Whole Blood Histamine as a Reliable Measure of Methylation Status for Managing Mood Disorders

Understanding methylation status is important when managing depression and other mood disorders with B vitamins. While MTHFR genetic testing can be helpful in some cases, it doesn't provide a clear picture of overall methylation status. This is because there are many genes involved in the methylation pathway, and MTHFR is just one of them. Relying on MTHFR genetic testing and standard therapy with methylated B12 and folate, may actually cause worsening of mood-related symptoms.

Whole Blood Histamine is a more reliable measure of methylation status as it helps to determine if someone is an undermethylator or an overmethylator. Whole Blood Histamine levels indicate methylation status by measuring the activity of a red blood cell enzyme that maintains histamine levels, which is "methyl dependent." William Walsh PhD of the Walsh Research Institute has theorized how histamine levels indicate methylation status. Nutrient remedies for undermethylators with mood disorders may not include folic acid products, but it may for overmethylators.

Homocysteine is also tested simultaneously with Whole Blood Histamine as it is a marker of cardiovascular inflammation. Long-term elevation is associated with brain dementia and Alzheimer's. Vitamin B6 and other nutrients may be recommended to reduce homocysteine and raise levels of glutathione, a key antioxidant made by the body.

Second Opinion Physician offers consultation services for Interpreting Whole Blood Histamine Results

There can be some challenges in determining methylation status using Whole Blood Histamine when persons are taking antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other anti-histamines. Testing may still be helpful, but when results are ambiguous, it may be advantageous to test using Doctors Data Plasma Methylation Panel.

True undermethylators with mood disorders are not recommended to take folic acid of any kind, as it has a more pronounced effect of lowering serotonin and dopamine activity. Walsh-trained physicians can provide consultation options for individuals wishing to interpret these test results and determine the best strategy for nutrient supplementation.