerindians in Brazil. While approximately 8 to 20 percent of these variations are reported in White populations in Europe, North America, and Australia. Approximately less than 2 percent of these variations are found in Black populations.
Meanwhile, the homozygote 1298CC variants can also vary according to ethnicity and geography. Approximately 7 to 12 percent of these variations are reported in White populations in North America and Europe. Approximately 4 to 5 percent of these variations are reported in Hispanics and approximately 1 to 4 percent of these variations are reported in Asians. Additional information is still required as to the dispersion of heterozygote genotypes, as well as that of compound genotypes, among population groups.
Moreover, variations in C667T polymorphisms may also be increasing. Research studies from Spain, by way of instance, demonstrated an increase of the C677T genotype in the post-folic acid-fortification era. Homozygous 667TT variants can have a 70 to 75 percent decrease in enzyme activity. Heterozygotes decrease 33 to 35 percent of enzyme activity. Homozygous 1298CC genotypes have a 39 percent decrease in enzyme activity, and heterozygotes have a 17 percent decrease in enzyme activity. Heterozygotes for both 667CT and 1298AC may also experience as much as a 52 percent decrease in enzyme activity, according to research studies.
Research studies have ultimately demonstrated that this change in enzyme activity can affect folate and homocysteine levels. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis reported a 16 percent decrease in erythrocyte folate levels for homozygous 677TT genotypes when compared with their wildtype 677CC counterparts and an 8 percent decrease for heterozygous 677CT genotypes. Red blood cell folate measurements include all the different folate vitamers, so we cannot exclude 5-mTHF, needed for homocysteine metabolism.
Aging
Aging can also affect DNA methylation, including global hypomethylation, with hypermethylation in normally unmethylated CpG areas, which may cause genomic instability. Maintaining proper methylation status through nutritional and lifestyle modifications are considered to be safe and effective, alternative treatment options that can help slow down the age-related decline in methylation.
DNA methylation is an epigenetic process which occurs when a methyl group triggers the function of genes and enzymes in DNA, ultimately impacting gene expression. Methyl groups can be directly delivered through dietary methyl donors, such as methionine, folate, betaine, and choline. However, low levels of methyl groups as well as methyl donors due to a variety of factors can cause methylation deficits. In this article, we discuss the causes for methylation deficits where we also provide smoothies and juices which can help promote methylation support.
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, there are several alternative treatment options you can try for yourself at home. As described above, however, supplementation for methylation support should be correctly 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 in a single serving. 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.
Can nutritional epigenetics influence how we age and our longevity? El Paso, Tx. Dr. Jimenez presents data on how nutrition can influence longevity and how we age.
Longevity or our length of life is dictated by complex factors which include our genetic blueprint, age, health, and environment. This includes nutrition.
Gene-nutrient interactions are, partly responsible for regulating metabolic processes that begin and develop conditions like obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
A mechanism of nutrient-gene interaction is the epigenetic involvement of inherited patterns of changes, that are maintained by other mechanisms in DNA, Fig. 1a
Although still not fully proven but on the right track was that the availability of folate improved the regeneration of the adult central nervous system after injury through an epigenetic mechanism.
Epigenetic Aging
During the last couple of years, we witnessed a remarkable increase in the number of studies addressing the relationship between epigenetic alterations and aging. Still in its infancy, and still focusing mainly on brain aging, this research clearly indicated that epigenetic mechanisms are not only responsible, in part, for the aging process but they are also dynamically related with memory formation and maintenance.
Penner MR, Roth TL, Barnes CA, Sweatt JD. An epigenetic hypothesis of aging-related cognitive dysfunction. Front Aging Neurosci 2010; 2:9.
The manipulation of the epigenome for memory improvement became possible through changes in histone acetylation.
The Link: Nutrition & Longevity
Research to complete the chain of nutrition to epigenetic changes to how we age is still ongoing.
Present knowledge of the epigenetic roles in nutrition having to do with longevity/aging relies on the structure of three components:
Nutritionally guided epigenetic modification
Age-related epigenetic changes
Comprehensive knowledge of both of these components
The first two are being developed quickly, but the third is the most demanding in terms of design, time, allocation, and cost. This takes more time. But technology/humanity is moving along at a quick pace, as well, because at the end of the day we all want to be healthy.
Therefore, Nutritional intervention, when applied at critical periods (e.g., embryonic and fetal development) is having a profound effect as to how the epigenome gets shaped.
When considering the beginning of chronic disease/s, being able to fight disease/s with food sounds like a win-win. If epigenetic/genomic nutrition can help in figuring out what we need to beat disease/s, then let’s go!
Family In Kitchen Making Morning Breakfast Together
Methyl donors, such as folate, vitamin B12, methionine, betaine or trimethylglycine, and choline, are fundamental for a variety of biochemical pathways which occur within a cell. Understanding how the human body utilizes methyl donors as well as what does methylation do in the human body can help people achieve overall health and wellness. Dr. Alex Jimenez, chiropractor, explains the essential functions of methylation on the cardiovascular, neurological, reproductive, and detoxification systems, among others.
How the Human Body Utilizes Methyl Donors
Cell division, DNA and RNA synthesis. The metabolism of folate is essential for both DNA and RNA synthesis because it is also frequently associated with the biosynthesis of purine nucleotides and thymidylate. Methyl donor deficiency can increase the risk for cytosine deamination into uracil which can elevate DNA strand breaks, fragmentation, apoptosis, and carcinogenesis.
Early CNS development. Folate deficiencies associated with genetic and environmental factors can increase the risk of neural tube defects. According to research studies, however, methylation can help improve early CNS development. National folic acid food fortification programs have been demonstrated to be successful at decreasing the risk of this condition in newborns.
Gene expression. DNA methylation is a fundamental epigenetic process which regulates gene expression. DNA methyltransferase, or DNMT, enzymes are in charge of attaching a methyl group to cytosine bases in CpG dinucleotides. Mammals introduce approximately 80 percent of CpG dinucleotides for gene expression. Elevated levels of methylation in gene promoter regions can generally cause repression. Methylation can either promote or repress expression. Research studies suggest that hypermethylation, or the increase in the methylation of cytosine and adenosine residues in DNA, is associated with the increased risk of cancer and other health issues.
Post-transcription modification. Methylation of post-transcription RNA and microRNA can help regulate microRNA translation and protein synthesis. Abnormal RNA methylation activity has been associated with a wide variety of health issues.
Immune cell differentiation. Methylation regulates the development of immune cells, including T cells and Th2 cytokine regulation.
Neurotransmitter biosynthesis and metabolism. Methylation through SAMe is an essential process in the metabolism and synthesis of biogenic amine neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and serotonin. Additionally, methylation is necessary for acetylcholine biosynthesis. Methylation can also regenerate tetrahydrobiopterin, a co-factor in biosynthetic pathways.
Histamine clearance. One biosynthetic pathway for histamine metabolism occurs through histamine N- methyltransferase, which needs the methyl donor SAMe. Low SAMe or altered enzyme activity can lead to an increase in histamine and clinical symptoms.
Detoxification. Together with glucuronidation, sulfuration, and acetylation, methylation is an essential pathway for the biotransformation of xenobiotics within phase II detoxification. Poor methylation activity can reduce the human body�s ability to detoxify, which can lead to toxicity-related health issues. DNA methylation also regulates Nrf2 signaling, known as the “master regulator of antioxidant defense�, a fundamental mechanism that regulates numerous phase II detoxification enzymes.
Hormone biotransformation. Methylation can help clear as well as regulate estrogens through COMT. If this process is interrupted, estrogen metabolites can increase the risk of oxidative DNA damage. Methylation is important because it can help support safe estrogen clearance, regulation, and even detoxification in patients with estrogen dominance or estrogen-receptor positive cancers.
Cellular energy metabolism. Methylation plays a fundamental role in mitochondrial or cellular energy metabolism through the biosynthesis of CoQ10, carnitine, and ATP. Cellular or mitochondrial energy metabolism can promote overall health and wellness.
Phospholipid synthesis. Methylation also plays an essential role in phospholipid synthesis. SAMe is required for the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a primary component in the cellular membrane as well as a precursor for acetylcholine, among others.
Myelination of peripheral nerves. Concentrations of SAMe deficiencies in the cerebrospinal fluids have been demonstrated to cause demyelination. DNA methylation can ultimately help improve and maintain the myelination of the peripheral nerves.
Methylation is one of the most fundamental metabolic functions of the human body and it ultimately depends on the correct function of a variety of proteins and enzymes. Methylation is the transfer of a methyl group into proteins, amino acids, enzymes, and DNA to regulate cell energy, genetic expression, and detoxification, among other essential processes. Poor methylation activity can cause a variety of health issues, including chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, among other health issues. Understanding what does methylation do in the human body can help significantly improve 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, there are several alternative treatment options you can try for yourself at home. As described above, however, supplementation for methylation support should be correctly 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 in a single serving. 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
alanced 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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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.
Frozen shoulder syndrome is one common condition that affects the joint, limiting mobility and causing pain. When something goes wrong, it can dramatically impact a person�s quality of life. The shoulder bears the brunt of a lot of work even in day to day activity. The joint itself is quite complex with a wide range of motion, and that ability can become compromised due to overuse, injury, or age. The goal of the chiropractor is to keep the shoulder moving naturally and ensuring that it is a pain-free. Chiropractic is an effective treatment that helps patients regain range of motion and decrease or eliminate their pain.
What is frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion of the shoulder joint. It can occur as a result of overuse or after an injury, but can also be caused by diabetes or other diseases or even stroke.
It happens when the tissues that surround the joint become stiff, and scar tissue begins to form in the area. Shoulder movements become painful and difficult. It typically has a gradual onset, then goes away just as slowly. It can take a year or longer for the condition to subside.
What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?
There are three stages of frozen shoulder and from onset to resolution. It develops gradually and subsides just as slowly with each stage lasting several months.
Stage 1 � Freezing Stage � The shoulder experiences pain during movement and the
Stage 2 � Frozen Stage � The shoulder is stiffer, but the pain may begin to decrease. However, using it becomes increasingly difficult.
Stage 3 � Thawing Stage � The shoulder begins to �loosen� and the range of motion starts to return.
Some patients may experience worsening pain at night which can lead to sleep problems.
What causes frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder often develops when the patient ceases regular use of the joint due to injury, pain, or a chronic health condition. There is no single cause of frozen shoulder; it can be caused by any problem involving the shoulder that prevents the patient from maintaining a full range of motion.
It can also happen when the capsule that encases the connective tissue of the shoulder becomes thick and tight. The movement of the shoulder joint is restricted, impacting its ability to move.
People who are 40 and older tend to be more at risk for frozen shoulder, and it occurs more often in women.
Patients who have had prolonged mobility of the shoulder or their shoulder has been completely immobilized are also at risk. These mobility issues may result from conditions including:
Broken Arm
Surgery recovery
Rotator cuff injury
Stroke
Certain diseases can also place patients in the high-risk category for frozen shoulder. Some disorders that may increase that risk includes:
Cardiovascular disease
Diabetes
Parkinson�s disease
Underactive thyroid
Tuberculosis
Overactive thyroid
How can chiropractic help frozen shoulder?
The primary treatment for frozen shoulder involves pain management and preserving the shoulder�s range of motion. Over the counter pain, relievers like NSAIDs and aspirin are often the first line of treatment. Physical therapy may also be used.
In situations where the symptoms persist, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. Doctors may recommend invasive remedies such as surgery and steroid injections.
However, chiropractic can treat the condition from onset through resolution. Even in instances where the symptoms persist, chiropractic can still be very effective. It can be as effective as more aggressive measures without drugs or invasive procedures. Regular chiropractic care can help return range of motion to the shoulder and return the patient�s quality of life.
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