730. MTHFR: What It Is and Why It's Messing With Your Health

The Female Health Solution Podcast

Let’s talk about something that gets tossed around a lot in the world of women’s health — MTHFR. You might have heard it mentioned in conversations about fatigue, fertility struggles, anxiety, or detox issues… but what is it really? And how do you know if it’s affecting you?

Let’s break it down together.

👉 So, What is MTHFR?

MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (say that three times fast). It’s an enzyme your body uses to process folate (vitamin B9) and regulate something called homocysteine, an amino acid linked to heart health.

But here’s where it gets even more important: This enzyme plays a key role in a process called methylation — which affects how your body:

• Makes new cells

• Detoxifies

• Repairs DNA

• Balances hormones

• Produces neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine

• Regulates your immune system …and so much more.

In short: it’s a big deal.

Do I Have It? How Can I Tell?

You might suspect you have an MTHFR gene variant if you experience things like:

• Chronic fatigue

• Brain fog

• Anxiety or depression

• Poor detox (you get super sensitive to wine, meds, caffeine)

• Hormone imbalances

• Fertility issues

• A history of miscarriages

• Trouble bouncing back from stress

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

There are two main variants:

• C677T — about 10–15% of the population has this one

• A1298C — much more common at 30–50%

You can be heterozygous (one copy) or homozygous (two copies, one from each parent), which increases the likelihood that methylation isn’t working optimally for you.

Should I Get Tested?

Yes — but here’s the thing: MTHFR is only one piece of the puzzle. There are multiple other genetic variants that affect methylation and detox pathways too — like COMT, MTR, MTRR, PEMT, CBS, TCN2 and more.

That’s why when I work with women 1:1, I always include a full genetic panel. It saves you time, energy, and frustration trying to guess what’s going on in your body.

Because when you see your unique genetic makeup, you can finally: ✅ Understand why you feel the way you do ✅ Stop wasting time on random supplements or protocols that don’t work for you ✅ Create a clear, targeted plan that matches your biology

👉 Can I Improve It With Lifestyle?

Yes — and this is where epigenetics comes in. Your genes are the cards you’re dealt, but how you play them matters.

• Prioritize restorative sleep

• Manage your stress

• Support detox pathways (hello, hydration and leafy greens)

• Take targeted supplements (not just random B vitamins!)

• Move your body in a way that feels good for you

And most importantly — know what you're working with.

If you’ve been chasing symptoms, switching supplements, and still feeling stuck — it’s time to stop guessing.

In my VIP 1:1 coaching program, we dive deep with: ✅ Full genetic testing, DUTCH testing, food sensitivity testing, cortisol testing, ✅ Hormone and gut health labs ✅ Custom supplement protocols ✅ Personalized nutrition and lifestyle coaching focused around the root cause ✅ Weekly support calls + direct access to me

Because you deserve a clear, science-backed plan built around your body. This program is my most in-depth, robust and hands on.

➡️ Click here to apply for my VIP 1:1 program today: https://drbethwestie.com/jumpstart-program/