Could you have ADHD or the MTHFR Gene Mutation?

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is so often misunderstood. For years, I dealt with symptoms that didn’t really fit the typical ADHD diagnosis, which left me struggling to understand myself and the challenges I was facing every day.

Growing up, doctors never even mentioned the possibility of ADHD or ADD so I assumed I couldn't have it. My doctor told me that if I had it, I would have been diagnosed as a child.

It's simply NOT TRUE. I've since learned that for girls, it often presents differently. I didn’t have the hyperactivity part, and most don't. Instead, it presents as this feeling of being overwhelmed and anxious. That’s such a common myth that needs to be kicked to the curb. Many people, especially those without hyperactivity, don't get diagnosed until they’re adults because the symptoms are more internalized emotionally and mentally.

Fortunately, my second doctor listened to me and suggested taking a diagnostic test. That test confirmed I had ADHD, and I started treatment with medications like Adderall, Strattera, and Vyvanse.

As an adult, I now see how important understanding my ADHD is. Not only does it help with how to manage the symptoms, but it also started me on the pathway to heal deep insecurities and learn more about who I am and how God made me.

A misconception about ADHD:

People with hyperactivity tend to be impulsive and with the inability to sit still. 

Truth: 

My ADHD shows up as a lack of focus, losing track of time, zoning out, daydreaming, and procrastinating on tasks that need concentration. I also tend to forget things… a lot. Sitting still has never been a problem because the list of things going on in my brain is overwhelming to the point I feel paralyzed.

I wasn't diagnosed until a few years ago at 40 years old and achieved lots of success.

 I managed without medication but looking back I can see how I was just getting by. It seems as I got older, more was added to my plate. And, the more I added, the mental load became too much to handle.

Also, through this journey, I learned about a link between ADHD and the MTHFR gene mutation.  

This gene helps the body make an enzyme necessary for processing folate (B9). MTHFR mutations can cause things like depression, fatigue, anxiety, chronic pain, nerve pain, and headaches or migraines. People with ADHD often have lower levels of vitamins B2, B6, and B9, which are vitamins that support energy and neurotransmitter production.  

Since finding out about the MTHFR mutation and how it impacts the body, I’ve learned so much about how diet plays a big role in managing ADHD. I’ve found that limiting inflammatory foods like sugar, gluten, refined grains, dairy, trans fats, and processed snacks helps me avoid most of the brain fog. For people with gluten sensitivity and MTHFR mutations, steering clear of gluten is crucial because its inflammatory effects can be much worse. 

So what is life like after diagnosis? 

Living with and managing ADHD has been a long road of self-discovery and challenged me to adjust many parts of my lifestyle. While medication helps, understanding my diagnosis and learning how to manage will never stop. 

Think you may have ADHD or the MTHFR gene mutation?

If you’re dealing with similar symptoms, know you’re not alone. Both can be diagnosed with simple tests.  There is hope! If a doctor won’t listen to you, go to a different one. I'd also encourage you to try eliminating certain foods like gluten or sugary foods. It isn't easy but it is doable. And, you are worth fighting for. 

 A diagnosis isn't an excuse

If you read this far, there is one more important thing to share. Having this diagnosis is not an excuse to continue struggling in the areas where you are weak. Instead, I challenge you to use it to learn the best ways to overcome where you are the weakest. But, also, have grace for yourself. We don't get to where we are going overnight but every day there is progress. 

Melissa Batt is more than a Christian Life Coach; She’s a trusted confidant for those who are ready to get out of their comfort zone and get more out of life than the status quo. She understands the ups and downs of navigating life in today’s world. Her compassionate approach, coupled with her extensive knowledge of biblical principles and easy-to-walk-out strategies, equips her to help women overcome obstacles, deepen their faith, and step boldly into the life they were meant to live. If you would like to work with Melissa, reach out to [email protected] for more information.