A low-ammonia diet may be required when treating certain single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPS). Ammonia is formed in the body when food is broken down in the intestines by bacteria, which releases ammonia in the body. SUOX, NOS, A1298 and CBS are particularly affected by ammonia. These Snps affect certain metabolic pathways and can also lower BH4 levels. Increasing BH4 levels is just as important as lowering ammonia levels in the body.
Normally BH4 is used to recycle and detoxify ammonia, but when it is lowered and there are normal or elevated levels of ammonia, it can cause a variety of health problems. These health issues can range from brain fog, fatigue, muscle fatigue/weakness, among others.
Symptoms of ammonia toxicity (which can affect people with low BH4 levels) can range from brain fog, dizziness, speech problems, poor concentration, dark circles under the eyes, poor learning and memory, and food intolerance (particularly protein). In some rare cases, it may also be required for patients with liver or kidney problems.
It can also cause other mental/physical symptoms like anxiety and depression. When BH4 levels are lower, ammonia detoxification is prioritized over other essential functions such as neurotransmitter production. Neurotransmitters can affect many functions in the body, such as B. Mood, appetite, memory and general mental function.
To compensate for the reduced amount of protein in the diet, it may be necessary to supplement with amino acids to compensate for the lack of amino acids from lower protein levels. There are certain foods that contain higher levels of ammonia than others, here is a list of them: http://wholefoodcatalog.info/nutrient/ammonia/foods/high/
As can be seen from the list, it would be beneficial to do a paleo template diet with a reduced amount of protein. To further compensate for the reduced protein amounts, it would help to increase the amount of carbohydrates and fat as well.
Proper supplementation can also help, but should be done by a healthcare professional who is well trained or familiar with methylation and complex health issues. Finding help for people with mthfr to detox can be difficult as many either do not know or know very little about treating such problems.
Adrenal, thyroid and gastrointestinal health management is also important in managing such complex health issues. I found this note particularly helpful, which explains in particular the ammonia problem and treatment goals for certain SNPS:
Thanks to Jared Heldt
