Dr. Alex Jimenez Discusses What to Eat to Improve DNA Methylation
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Methylation is a fundamental process which occurs in every cell of the human body. It is utilized to promote a variety of bodily processes, such as producing and regulating hormones and neurotransmitters, developing immune cells, and managing the detoxification of exogenous substances, as well as clearing histamine, among other essential processes. Methylation is also important for cellular renewal to help modify genetic expression.
By changing your diet and lifestyle you can optimize your DNA methylation to improve your overall health and wellness. If you have a methylation deficit, such as an altered MTHFR gene or increased homocysteine levels, you can improve your DNA methylation by eating a variety of healthy foods.
Methylation support can benefit many health issues, including; aging, pregnancy preparation, pregnancy lactation, prolonged strenuous physical activity, ADD/ADHD, addiction, allergies, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, asthma, atherosclerosis, autism, behavioral changes, bipolar disorder, cancer, chemical sensitivities, chronic fatigue, cleft palate, diabetes, dementia, depression, Down syndrome, hypertension, fertility problems, fibromyalgia, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, neural tube defects, neuropathy, ocular disease, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, and thyroid disease.
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What to Eat for Methylation Support
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The following articles will focus on what you can eat to promote methylation support. The utilization of supplements as well as drugs and/or medications to improve DNA methylation can cause a variety of undesirable side-effects if these are not monitored accordingly by healthcare professionals and patients alike. In part 1, we will demonstrate what you can eat to improve DNA methylation from the category of fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, legumes, and grains, as well as herbs and spices. Our ultimate goal is to help you achieve optimal methylation support.
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Fruits
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Fruits are an excellent source of nutrients which can provide a variety of methylation adaptogens. Fruits with a low-glycemic index, such as wild berries, have less sugar than their larger, commercially-produced counterparts.
The following list of fruits can promote methylation support while those in bold are especially high in methylation adaptogens, including; apples, apricots, avocado, bananas, blackberries, blackcurrant, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries, clementines, coconut, cranberries, elderberries, figs, gooseberries, grapefruit, grapes, guava, honeydew melon, kiwi, kumquat, lemons, limes, lychees, mandarins, mango, mulberries, nectarines, olives, oranges, papaya, passion fruit, peaches, pears, persimmon, pineapple, plums, pomegranate, quince, raspberries, rhubarb, strawberries, tamarind, tangerines, and watermelon.
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Vegetables
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Vegetables are a key component for methylation support because they provide many nutrients and flavonoids which are methylation adaptogens. Methylation adaptogens help regulate methylation status in the human body, particularly at our DNA level. These adaptogens have been demonstrated to prevent or reverse over-methylation as well as support healthy methylation activity. Moreover, dietary fiber is essential to promote a balanced microbiome as well as the efficient removal of toxins. The healthy microbes in our gut actually produce considerable amounts of methylation nutrients. But only when consuming a proper diet that includes fiber. Low-glycemic vegetables are an excellent source of fiber. Color variation will provide the most diverse amount of flavonoid methylation adaptogens.
The following list of vegetables can promote methylation support while those in bold are especially supportive of methylation activity, including; alfalfa sprouts, artichokes, arugula, asparagus, bamboo shoots, basil, beet leaves, beets, bok choy, broccoflower, broccoli, broccoli leaves, broccoli raab, rapini, broccoli sprouts, brussels sprouts, cabbage, capers, carrots, cauliflower, celeriac, celery, chicory, collard greens, daikon radish, dandelion greens, eggplant, endive, escarole, fennel, garlic, grape leaves, green beans, heart of palm, horseradish, jerusalem artichokes, jicama, kale, kohlrabi, lambsquarters, leeks, lettuces, mushrooms (all other), mustard greens, okra, olives, onions, parsnips, peppers, pumpkin, pumpkin Flower, purslane, radicchio, radish sprouts, radishes, rutabaga, scallion, sea vegetables (e.g. kelp, kombu, nori, bladderwrack, wakame), shallots, shiitake mushrooms, snap peas, snow peas, spinach, summer squash, sun-dried tomatoes, swiss chard, tomatillos, tomatoes, turnip greens, turnips, water chestnut, watercress, winter squash, yam, and zucchini.
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Nuts and Seeds
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Nuts and seeds are an important factor to improve DNA methylation. They are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and B vitamins as well as fiber and antioxidants. Raw, unprocessed nuts and seeds, with skins where appropriate (e.g. almonds), are more densely concentrated with antioxidants.
The following list of nuts and seeds can promote methylation support while those in bold are considered methylation superfoods, including; almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, hazelnuts, hemp seeds, macadamia nuts, pecans, pine nuts, poppy seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and walnuts.
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Legumes
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Legumes can be valuable sources of a variety of methylation-associated nutrients, such as magnesium, potassium, folate, choline, and sulfur. They are also an excellent source of fiber to support a healthy microbiome.
Healthcare professionals recommend that you soak and sprout your legumes before cooking to improve their digestibility and nutrient bioavailability. This also reduces leptin levels, which can be helpful for people with gut symptoms and/or worsened autoimmune symptoms. You can do this by soaking the legumes overnight in plenty of water, then drain, rinse, and return them to their container. Leave loosely covered with a clean tea towel between 6 to 24 hours until you see tiny sprout ends starting to appear. They are now ready to cook.
The following list of vegetables can promote methylation support while those in bold are especially supportive of methylation activity, including; adzuki beans, black beans, black lentils, black-eyed peas, brown lentils, cannellini beans, fava beans, garbanzo beans, great northern beans, green lentils, kidney beans, lima beans, mung beans, navy beans, pinto beans, red beans, red lentils, soy/soybeans (especially fermented varieties such as tempeh, miso, tamari, natto, pickled tofu), split peas, and turtle beans.
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Grains
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Grains can also be an excellent source of magnesium, B vitamins and chromium, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Some grains, such as oats, provide sulfur which can help decrease the depletion of methylation nutrients to support sulfur detoxification. Whole grains are also an excellent source of fiber. However, many individuals do not tolerate grains. Gluten-sensitivity or Celiac Disease, by way of instance, requires avoiding the consumption of grains with gluten, such as barley, bulgur, Kamut, regular oats, rye, spelt, and wheat. Grains, especially whole grains, also contain leptin, which some individuals may not tolerate. Moreover, the consumption of grains can make it difficult to control blood sugar levels.
If you are going to eat grains, always make sure to choose whole grains. Furthermore, decrease or completely avoid grains which have been ground into flour because the human body can absorb their glucose too rapidly when they have been milled. You can also soak your grains before cooking them to improve their digestibility and nutrient bioavailability. Some soaked grains, such as quinoa, can also be sprouted before cooking, to further improve their nutrient levels and help reduce their leptin content.
The following list of grains can promote methylation support while those in bold are especially good choices for methylation support, including; amaranth, barley, buckwheat, bulgur, corn, Kamut, millet, quinoa, oats, rice (basmati, bran, brown, wild), rye (dark rye), sorghum, spelt, tapioca, teff, and wheat.
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Herbs and Spices
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Herbs and spices are ultimately an important additional category of methylation adaptogens. As a matter of fact, they are extremely important and effective even in seemingly-small quantities. There are a variety of ways in which people can incorporate herbs and spices into their cooking, such as in marinades, rubs, dressings, drinks, and even sprinkled into and/or onto dishes.
The following list of herbs and spices can promote methylation support while those in bold are especially rich in methylation adaptogens, including; allspice, anise, basil, bay leaves, black pepper, caraway, cardamom, cayenne pepper, chamomile, chili, chives, cilantro (coriander leaves), cinnamon, cloves, coriander seeds, cumin, curry leaves, dill, fennel seeds, fenugreek, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, marjoram, methi, mint, mustard seeds, nigella seeds (black cumin), nutmeg, oregano, paprika, parsley, rosemary, sage, sumac, tarragon, thyme, turmeric, and vanilla bean.
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DNA methylation is a fundamental process in charge of a variety of essential bodily functions. Many individuals, however, can develop methylation activity deficits which can tremendously affect their overall health and wellness. Supplements and medicines can be utilized to help improve DNA methylations but these may often cause several undesirable side-effects, A balanced nutrition can help safely and effectively treat these deficits and improve methylation support. The purpose of the following articles is to easily demonstrate what you can eat to improve DNA methylation from a variety of different food groups. Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
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Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
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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!
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ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
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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.
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Many doctors and functional medicine practitioners can recommend nutritional advice and/or guidelines to help improve DNA methylation. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can ultimately help improve DNA methylation. In part 2 of this article, we will continue to discuss what you can eat to improve DNA methylation. 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
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Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
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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.
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Formulas for Methylation Support
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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.
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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.
As demonstrated in previous articles, research studies have determined that promoting methylation support with nutrition by following a diet food plan includes different nutrient needs and avoids factors which can negatively affect DNA methylation status and activity. A diet food plan for methylation support should be nutritionally replete, anti-inflammatory, low-glycemic, antioxidant-rich, and supportive of detoxification processes.
A balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, complete proteins, and whole grains can help provide enough nutrients to support optimal methylation. Moreover, superfoods, such as beets, spinach, sea vegetables, daikon radish, shiitake mushrooms, salmon, fish roe, whitefish, oysters, eggs, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds, provide increased levels of nutrients for DNA methylation. Organ meats, such as liver, are also good sources of nutrients, including vitamin B2, B3, B6, folate, choline, and betaine, to promote methylation support.
Following a diet food plan is essential to continue to achieve proper nutrient intake. Even “healthy” diets can be lacking in nutrients or they may fail to provide treatment nutrient levels if they are utilized incorrectly. Healthcare professionals can also recommend regular nutrient intake evaluations, especially in the early stages of following a diet food plan, to make any changes which may be required to optimize a patients methylation support and help promote overall health and wellness. The following menu plans (Table 9.1 and 9.2) offer guidelines of what patients can eat throughout their day to improve methylation through nutrition.
Menu Plan Samples for DNA Methylation
Evaluating Nutrients in Menu Plans
Both menu plan samples provided above demonstrate a wide variety of nutrients which are ultimately essential for DNA methylation status and activity (Table 14). Doctors and functional medicine practitioners may also recommend regular nutrient intake evaluations on patients following a long-term, diet food plan to make sure that patients are able to maintain appropriate levels of nutrient intake throughout the treatment. It’s essential for patients to communicate accordingly with their healthcare professionals so they can customize their diet food plan as necessary.
Supplements and medications used to promote methylation support may often cause side-effects if they’re not managed accordingly by doctors and functional medicine practitioners. A diet food plan is a safe and effective alternative treatment option which can help promote methylation support without the side-effects of supplements and medications. In addition, a qualified doctor and functional medicine practitioner can customize a patient’s diet food plan and provide advice and guidelines to help promote overall health and wellness. Menu plan samples, such as those provided in the article, are several examples of a diet food plan which can help improve methylation status and activity. 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 can recommend nutritional advice and/or guidelines to help improve DNA methylation. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can ultimately help improve DNA methylation. Following menu plans or samples can promote methylation support. 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.
According to research studies, methylation support through nutrition involves using a diet food plan which includes different nutrient needs and avoids factors that can negatively affect DNA methylation. A diet food plan for methylation support should be nutritionally replete, anti-inflammatory, low-glycemic, antioxidant-rich, and supportive of detoxification processes.
A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, complete proteins, and whole grains provides enough nutrients for methylation. Superfoods, such as beets, spinach, sea vegetables, daikon radish, shiitake mushrooms, salmon, fish roe, whitefish, oysters, eggs, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds, provide increased levels of nutrients for DNA methylation. Organ meats, such as liver, are also good sources of nutrients, including vitamin B2, B3, B6, folate, choline, and betaine.
Nutrition for DNA Methylation
Bioactive chemicals and substances in food can affect DNA methylation, which generally appear to be site-selective and dose-dependent. By way of instance, phytochemicals like selenium have been demonstrated to limit the production of DNMT enzymes. These include compounds found in plant foods, such as apigenin, betanin, biochanin A, caffeic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, coumaric acid, curcumin, cyanidin, daidzein, ellagic acid, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin, epigallocatechin 3-gallate or EGCG, galangin, genistein, hesperidin, luteolin, lycopene, myricetin, naringenin, quercetin, resveratrol, rosmarinic acid, and sulforaphane.
One of the processes affecting the anti-cancer benefits of compounds, such as genistein, anthocyanins and green tea polyphenols, includes the selective de-methylation of the promoter regions in tumor suppressor genes. Bioactive chemicals and substances in food have been demonstrated to regulate gene expression in processes, such as Phase I and Phase II detoxification. Moreover, including whole, colorful, and varied plant foods in the diet may help benefit nutrient status, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects, as well as DNA methylation and epigenetic expression.
Oxidative stress can be further reduced in the diet by avoiding food preparation techniques that promote the development of pro-oxidative advanced glycation end products. Advanced glycation end products develop when animal-derived foods are cooked in high, dry heat. Their development can also be tremendously reduced by cooking at lower heats with moisture. Proper hydration is also an important factor in reducing oxidative stress. Phytonutrients are fundamental because of their function as beneficial enzyme regulators as well as powerful antioxidants.
Calorie restriction may frequently be recommended because it is believed to slow or reverse the age-related decline in global DNA methylation. Calorie restriction has also been demonstrated to help regulate the methylation of genes associated with diseases like cancer. Together with a low carbohydrate diet, an extended night-time fast, such as by finishing all food intake by 7 pm, can trigger the production of ?-hydroxybutyrate, an important ketone body which may ultimately have protective effects on the epigenome and may provide considerable anti-inflammatory effects.
While doctors and functional medicine practitioners can commonly utilize short-term, targeted ketogenic diets due to their anti-inflammatory and weight loss results, it should be noted that a full ketogenic diet, although recommended as an effective treatment for epilepsy and certain cancers, may not be suitable for long-term methylation support due to the restriction on amino acid intake that can decrease overall methionine status. Furthermore, fortified grains should be reduced or eliminated, especially if methyl donors are not tolerated. Alcohol is inadvisable because it produces unfavorable DNA methylation patterns which may interfere with SAMe activity and prevents folate metabolism through MTR enzymes.
Further details of the diet food plan for methylation support is demonstrated in Table 12 below, which shows what foods to include, and what foods to exclude to ultimately help improve DNA methylation status and activity. Bolded foods are especially notable for their contribution to methylation-associated nutrients. Bolded and capitalized foods are the most significant contributors to methylation-associated nutrients. The following case discusses how a combination of diet, supplements, and lifestyle habits can help decrease homocysteine and improve overall health and wellness.
Case 2.0: Lowering Homocysteine with a Combination of Diet, Supplements, and Lifestyle Habits
Susan described feeling healthy until she gave birth to her first child. felt that she had been healthy up until having her first child. Now postmenopausal at age 57, she was currently diagnosed with latent autoimmune diabetes of adults, or LADA, and Hashimoto�s thyroiditis. Her blood glucose was 335 ng/dL, with an HbA1C of 12.1. Susan’s treatment was multi-faceted, customized to address the various underlying factors which were associated with these health issues, among other common concerns.
Her initial program included a low carbohydrate, anti-inflammatory diet and micronutrient for gut repair, detoxification, and blood sugar control. A modest methyl donor prescription included 400 mcg 5- mTHF and 1000 mcg methyl-B12. At two months, Susan�s blood sugar was 108. However, her homocysteine was 14.0. She was also characterized as heterozygous for both the MTHFR 677 and 1298 mutations. These findings helped healthcare professionals develop diet food plans for methylation support. Methyl donor prescription was modestly increased to 800 mcg 5-mTHF and 5000 mcg methylcobalamin.
Susan started a gluten-free, dairy-free, diet food plan which also addressed her ongoing needs for blood sugar control, curbing inflammation, and balancing immune function. This helped Susan emphasize foods rich in methylation nutrients, such as leafy greens, beets, daikon, shiitake, spinach, seeds, and high-quality protein. One of the main challenges for Susan was her frequent business travels to Asia. Careful advice and guidelines for navigating restaurant food as well as dry food supplies to take with her for meal replacements and snacks as needed, helped her continue to follow the diet food plan. Guidance for reducing mercury exposure in food, as her mercury levels were initially too high and she did have remaining amalgams which also contributed to that result, and participating in �clean� living and stress management techniques, promoted her diet food plan.
Four months after her evaluation, her lab tests demonstrated remarkable results. Her fasting blood glucose went down to 82 and her homocysteine is at 7.1. Susan reports feeling very well and is motivated to continue following the diet food plan as well as following through with the recommendations the healthcare professionals recommended to her.
Following a diet food plan is fundamental to continue to ensure desired levels of nutrient intake. Even “healthy” diets can be lacking in nutrients or they may fail to achieve enough treatment nutrient levels if they are utilized incorrectly. Healthcare professionals also recommend regular nutrient intake evaluations, especially in the early stages of following a diet food plan, to make any adjustments which may be needed to optimize a patients methylation support and help promote overall health and wellness.
As previously discussed in other articles, supplements and medications can be utilized to help improve DNA methylation, however, these may often cause a variety of side-effects if they’re not monitored carefully by healthcare professionals and patients. The use of a diet food plan is a safe and effective alternative which can help promote methylation support naturally without the side-effects of supplements and medications. In addition, a qualified doctor and functional medicine practitioner can customize a patient’s diet food plan and provide advice and guidelines to help promote 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 can recommend nutritional advice and/or guidelines to help improve DNA methylation. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can ultimately help improve DNA methylation. 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.
https://youtu.be/Pdn9FEoUjMA
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.
Research has given us even more reasons to eat our veggies. Several studies have revealed that certain types of vegetables, specifically those known as cruciferous vegetables, have properties that could make them useful in preventing cancer.
What are Cruciferous Vegetables?
Some of the crunchiest, tastiest vegetables belong to the Cruciferae family. Typically cool weather vegetables, they are most notably characterized by four petal flowers somewhat resembling a cross.
These flower buds or the leaves are the parts of these plants that are most often consumed. However, the seeds or roots of some of these vegetables are also edible. Incorporating some of these cruciferous vegetables into your diet may help lower your risk for cancer:
Broccoli
Cabbage
Wasabi
Collard greens
Bok choi
Brussels sprout
Arugula
Cauliflower
Mustard (leaves and seeds)
Turnips
Horseradish
Rutabaga
Kale
Radish
Watercress
What is the Link Between Cruciferous Vegetables and Cancer?
Cruciferous vegetables are packed with nutrients that are believed to lower a person�s risk for several types of cancers, including prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer. This includes the carotenoids zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-carotene as well as folate and vitamins C, E, and K. They are also rich in minerals and an excellent source of fiber which is well known for preventing colorectal cancer.
This group of vegetables is also a good dietary source of glucosinolates which also has cancer-fighting properties. When intact, the glucosinolates are not effective, but when they are broken down through chewing, processing, and pests, they then make contact with the myrosinase enzyme and initiate a process that releases specific chemicals that can prevent cancer.
How Cruciferous Vegetables Prevent Cancer
There are three primary ways that cruciferous vegetables can prevent cancer. Researchers have found substantial evidence that shows when they are part of a healthy, clean, low-fat diet, a person�s risk of cancer can be decreased.
Glucosinolates � These are chemicals that contain sulfur and are present in all cruciferous vegetables, giving them their trademark bitter flavor and pungent aroma. When this substance is broken down by chewing, preparation, or digestion, it forms certain compounds (indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane) that scientists have identified as having �anticancer properties.� They do this by impeding the development or growth of cancer. Studies have looked at this effect on mice and rats and found that it is particularly useful in specific organs. Researchers are also looking at other ways the substances can prevent cancer. When working in the body, they:
Have anti-inflammatory properties
Aid in preventing DNA damage to cells
Inhibit the formation of blood vessels in tumors
Are antibacterial and antiviral
Inhibit the migration of tumor cells, thus halting metastasis
Cause cancerous cells to die
Aid in causing carcinogens to become inactiveBioactive components � Some studies have shown that the bioactive components of these veggies can affect the biomarkers of processes related to cancer in the human body such as decreasing abnormal cell growth. Genetic encoding of glutathione S-transferase � Glutathione S-transferase is an enzyme that helps the body metabolize and eliminate isothiocyanates. This is important because isothiocyanates prevent the activation of carcinogens, increase the speed at which the carcinogens are removed from the body, and counteract the dangerous effects of active carcinogens.
Best Ways to Consume Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are at their most nutritious and have the greatest cancer-fighting properties when they are raw. When the vegetables are chopped and chewed they release the most cancer-fighting chemicals. Likewise, when they are cooked, they lose a great deal of those properties. Steaming or cooking the vegetables very lightly for less than 5 minutes will allow them to retain some of those cancer-fighting properties.
Most people now acknowledge just how bad sugar is. The problem is, many are not willing to give it up. The evidence is clear though, over the last three decades chronic disease like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease have grown exponentially in occurrences that correlate strongly with Americans� ever-increasing intake of sugar.
But while this may not be new information, people are still unwilling to make the changes necessary � even with the threat of poor or worsening health (and even death) hanging over their heads.
One of the problems is that it is very difficult to get away from. Pick up almost any product on your grocery store shelves and read the ingredients. Sugar is there most of the time.
It is found in most processed foods including spaghetti sauce, salad dressings, dried fruit, fruit juices, even so-called �healthy� foods like frozen quinoa blends and �diet� frozen dinners. Sugar is everywhere and people are consuming it without even realizing that they are doing so.
Sugar is Addictive
Again, this is not new information, but many people don�t realize just how addictive sugar really is. One research article compared sugar addiction to drug addiction. The authors even went so far as to say sugar is as addictive as cocaine (or more so).
There is strong evidence to support this; sugar does affect a person at the neurobiological level. It activates the brain�s reward center, similar to what drugs do. Regular exposure provokes cravings similar to drug addiction and withdrawal symptoms when it is stopped.
The real problem here is that it is 1) legal, and 2) available for anyone to purchase- even children. There is a huge push to market sugar to children through heavily sugared cereals, drinks, and snack foods.
The children want it because they saw it on TV, the parents buy it, and the children end up cognitively impaired, obese, and chronically ill. It�s time to start connecting the dots and making significant changes in not only what we eat, but what we feed our children.
But Why is Sugar so Bad?
In its pure form, right out of the sugar cane, the juice has nutritional properties. However, all of that nutrition is destroyed when it is processed and refined as sugar (even “raw,” turbinado, and other forms – it’s still sugar). It becomes something that may be edible but isn�t really food. It is just a substance with absolutely no nutritional value � but lots of potential for damage.
The moment sugar enters your bloodstream your body begins secreting insulin. Insulin is produced in the pancreas and its function is to regulate sugar in the blood, to keep it balanced. When you overwhelm your body with sugar it keeps producing more and more insulin. A diet that is high in sugar can result in insulin resistance which can lead to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other dangerous conditions.
The more sugar you consume, the harder your body has to work to process it. It gets stored in the liver, leading to a fatty, enlarged liver, high glucose levels, and even affect the function of your organs including your kidneys. If you have conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, the risk of damage to your organs is increased even more.
High glucose levels have also been linked to impaired cognitive function, loss of memory, depression, and anxiety as well as an increased risk of dementia. It can cause difficulty in concentration and the inability to focus or stay on task.
The solution here is to avoid sugar or make low sugar choices. Read labels! Take the time to think about what you are putting into your body and how it will affect you. If you make a conscious effort to reduce your sugar intake, over time your body will stop craving it.
*Detox Your Body* | Detox Doctor | El Paso, TX (2019)
Healthcare professionals can use several clinical assessments to examine the methylation status of their patients. But, there is not one type of assessment method or technique that can accurately show the complexity of methylation in the human body. Current assessments can help offer an understanding for methylation-related genetic polymorphisms, nutrient status, methylation-related neurotransmitters and neurotransmitter metabolites, amino acids, hormones and metabolites, oxidative stress, and detoxification load. The majority of these processes and substances can also help offer an understanding of a patient’s overall methylation status.
Understanding Methylation Status
Various assessment methods and techniques, such as measures used to determine DNA methylation status, are usually limited to research studies and are not yet available to healthcare professionals. As DNA methylation status assessments become more available, treatment is important to understand data since conflicting outcome measures have been found in research studies based on several methodologies as methylation is further examined. Furthermore, 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 such as nutrition and lifestyle modifications, and disease, are only just being recognized by a majority of healthcare professionals.
It is essential that we emphasize several of these indicators and be mindful of the limitations of our interpretations as well as their misunderstood factors. Plasma homocysteine, for example, can decrease as methylation activity increases, but, it can also decrease when oxidative stress levels increase, independently if methylation activity increases 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 rely on a variety of clinical assessments to determine methylation health and wellness. In the following articles, we will discuss several methylation status clinical assessment options available to healthcare professionals.
Understanding Methylation Metabolites
To understand how DNA methylation status can be measured through the various assessment methods and techniques previously discussed, we must first understand how methylation metabolites influence methylation status. As demonstrated in Table 3, several laboratory-assessed metabolites are used in the assessment of methylation status. These have been recorded as follows.
Understanding Nutrient Assimilation Capability
In the previous article, we also discussed how nutrient status can depend on several factors. Although optimal nutrient status begins with the food we eat, it is through the process of digestion, absorption, transport, utilization, and metabolism of each nutrient which must function together to promote the necessary effect. Two of the most common problems occur in the process of digestion and absorption. Healthcare practitioners utilizing an MDL program may also examine and correct gastric function, pancreatic function, intestinal dysbiosis, intestinal permeability, food sensitivities, and malabsorption issues. The majority of these processes and substances can ultimately affect the absorption of essential nutrients necessary for DNA methylation status and activity.
Several methods and techniques have become widely available to healthcare professionals in order to show the DNA methylation status of patients. DNA methylation is identified by the combination of a methyl group to DNA. Healthcare professionals must first understand the good and the bad of these various methods and techniques which have become widely available to show methylation status and to allow them to make an informed choice when deciding which assessment will best suit their research study needs and the overall health and wellness of the patient.
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
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.
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