A few questions likely come to mind when you see the question, “are you eating methyl donor foods?” Like “what are methyl donor foods?” Or, “is there a specific reason why you should be eating them?”
You may have noticed stories about MTHFR gene mutations and methylation but few people know how methyl donor foods to tie it all together. It will take a little organic and biochemistry to explain it.
What Does the Term ‘Methyl’ Mean?
“Methyl” refers to nutrients that are involved in a biochemical process called methylation. During methylation, a process that is critical for healthy bodily functioning, chemicals are added to and bond with proteins, DNA, or other molecules. Methyl donors are composed of a carbon atom attached to three hydrogen atoms, signified as CH3.
Why Are Methyl Donor Foods Important?
Although experts have not yet completely identified how methylation works, it is known that it is intimately involved in the metabolism of DNA and lipids and appears to help prevent the expression of cancer genes and thus the development of cancer. In fact, methyl-related nutrients have been associated with a reduced risk of pancreatic, colon, and breast cancers.
Deborah Mitchell
Author
Deborah Mitchell is a freelance health writer who is passionate about animals and the environment. She has authored, co-authored, and written more than 50 books and thousands of articles on a wide range of topics. This article was originally published on NaturallySavvy.com
