foods to avoid with comt mutation
Be forewarned: symptoms that you might associate with MTHFR malfunction may actually be due to COMT malfunction. While animal and cell studies show EGCG to be an inhibitor of COMT, studies in humans arent as clear. Dont we all need more hugs?! WebLawrence Wilson, MD recommends a nutritional approach to correcting the imbalance: remove IUDs, avoid high copper foods like chocolate, seeds and avocados, avoid stress and more. Additional nutrients required for the production of SAMe include folate, vitamin B2, and vitamin B12. Check your genetic data to see if you carry the fast, intermediate, or slow COMT polymorphism: COMT rs4680, Val158Met variant:One of the most studied variants of the COMT gene is rs4680, often referred to as Val158Met. This close linkage can be observed in the identical minor allele frequency (47%) associated with each SNP 16. In vitro research has shown that estrogenic plasticizers, such as bisphenol A (BPA), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) inhibit COMT activity, which leads to higher catecholamine levels.10 Mercury toxicity also inhibits COMT activity through inhibition of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a coenzyme for COMT.11. While apples are high in quercetin, it would take a ton of apples to reach the levels of quercetin that are used in studies to inhibit COMT. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase or MTHFR is another fairly common gene mutation that comes in two main variations: Its possible to have one or the other of these mutations or to inherit both. With practice, this can readily be accomplished. The Warrior or Worrier Gene COMT has been called the warrior or worrier gene based on the genotype. Thank you so much for this interesting and informative article! However, it is important to note that the interaction between genetics and behaviour is very complex. When youre stressed, cortisol causes extra activity in your body and creates more metabolites for your body to deal with. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. As magnesium is vital for a wide variety of functions it is not recommendedfor those carrying the G allele to try and reduce magnesium intake. While alterations in COMT activity undoubtedly have an effect there are many other factors which influence our behaviour 12. Ambers Natural Nutrition is not liable for how the information is used and cannot be held responsible or guarantee any results. This means you might experience higher than usual levels of these chemicals as well as the metabolites they help create. Treat the cause, right? Completes Clinical Trial with Graminex Flower, NEW Essential 8 Heart Metric Includes Sleep, estrogenic plasticizers, such as bisphenol A (BPA), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), Relationship Between Grittiness and Cognitive Performance, Making Way for the Vis: Treatment of Intractable Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Treating Chronic Pain: Focus on the Disability, Cannabis & the ECS: How Cannabinoids are Changing Health Care, Sepia: A Strong Remedy for Female Medicine, Eucalyptus Oil: A Possible Aid for Cancer Patients. Can you handle it, or do you get angry and anxious when things get too fast? You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Certain types of phytonutrients should be avoided as they contain catechols and will impact your COMT mutation. General COMT/MAO DOWN regulation symptoms may be: Difficult respiration shortness of breath, Asthma, Cardiovascular disorders hyper or hypotension, angina, bradycardia, ectopic beats, conduction issues, palpitations, tachycardia, vasoconstriction, arrhythmias, Spectrum disorders Autism, Aspergers, ADD/ADHD, Dementia issues, Other neurological disorders agitation, disorientation, impaired memory, aggression, assaultive, hallucinations, psychosis, Hormonal imbalances adrenal fatigue, cortisol imbalances, glucose imbalances, low Thyroid hormone conversion (T4 to T3), low LH and GH, elevated BUN. More difficult is finding a COMT activator. The body requires B vitamins, magnesium, and a well-functioning methylation pathway to make the methyl donor SAMe. 
Hall, K. T., Nelson, C. P., Davis, R. B., Buring, J. E., Kirsch, I., Mittleman, M. A., Loscalzo, J., Samani, N. J., Ridker, P. M., Kaptchuk, T. J., & Chasman, D. I.
If you have the COMT mutation, consider the adenosyl/hydroxy form of vitamin B12. Improving the health of your liver in this way will also improve the balance of your Detoxification circuit. This is NOT a never take this supplement list, but instead is an explanation of the circumstances that may cause interactions. WebFoods to avoid with a COMT mutation and foods to eat depend on a fast or slow COMT gene. 
Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, 157, 3144. While he didnt discover the gene or formulate L-methylfolate, theres no doubt that he (and other naturopathic physicians and functional medicine folks) have helped expand the role of genetic testing and methylfolate treatment in the United States. These NTs are responsible for planning, behavioral inhibitions, short-term memory, and stress reactions. The Warrior or Worrier Gene COMT has been called the warrior or worrier gene based on the genotype. If you have AFS and Detoxification circuit imbalances, your liver will benefit from this boost.
This can be really confusing, though. Check your genetic data to see if this could be at the root of your symptoms. Branched chain amino acids selectively promote cardiac growth at the end of the awake period. High estrogen levels can also cause a host of hormone-related symptoms. Here are some alternatives that are natural anti-inflammatories that dont interact with COMT. A higher risk of violence has been found in schizophrenics carrying the methionine allele (associated with high epinephrine).8 Both homozygous genotypes have been associated with PTSD, in contrast with the heterozygous genotype.9, Genetic inheritance should be only the first part of our analysis. Foods to avoid with slow COMT genes and how to support a slow COMT Catechin-containing foods and drinks such as chocolate, wine, coffee, and green tea are metabolized via the COMT gene, and these foods are best avoided if you have a slow COMT. Copious research has been conducted demonstrating associations of COMT variants with different conditions. Apathy is associated with a single-nucleotide polymorphism in a dopamine-related gene. The A/A (slow) genotype is found in about 25% of Caucasians and about 10% of Chinese population groups. Conners Clinic | Alternative Cancer Coaching, Minnesota, State and Website Practice Disclaimer, Digestive issues, nausea, vomiting, burning tongue, hiccups, muscle twitching, fidgeting, anxiety, nervousness, ADD-like, hyperactive, insomnia, increased drive, increased libido, mania, OCD, paranoia, Increased blood pressure, sweating, headaches, heart palpitations, anxiety, nervousness, pallor, nausea, Fatigue, weight gain, restlessness, anxiety, Bloating, headaches, moody, breast tenderness, Irritable, easily agitated, anxiety, quicker to anger. Genetic variants in the inflammatory-related genes can increase the risk of depression and anxiety. SAMe is available in supplement form, but it is also essential to help the body make its own SAMe by eating foods high in B vitamins, especially B12, folate, and B2. Sharing weight loss tips, gut health tips and whole food recipes that are gluten-free. hbspt.forms.create({ The COMT enzyme formed from the minor A allele has been reported as having approximately a 75% reduction in activity compared to those formed from the major G allele 5. This is good advice when you have AFS as well, as strenuous exercise can overwhelm your already overtaxed body and cause further adrenal fatigue and even an adrenal crash. However, theres a point at which she cant get rid of the chocolates as fast as theyre being made. Avoid high phosphorus foods like coffee, black tea, green tea, all sodas including seltzer and sparkling water, legumes (beans peas lentils peanuts, soy and soy sauce) Avoid yams, they too are high in phosphorus. Copyright 2020 Michael Lam, M.D. Youve helped change the face of functional medicine. A step by step guide is available on the Advanced Functional Medicine website to easily arrange your genome test. The Val158Met polymorphism in COMT gene and cancer risk: Role of endogenous and exogenous catechols. High estrogen levels due to a slow COMT gene can cause symptoms such as PMS, fibroids, breast tenderness, irregular menstrual periods, and mood swings. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified healthcare provider. Spinach, liver, asparagus, and brussels sprouts are among the foods with the highest amounts of folate per serving. Some of the best strategies for stress management are: Supporting your liver is one of the best things you can do when you have a COMT mutation. A defect in one or both of these genes (COMT is a family of genes) can INCREASE or DECREASE its function though usually it results in a DECREASE function with symptoms as I list below. 4. When you do begin to make changes, do so slowly and stop if you notice any adverse effects. Receive Insights from Dr Conners in Your Inbox! Your email address will not be published. A step by step guide is available on the Advanced Functional Medicine website to easily arrange your genome test. Colzato LS, van den Wildenberg WP, Hommel B. Cognitive control and the COMT Val158Met polymorphism: genetic modulation of videogame training and transfer to task-switching efficiency. It is recommended that you do your own research and consult your physician before making any decisions on what to do for your health and wellbeing. Copyright 2001-2023 Michael Lam, M.D. 
According to NutritionData, the best sources of folate per 100 g serving are: Beans and lentils (~50% RDI) Raw spinach (49% RDI) Asparagus (37% RDI) Romaine (Cos) lettuce (34% RDI) Broccoli (27% RDI) Avocado (20% RDI) Oranges/Mangoes (~10% RDI) 2 valine alleles show more cognitive flexibility5 and less anxiety compared to individuals carrying 2 methionine alleles.6 Epinephrine and other catecholamines are a bit tricky. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. 
WebCatechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is an enzyme which inactivates neurotransmitters such as dopamine and epinephrine in the brain, and is encoded for by the COMT gene 1. Even a perfect gene can have its expression hindered by toxins. Gelatin. Talk to your doctor and get tested for this mutation. WebBalancing COMT & MAO Pathway Variant issues. Genetic testing can also identify a COMT polymorphism. https://doi.org/10.1039/c7fo01576c 4. (2015). Mitaki S, Isomura M, Maniwa K, et al. Drug Metabolism Reviews, 49(1), 5683. WebCaffeine, which triggers a release of catechols in the body. Alcohol, since it can trigger a dopamine release in your body. Chronic headaches, sinus drainage, itchy hives, problems staying asleep, and heartburn all of these symptoms can be caused by the body not breaking down histamine very well. This includes COMT gene testing as well as MTHFR, MTRR, CBS, SOD2, VDR, PEMT, and many more. 
Someone with a dirty slow COMT gene is likely to feel anxious and moody. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-011-0189-0 JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 111(7), 684694. Again, usually a MOA and/or COMT defect causes episodes of DECREASE in gene function and episodes of INCREASE function so the diet below is simply intended to reduce or increase the substrates that feed that pathway and may change on a daily basis. Dr. Gina Leisching holds a BSc in Functional Human Biology, and Honours degree in Physiological Sciences, as well as a doctorate in human physiology from Stellenbosch University, South Africa. Though road construction may block a single lane (as in a single allele defect) and may have little affect on traffic flow, and double lane closure (double allele defect) may cause more problems. You may feel either better or worse let us know immediately. This will help lessen the impact of AFS.
Lifestyle changes such as taking time for walks, meditation, and fun can significantly prevent anxiety associated with a slow COMT and stressful life. Cancer is a scary thing. 
If you have low COMT function and are looking for natural anti-inflammatory supplements that dont interact with COMT, consider: The rest of this article is for Genetic Lifehacks members only. 
In this way, COMT genes can determine: COMT is also associated with high cortisol levels and HPA axis dysfunction. Cancer patients are rarely told that adding natural, alternative therapies to their care can greatly mitigate their adverse reactions, improve the quality of their life, and give them their life back! Dr Kevin Conners. And some sites go so far as to give smiley faces or frowny faces. The Detoxification circuit includes the immune system, the liver, and the extracellular matrix (ECM) or the fluid-filled spaces outside of cell walls. Funny enough, my husbands grandfather made the paper once with his eggplants nose, and out of the weird mutant vegetables, this one is the most funny to me. https://doi.org/10.1080/03602532.2016.1258075
Its all in the balance. [ref][ref][ref] This may be most beneficial in people with fast COMT enzyme function. The COMT gene also metabolizes catechins from food and drinks. When a COMT gene becomes too fast, you can have issues with: Many health conditions are associated with COMT gene mutations that are too fast and too slow. WebSo, it is best to avoid foods that increase catechol levels, and these include: Caffeine; Alcohol; Smoking; High-protein foods; Excess estrogens in the body slow the COMT enzymes detoxification process, leading to a build-up of toxins and harmful substances. Your email address will not be published. Quercetin and fisetin enhanced the small intestine cellular uptake and plasma levels of epi-catechins in in vitro and in vivo models. So, if you really struggle because of a COMT mutation, it might be best to limit strenuous exercise and stick to gentler forms like walking or yoga. Glucaric acid supports the glucuronidation liver detox pathway and is found in many citrus fruits and vegetables, such as: Someone with a slow COMT gene and high estrogen can also benefit from the supplement DIM+13C for extra support to help lower estrogen levels. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. Upload raw genetic data for nutrition and SNP insights. All Rights Reserved. ~ Printable topic summary reports. There are lots of factors that can influence how your body reacts to stress, including a COMT mutation. Gelatin. Clinicians often suggest that those with the rs4680 A/A genotype (slow COMT) avoid going overboard with foods and supplements considered methyl donors. Dietary quercetin exacerbates the development of estrogen-induced breast tumors in female ACI rats. Consider (but get tested on) the following supplements: Support MTHF and Methionine pathways with B6, B1, B2, Niacin (B3) because SAM is a major co-factor for COMT we typically use a product called B-Specific, Magnesium and other minerals another major co-factor - we typically use a product called Multi-Mins, Adaptogenic herbs such as Eleuthero, Ashwaganda, Passion Flower, Lemon Balm, Valerian, Progesterone increases MAO production for those with an MAO defect, For those with a COMT ++ (someone with a double allele defect) who are experiencing anxiety and insomnia - If you take a, Lack of motivation, lack of DRIVE, lack of desire for life, Consider INCREASING Foods high in amines (meats, proteins, etc. 
Wang, L.-J., Lee, S.-Y., Chen, S.-L., Chang, Y.-H., Chen, P. S., Huang, S.-Y., Tzeng, N.-S., Chen, K. C., Lee, I. H., Wang, T.-Y., Yang, Y. K., & Lu, R.-B. In people with a COMT mutation, their body finds it challenging to remove catechols. Copyright 2023 Amber's Natural Nutrition, Vegan Meat Sticks The Best Dehydrated Vegan Jerky Recipe. Wang, P., Heber, D., & Henning, S. M. (2012). The effects of the valine allele (faster metabolism, lower catecholamines) are easier to change than those of the methionine allele. MTHFR mutations can result in decreased SAMe production by they body, especially when there is a dietary deficiency of folate or vitamin B 2. But other people may have little to no response. However, modern consumer genetic testing kits are able to accurately differentiate between G472A allele making assessment of C186T redundant. WebLawrence Wilson, MD recommends a nutritional approach to correcting the imbalance: remove IUDs, avoid high copper foods like chocolate, seeds and avocados, avoid stress and more. COMT and studies on mood, cognitive function, and more. A multitude of treatments, from pharmaceutical COMT inhibitors (tolcapone, entacapone), to green tea and epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC), can inhibit COMT activity, thereby elevating catecholamines. Someone with a fast COMT gene metabolizes dopamine faster. In terms of the why this occurs, it is yet again just random gene mutation here. And, if they do, what do you do about it? 
So, if you have this mutation, then you may be more sensitive to stress and find that its effects last longer. https://doi.org/10.2217/pgs-2019-0001 Potatoes (all, even sweet potatoes) Coffee. For some people, low-dose, supplemental lithium orotate is a game-changer for mood issues when combined with vitamin B12. Even healthy changes can increase your stress levels and strain your NEM stress response systems, so you need to be careful. Taking magnesium can support the bodys ability to have a healthy stress response as it enables the COMT gene to clear stress from the body. Avoid all high oxalic acid foods like kale and spinach. The difference may be in your genes. Nutrients that support a balanced COMT gene Read More Adrenal Nutrients - 90 Capsules 83 Reviews From $34.95 Ashwagandha Extract - 60 Capsules 106 Reviews From $21.95 Balance is the key. https://doi.org/10.1038/clpt.2008.222 After a few weeks you want to add ONE food back to your diet and gauge symptoms. Nothing beats getting vitamins and minerals from food. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Epigenetics (environmental effects on gene expression) plays a role in everything. All Rights Reserved. But this isnt always the case.
S-Adenosyl methionine (SAMe), which is essential for methylation. Vice-president of the Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians (PedANP), and a graduate of NCNM, his practice specializes in treating neuropsychiatric disorders of children. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2012.11.043 The variant results from a methionine molecule replacing a valine molecule at this position on the gene. 
Genetically, this is known as the Val158Met polymorphism. Is inflammation causing your depression or anxiety? Eggs. Its actually quite simple to test for COMT and MTHFR gene mutations. It is vital that you include healthy eating, good sleep, movement and avoid excessive environmental toxins. In this Brand New 3rd Edition Dr. Kevin Conners adds almost DOUBLE the content with all new insights and practical tips on how to understand your bodys ability to heal and get back to a state of health. Research shows that at levels found in drinking green tea, EGCG doesnt have much of an effect on COMT. COMT plays an important role in inactivating several neurotransmitters including: Dopamine; Epinephrine; Norepinephrine 2. Both the G and A allele ofG472A in the COMT gene are associated withneurologicalcharacteristics associated with altered COMT activity 4. [ref] While apples are high in quercetin, it would take a ton of apples to reach the levels of quercetin that are used in studies to inhibit COMT. These are found in NTs as well as in certain foods. Catechols include neurotransmitters such as dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Work with your doctor. For some people, low-dose, supplemental lithium orotate is a game-changer for mood issues when combined with vitamin B12. A slow COMT cant do its work efficiently if it is deficient in the nutritional co-factors. The extra virgin olive oil phenolic oleacein is a dual substrate-inhibitor of catechol-O-methyltransferase. This, paired with chronic stress, can create the conditions for long-term health problems like Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome (AFS). Functional analysis of genetic variation in catechol-O-methyltransferase (Comt): Effects on mRNA, protein, and enzyme activity in postmortem human brain. Research has found that SNPs in the COMT gene has significant effects on its activity, which result in what is termed as the worrier and warrior characteristics. Theoretically, treatment with methylfolate would have the same effect. Metabolic pathways are essential for life itself and dependent on nutrients, in proper balance, for their function. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Your liver is essential for deactivating and expelling metabolites, so you need to keep it healthy. A preliminary investigation of the impact of catechol-O-methyltransferase genotype on the absorption and metabolism of green tea catechins. Systems pharmacogenomics gene, disease, drug and placebo interactions: A case study in COMT. Singh JP, Volavka J, Czobor P, et al. Those carrying two copies of the A allele of G472A, which is associated with a significant reduction in COMT activity may therefore benefit from magnesium supplementation. Work with your doctor. Good food sources include amaranth, beef (grass-fed), beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, bulgur, cauliflower, chicken, collard greens, eggs, liver (beef), pasta (bread and biscuits), peanut butter, quinoa, mutton, rabbit, salmon, sardines, scallops, shrimp, spinach, sunflower seeds, sweet potato, Swiss chard, tilapia (fish) and turkey. Bodenmann, S., Xu, S., Luhmann, U. F. O., Arand, M., Berger, W., Jung, H. H., & Landolt, H. P. (2009). When they stopped their supplementation, the side effects resolved. Elevated beta-glucuronidase activity and thus, high estrogen levels are associated with an increased risk of hormone dependent cancers such as breast cancer, prostate cancers, and colon cancers. But when this circuit is unbalanced and malfunctioning, this process can slow considerably, leaving your body awash in a sea of harmful substances. Lifestyle changes in diet and toxic exposure can greatly affect the function of these pathways as well. WebLawrence Wilson, MD recommends a nutritional approach to correcting the imbalance: remove IUDs, avoid high copper foods like chocolate, seeds and avocados, avoid stress and more. The COMT valine polymorphism (associated with lower dopamine and lower cognitive function) has been associated with apathy and depression.7 In this case, the lower dopamine is caused by high metabolism, not low production. Every other week youll look forward to seeing what Dr Conners has to say he only offers practical health tips paired with timely, relevant sources and inspirational wisdom. Epigenetic defects in genes called SNP defects can greatly affect the function of these pathways and testing for these SNPs may be beneficial. Potatoes (all, even sweet potatoes) Coffee. Eating foods high in B2 and folate is the best diet for the MTHFR gene, which is involved in the production of SAMe. Ambers Natural Nutrition is simply serving as a coach, mentor, and guide to help you reach your own health and wellness goals through simple holistic remedies and healthy lifestyle changes. This is a biochemical process where atoms are transferred from one substance to another. Metabolizing excess estrogen through the glucuronidation pathway helps to take the load off a slow COMT gene. COMT inhibitors are used to increase dopamine levels in people who are taking levodopa. More difficult is finding a COMT activator. Foods to avoid with slow COMT genes and how to support a slow COMT Catechin-containing foods and drinks such as chocolate, wine, coffee, and green tea are metabolized via the COMT gene, and these foods are best avoided if you have a slow COMT. You should eat a balanced diet rich in natural folate from food, but it is very difficult to get the recommended amount of folate from food alone. Mercury Promotes Catecholamines Which Potentiate Mercurial Autoimmunity and Vasodilation: Implications for Inositol 1,4,5-Triphosphate 3-Kinase C Susceptibility in Kawasaki Syndrome. Get Chapter 1 of "Stop Fighting Cancer & Start Treating the Cause" FREE! Dont try to make any of these changes alone or without professional help when you have AFS or other serious health conditions. The COMT gene helps make an essential enzyme known as catechol-O-methyltransferase. Who gets them and why, ADHD Genes: Exploring the Role of Genetics, Environment, and Neurochemistry in ADHD, G/G: Val/Val fast (higher) COMT activity[, A/G: Val/Met intermediate COMT activity (most common genotype in Caucasians), A/A: Met/Met slow (40% lower COMT activity) [. Scenario #1) Supplements that inhibit COMT function may hang around a bit longer in your system and have more beneficial effects. ** Cost of program varies and will be discussed at time of consultation at absolutely no obligation for those who qualify. COMT plays an important role in inactivating several neurotransmitters including: Dopamine; Epinephrine; Norepinephrine 2. WebBalancing COMT & MAO Pathway Variant issues. Information provided on this web site DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any doctor affiliated with our web site. Im Amber, a nutritional therapy consultant helping people to improve digestion, beat the bloat and lose weight. COMT plays an important role in inactivating several neurotransmitters including: Dopamine; Epinephrine; Norepinephrine 2. Magnesium is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies, and SAMe needs to be produced by the body. Spinach, liver, asparagus, and brussels sprouts are among the foods with the highest amounts of folate per serving. Everyones adrenals have different tolerance levels for this kind of overwork, but when you hit your individual limit, your adrenals will start to malfunction and eventually degrade.