Today we wanted to share something that may be helpful for you on your journey of trying to conceive or even on the journey of just trying to understand your body. A new finding of an inherited gene mutation has been linked to conceiving troubles in women. This mutation is known as MTHFR and we are here to share some insight that may be helpful and beneficial for you. One common misconception that affects people with these mutation is that all prenatal vitamins are the same, but a new finding shows that prenatal vitamins are actually not “one size fits all”.
What is MTHFR Mutation?
MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. Although it sounds and looks scary, it is becoming more common and getting tested has helped women who are trying to conceive. MTHFR is a gene mutation that can affect the way your body processes folic acid. As many women know, doctors recommend taking a prenatal with folic acid, however, if you have the gene mutation, this can actually harm you and the baby.
Signs of MTHFR
Signs of the MTHFR mutation in women of childbearing age is recurrent miscarriage and neural tube defects in babies. There are other symptoms that can vary from person to person as well and they are:
- cardiovascular and thromboembolic diseases (specifically blood clots, stroke, embolism, and heart attacks)
- depression
- anxiety
- bipolar disorder
- schizophrenia
- colon cancer
- acute leukemia
- chronic pain and fatigue
- nerve pain
- Migraines
Studies have been very limited thus far, but are growing with a higher demand of individuals being tested.
A simple start to finding some answers.
A simple start to finding answers is looking at your prenatal vitamins. Not all prenatal vitamins are the same and many of them do not contain the natural form of folic acid that your body can absorb. When looking for a prenatal if you have a suspicion that you might have the MTHFR gene mutation, look for the ingredient L-Methylfolate. This is the natural form of folate that your body, even with the gene mutation, can process and promote a healthy pregnancy.
One of my favorite prenatal vitamins that offer this option is the HONEST Co. Once Daily prenatal vitamin. It is a complete multivitamin that supports healthy development and growth. It contains Vitamin B6, organic ginger, and gentle forms of microminerals to reduce the chances of an upset stomach. The naturally derived sweet vanilla coating makes it easy to take as well.
Another prenatal I like is SmartyPants Prenatal Complete Multivitamin Gummies. You take four gummies daily to supply your body with the essential vitamins that you need to promote a healthy pregnancy.
Be your own advocate and take steps to help yourself.
Don’t settle for less. Conceiving is a touchy subject for many women, especially when they have unanswered questions about why they are having trouble conceiving or staying pregnant. Talk to your doctor and ask if you can be tested for the gene mutation. It is important, especially when trying to conceive, to ask questions. Do what you feel is best for your body and your growing family.
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