Living with the COMT met met variant
Thriving with COMT and MTHFR Gene Mutations: My Journey to Optimal Health at 46
Living with gene mutations like COMT (Met/Met) and MTHFR isn’t a health journey for the faint of heart—it’s a constant battle, but one I’ve embraced with determination. At 46, I’ve learned that existing isn’t enough. My mission is to thrive, not merely survive, despite the challenges my genetics and body present. Maintaining my weight around 255 pounds—regardless of what I eat—feels like pushing against a biological tide, but understanding my body’s needs has been transformative.
The Genetic Puzzle: COMT and MTHFR
The COMT gene mutation (Met/Met variant) affects how my body processes catecholamines, like dopamine and adrenaline, which can heighten anxiety and stress levels. The MTHFR mutation means I have difficulty processing folic acid into its active form, methylfolate, which is critical for cellular function and detoxification. These mutations demand constant adjustments in how I eat, supplement, and manage stress.
Diet: The Foundation of My Health
Navigating my health starts with what goes on my plate. My diet is built on whole, nutrient-dense foods that support my genetic needs and avoid triggers that exacerbate inflammation or anxiety.
- Ketogenic and Carnivore Principles:
A high-fat, low-carb approach with a focus on quality meats forms the base of my diet. I prioritize grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and pasture-raised pork. Animal-based foods are naturally low in FODMAPs, reducing digestive discomfort.
Entering ketosis has been a game-changer, although the initial days often heighten my anxiety—a direct interplay of COMT and my nervous system adapting.
- Avoiding Trigger Foods:
No gluten or wheat: These wreak havoc on my digestion and contribute to systemic inflammation.
Low caffeine: It amplifies anxiety and exacerbates the effects of my COMT mutation.
- Carbohydrate Management:
Although I lean toward low-carb, I incorporate small amounts of berries and bananas for energy and micronutrients. Staying under 50 carbs daily keeps my weight and energy levels stable.
- Methylation Support:
I ensure my diet includes foods rich in naturally methylated nutrients or supplement with high-quality products. Folate, resveratrol, and magnesium-3-onate are cornerstones of my routine.
Supplements: Filling the Gaps
Supplementation bridges the gaps in my genetic makeup and diet. I’ve built a regimen that supports methylation, nervous system health, and muscle recovery:
Methylated Vitamins: Essential for bypassing the limitations of my MTHFR mutation.
Creatine and Collagen Peptides: For muscle maintenance and joint health.
D-Ribose and Magnesium: To manage heart health and PVCs.
AG1 and Trimethylglycine: For foundational nutrition and methylation.
The Battle with Weight
Despite a meticulous approach to diet and exercise, keeping my weight steady at 255 pounds feels like a battle against biology. Factors like water retention, my body’s natural set point, and metabolic quirks related to my genes mean my efforts must be relentless. I lift heavy weights five days a week, walk daily, and play pickleball to stay active, but my metabolism requires constant fine-tuning.
The Emotional and Physical Toll
This journey isn’t just about the physical—it’s mental and emotional too. Anxiety, triggered by my genetic predispositions, can feel overwhelming at times. The key is finding balance:
Practicing mindfulness with tools like the Muse S headband.
Prioritizing sleep, going to bed at 9:00 PM nightly to ensure I’m rested for the next day’s challenges.
Relying on a supportive family, especially my wife Rachel Ann and kids Olive and Paul, who keep me grounded and motivated.
Thriving, Not Just Surviving
For me, thriving means embracing the challenges, not fighting them. It’s about optimizing every part of my life to work in harmony with my genetic blueprint. It’s a journey of resilience, self-awareness, and a commitment to living the healthiest life possible—not just for myself but for my family.
My life may always involve careful monitoring and constant adjustments, but I wouldn’t trade the lessons I’ve learned for anything. It’s about more than weight or mutations—it’s about crafting a life that honors my body’s unique needs while striving to be the best version of myself every day.