B vitamins such as B12, B6 and folic acid are extremely important for a process called methylation – which is basically a way that the body protects its own DNA and cleans itself. Methylation takes place in many cells in the body including the brain and the liver calls. Poor methylation can lead to a build up of a toxic amino acid called homocysteine which has been shown to contribute to all manner of diseases from heart disease to Alzheimer’s disease. Blood tests show that people with high homocysteine are deficient in B vitamins and by simply taking B vitamins homocysteine can be reduced. Now B vitamins can be gotten from food, mainly meat, as well as vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains but taking a supplement can help boost levels, especially if you have the MTHFR gene – a genetic polymorphism that about 60% of the population are believed to have – that means you don’t turn folic acid in its active form of 5-MTHF. One quick way to get an indication of whether you have this genetic polymorphism is if your urine stinks after eating asparagus. By taking a multivitamin with 500mcg B12, 400-800mcg folic acid and 20mg B6 you can improve your methylation and protect your brain.
