When these genes function poorly, it can impair detoxification and lead to toxin accumulation, affecting health. This blog explains how your genetics shape detoxification and provides actionable tips to enhance your body’s natural detox abilities.

Key Genes Involved in Detoxification

1. CBS (Cystathionine Beta-Synthase):

CBS is involved in sulfur metabolism and the breakdown of homocysteine, an amino acid that can accumulate in the body. High homocysteine levels are associated with cardiovascular issues, so CBS helps manage this by converting homocysteine into other substances that are less harmful.

2. CTH (Cystathionine Gamma-Lyase):

CTH is important for the production of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant in the body. Glutathione plays a central role in detoxifying the liver and fighting oxidative stress. If CTH activity is compromised due to genetic variants, it may reduce the body’s ability to produce enough glutathione, making it harder to eliminate toxins and fight free radicals that can damage cells.

3. AHCY (Adenosylhomocysteinase):

AHCY helps break down S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), a byproduct of methylation processes. Methylation is critical for gene expression, DNA repair, and various metabolic pathways. By controlling SAH levels, AHCY ensures that the methylation process works efficiently. Impaired AHCY function can lead to a buildup of SAH, which interferes with methylation and detoxification.

SNPs Linked to Detox Pathway Variations

• CBS C699T (rs234706) : This SNP is related to variations in the CBS gene that may affect sulfur metabolism and homocysteine breakdown. A defective variant can lead to elevated homocysteine levels, impairing detoxification processes.
• CTH rs1021737 : A variation in this SNP can impact CTH gene activity, affecting the production of glutathione. Lower glutathione levels make it harder for the body to neutralize toxins and protect against oxidative damage.
• AHCY rs819147 : This SNP affects the AHCY gene, influencing how effectively it breaks down SAH. An inefficient version of this enzyme can cause a build-up of SAH, which may interfere with detoxification processes, particularly those related to methylation.

General Tips for Enhancing Detoxification

1. Optimize Nutrient Intake

• B Vitamins: B6, B12, and folate are essential for methylation and homocysteine metabolism. Include leafy greens, legumes, eggs, and fortified cereals.
• Increase Glutathione Levels: Use NAC supplements or eat glutathione-rich foods like garlic, cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli, kale, cabbage), avocado, and okra.

2. Increase Antioxidant Intake

• Add antioxidant-rich foods like berries, vitamin C-rich foods (oranges, bell peppers), vitamin E-rich foods(nuts, seeds), and green tea, which contains catechins promoting detoxification.

3. Boost Methylation

• Methylated B vitamins: Use methylfolate and methylcobalamin if you have certain genetic variants, such as MTHFR.
• Betaine: Found in foods like beets and spinach, helps reduce homocysteine and supports methylation.

4. Reduce Toxin Exposure

• Choose natural personal care products and avoid plastic containers to reduce exposure to toxins like BPA. Opt for organic produce when possible.

5. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine

• Moderation is key. Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake to prevent liver overload and support detoxification.

6. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction

• Manage stress with meditation, deep breathing, and yoga. Ensure quality sleep for body repair and detoxification, particularly the brain’s glymphatic system.

7. Consider DNA Testing for More Targeted Insights

• DNA testing can provide personalized insights into how your body detoxifies, helping you optimize the process based on your genetic makeup.

These general tips can help enhance your detoxification process, but understanding how your unique genetic makeup influences your detox pathways offers even more targeted insights. If you want to know exactly how to take care of your health based on your genes, Geneus DNA’s Exclusive package allows you to identify potential weak points and take scientifically backed, proactive steps to enhance your detox pathways.