Overmethylation

What is overmethylation?

Overmethylation (also called histapenia) is a condition that occurs when too many methyl molecules are available to add to enzymes, hormones, and neurotransmitters. We receive our methylation status in utero.

Why is it a problem?

Too many methyl groups (a carbon group with three hydrogen atoms) creates excessive levels of the important neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which leads to hyperexcitability in the brain. This causes high anxiety, rumination, heavy body hair, musical and artistic abilities, an inability to sit still, food and chemical sensitivities, paranoia, and sleeping problems. Overmethylators do not respond well to serotonin-enhancing substances such as Prozac, Zoloft, St. John’s Wort, and SAMe, which can make them suicidal. Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are often seen in overmethylated individuals.

Who can be overmethylated?

Individuals with high empathy for others, food and chemical sensitivities, and an adverse reaction to antidepressant medications may be overmethylated. Verbosity is also a hallmark of this condition.

How can we fix it?

Overmethylators have a genetic tendency to be very low in folate and vitamin B6, in addition to other important nutrients. This condition can be safely corrected and balanced with dietary and nutrient therapy, as well as lifestyle modifications. First, let’s see if you might be impacted by this. Take my free, five-minute life assessment to find out if this applies to you.