Patient Profile – Nutrigenomics

By Krystal Shaw, RN

Nutrigenomics is a branch of nutritional genomics and is the study of the effects of food and food constituents on gene expression. It focuses on identifying and understanding the molecular level interaction between nutrients and the genome.

One such condition that Nutrigenomics can help to identify is Methylenetetrahydrofolate (MTHFR) mutation. One such result of this mutation is a decreased ability to process Amino Acids leading to undermethylation and contributing to decreased Serum, Calcium, Magnesium, Methionine and Vitamin B6 but a marked elevation in Folic Acid levels.

A young co-learner entered our office with the aforementioned condition in March of 2015 exhibiting symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), sleep disturbances, excessive carbohydrate cravings and multiple food allergies. Performing an Optimal Nutrient Evaluation and Methylation Profile aided in the identification of the above mutation and deficiencies that assisted our providers in making dietary and supplement recommendations that would change this boy’s life.

By implementing a diet high in cruciferous vegetables, ground flax, and good fats, as well as severely limiting sugars and simple carbohydrates, by May 2015 our co-learner was growing more stable and happy with only a few incidents in the afternoon. With continued adjustments in supplementation such as B12 and Methionine, among others, by August of 2015 his parent’s reported that he was “much better”.

The performance of the Optimal Nutrient Evaluation and Methylation Profile provided the information necessary to correct deficiencies that were negatively impacting this family’s life. Coupled with the exciting proposition that they were ready to implement lifestyle changes in diet and activity and make them habits to grow a happier family made for an unstoppable combination.
Are you ready? Talk with your Riordan Clinic provider today to see how Nutrient Lab Testing could benefit you!