Genetic Screening

Almost 40% of people in the United States will be diagnosed with some type of cancer in their lifetime. Over 14 million are living with cancer right now. Our genes can influence our risks for cancer and other common diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s.

Dr. Cutler has studied under the pioneers of Nutrigenomics. An analysis of chromosomes (DNA), proteins, and certain metabolites enable insight into heritable disease-related genotypes, genetic polymorphisms, phenotypes, or karyotypes, and how they impact an individual’s life today.

While lifestyle, environmental toxicants, and emotional habits can be a primary factor in health, some markers present in genes can influence where and how we develop a disease. “Genetics load the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger.” Early screening may help to prevent it.

What is the MTHFR Gene Mutation?

MTHFR is a gene called Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, and variations or mutations of this gene can affect the way our bodies function. This includes how we process amino acids and handle toxicants and other chemicals.

Medical professionals realize this mutation could explain why some people are more susceptible to chronic disease or don’t react the way anticipated to medicine or treatments.

Many NDs and integrative MDs currently utilize gene tests to identify patients’ genetic risks and susceptibilities and diagnose medical conditions. Many gene tests evaluate what are known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; pronounced “snips”) to identify your predisposition to diseases.

SNPs are the most frequent type of variation in the human genome and help determine your susceptibility to common diseases like heart disease, osteoporosis, and cancer.

Some of the Issues Associated with MTHFR Variation

Unanticipated Reaction or Immunity to Medication

Sensitivity to Food Chemicals

Fertility Trouble or Multiple Miscarriages

Chronic Fatigue

Depression

Frequent Headaches

Heart Disease

Cancer

What Can Be Done About Gene Variations?

Finding a variation in a gene and how it may impact your body’s functions and detoxification process can assist Dr. Cutler in developing a customized therapy program. Our goal is to find the root cause of your symptoms to achieve your body’s optimal potential.

Therapies could include the addition of certain vitamins, changes in diet, removal of toxicants, and other lifestyle changes to regulate critical enzymes in your body better.