When to Test for Methylation Issues (Beyond Just MTHFR Genes) - Shelley Cavezza, PhD
Schedule a Discovery Call
Shelley Cavezza, PhD > Latest News & Articles > Functional Medicine > When to Test for Methylation Issues (Beyond Just MTHFR Genes)

When to Test for Methylation Issues (Beyond Just MTHFR Genes)

Should You Test Your Methylation Pathways? Looking Past MTHFR Alone
Functional Medicine and Nutrition Practitioner Sunshine Coast

Discover Why Comprehensive Methylation Testing Is Key to Uncovering Hidden Health Issues with Expert Functional Medicine and Nutrition Practitioner Shelley Cavezza, PhD

Introduction: The Importance of Methylation in Health

Fatigue that won’t budge, anxious restlessness, stubborn high homocysteine—even with a whole-food diet? Methylation might be your missing biochemical link. Methylation is a critical biochemical process supporting detoxification, neurotransmitter production, DNA repair and gene expression. While many know about MTHFR gene variants, they represent only one piece of this complex puzzle. Comprehensive methylation testing extends beyond MTHFR to reveal your full metabolic profile and potential vulnerabilities.

What Is Methylation and Why Does It Matter?

Methylation adds a methyl group to DNA, proteins and neurotransmitters, influencing gene activity and cellular function. Proper methylation is essential for:

  • Detoxification: Assisting liver and gut enzymes to neutralise toxins (thereby easing brain fog and skin flare-ups)

 

  • Neurotransmitter Synthesis: Regulating mood, cognition and motivation
  • DNA Repair & Gene Expression: Maintaining cellular integrity

Disruptions can contribute to chronic inflammation, mood disorders, cardiovascular risk and even some cancers.

Beyond MTHFR: Why Comprehensive Testing Is Necessary

A broader panel evaluates:

  • Additional Genetic Variants: Genes such as MTR, MTRR, CBS and BHMT plus COMT (neurotransmitter clearance) and FUT2 (vitamin-B12 absorption) also influence methylation pathways.
  • Biomarkers: Homocysteine, SAMe and SAH levels indicate how well your methylation cycle functions.
  • Nutrient Cofactors: Vitamin B12, folate and B6 levels are crucial for methylation; testing uncovers any deficiencies.

When Should You Consider Methylation Testing?

Think about testing if you have:

  1. Unexplained Chronic Health Issues. 
    • Recurrent miscarriages or hormone-related migraines.
    • Persistent fatigue resistant to usual interventions
    • Chronic inflammation or unexplained autoimmune symptoms
    • Difficulty with detoxification (e.g. headaches, skin issues)
  2. Mental Health Concerns
    • Depression, anxiety or other mood disorders
    • Brain fog or memory and concentration difficulties
  3. Cardiovascular & Metabolic Challenges
    • Elevated homocysteine levels linked to cardiovascular risk
    • Struggling with weight despite a healthy lifestyle
  4. Family History of Related Disorders
    • Genetic predispositions to heart disease, autoimmunity or neuropsychiatric conditions

How a Functional Medicine and Nutrition Approach Can Help

Comprehensive methylation testing provides a roadmap to tailor your plan. Data are only powerful when paired with phased, practitioner-guided action—remove roadblocks, replenish cofactors, then re-test to confirm progress. 

  • Map Cofactor Gaps: B2, molybdenum, zinc
  • Optimise Diet & Lifestyle: Personalised nutrition and stress-management strategies.
  • Personalise Supplementation: Methylated B-vitamins, antioxidants or adaptogens to support your cycle.

Take Control of Your Health

If methylation issues beyond MTHFR might be impacting you book a Discovery Call with Shelley Cavezza, PhD so you can move from trial-and-error supplements to a clear, personalised protocol. This is an exploratory conversation—not a consultation—to discuss whether advanced methylation testing and a tailored programme could benefit your health journey.

Empower Your Health Today
 Reach out to Functional Medicine and Nutrition Practitioner Shelley Cavezza, PhD on the Sunshine Coast to begin addressing the root causes of methylation dysfunction and unlock your full wellness potential.

Additional Resources

Contact Information

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult a healthcare professional before starting any new health programme. Individual genetic data are only one piece of your health picture.

«
»