Our genes are like blueprints, guiding how our bodies process nutrients, manage stress, detoxify, and even regulate mood. But sometimes, those blueprints have slight variations—what we call genetic polymorphisms or SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms)—that can make certain processes a bit less efficient. The good news? Food and nutrients can play a powerful role in supporting these genetic pathways.
As Dr. Ben Lynch notes in his book, Dirty Genes:
“Your genes are not your destiny, but knowing how they work can empower you to make smarter choices for your health.”
Testing First
Before diving into supplements or herbal protocols to address potential genetic mutations, it’s crucial to get a clear understanding of your child’s unique genetic blueprint. Testing through services like 23andMe, ancestry.com, specialized labs, genetics counseling, or others can test your child’s genetic makeup.
Key Genes to Consider—and How to Support Them
Below are some of the key genes that influence detoxification, neurotransmitter balance, and stress regulation.
The MTHFR gene is essential for converting folate (B9) into its active form, methylfolate. This process—known as methylation—is critical for:
- DNA repair
- Neurotransmitter balance(think mood, focus, and emotional stability)
- Detoxification(clearing out toxins from the body)
When there’s a mutation in the MTHFR gene, the body struggles to produce enough methylfolate, which can impact everything from mood to detox capabilities.
Food is Medicine: Supporting MTHFR Through Diet
While methylated B vitamin supplements (like methylfolate and methylcobalamin) can help bypass this bottleneck, diet is your first line of defense. The right foods provide gentle, natural support for methylation without overwhelming the system.
Folate-Rich Foods
(Focus on natural folate, not synthetic folic acid, which is problematic for those with MTHFR mutations.)
- Dark leafy greens: spinach, kale, Swiss chard, romaine lettuce
- Brussels sprouts
- Asparagus
- Avocados
- Lentils and beans
- Beets
B12-Rich Foods
(Helps convert homocysteine, supporting detox and brain health.)
- Wild-caught fish: salmon, sardines, mackerel
- Grass-fed beef
- Crab
- Organic chicken
- Eggs (especially the yolk)
B2 (Riboflavin)-Rich Foods
(Helps convert homocysteine, supporting detox and brain health.)
- Wild-caught fish: salmon, sardines, mackerel
- Grass-fed beef
- Crab
- Organic chicken
- Eggs (especially the yolk)
Magnesium-Rich Foods
(Magnesium helps regulate homocysteine levels and supports methylation.)
- Pumpkin seeds
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Bananas
- Dark chocolate (opt for 70% cocoa or higher)
NAC Precursors (N-Acetylcysteine)
(Supports detoxification and boosts glutathione production.)
- Broccoli
- Garlic
- Onions
- Eggs (rich in sulfur, crucial for glutathione production)
Supplements for MTHFR Support
While food is foundational, targeted supplementation can give methylation an extra boost—just be mindful of how your child’s body responds.
Methylated B Vitamins
- Methylfolate (B9) and Methylcobalamin (B12) can help bypass the MTHFR bottleneck.
- Important Note: Some people—especially those with COMT mutations—might feel overstimulated with daily methylfolate. Symptoms like jitters, anxiety, or feeling “wired” can be signs of too much.
- You What gmight not need methylfolate every day. Some people feel their best with just 2-3 times a week.
Folinic Acid
- If methylfolate feels too strong, folinic acid isa gentler alternative.
- It provides the benefits of folate without flooding the system, allowing the body to convert folate as needed.
NAC and Magnesium
- Both help manage homocysteine levels and support detoxification pathways.
COMT is a gene responsible for breaking down certain neurotransmitters—think dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). These are your child’s “feel-good” and “fight-or-flight” chemicals, which influence mood, focus, stress response, and even sleep patterns.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting:
- Some children have a “slow” COMT variant, meaning they don’t break down these neurotransmitters as quickly. This can lead to anxiety, overwhelm, or emotional sensitivity because they’re swimming in stress chemicals longer than usual.
- On the flip side, others may have a “fast” COMT variant, breaking down dopamine and other neurotransmitters too quickly, leading to low motivation, trouble focusing, or mood swings.
Food is Medicine: Supporting COMT Through Diet
The key with COMT is balance. Whether your child has a slow or fast COMT variant, the right foods can help regulate neurotransmitter activity and support stress resilience.
For “Slow” COMT
(High Dopamine/Stress Sensitivity – Anxiety, Overwhelm, Emotional Reactivity)
If your child tends to get anxious, feels overwhelmed by stimulation, or has trouble calming down after stress, supporting their COMT function can help ease that emotional load.
Magnesium-Rich Foods
(Calms the nervous system and helps regulate neurotransmitter activity.)
- Spinach
- Pumpkin seeds
- Black beans
- Avocados
- Quinoa
Foods High in Methyl Donors
(Supports COMT enzyme activity to process excess neurotransmitters.)
- Eggs
- Salmon
- Turkey
- Beets
- Lentils
Polyphenol-Rich Foods
(Natural compounds that help regulate dopamine levels and reduce oxidative stress.)
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- Green tea (if tolerated)
- Olive oil
- Dark chocolate (in moderation)
B Vitamins (especially B2 and B6)
(Crucial for neurotransmitter metabolism.)
- Chicken
- Tuna
- Sunflower seeds
- Bananas
Supplements for Slow COMT Support
Adaptogens
- Ashwagandha: Calms the nervous system and reduces cortisol (the stress hormone).
- Rhodiola: Improves focus and energy without overstimulation.
- Holy Basil (Tulsi): Acts as a gentle mood stabilizer, smoothing out emotional ups and downs.
Bonus: All three can be found in Stress Responseby Gaia Herbs for a convenient blend.
Magnesium
(the calming mineral—relaxes muscles, eases anxiety, and supports neurotransmitter breakdown.)
- Magnesium Glycinate: Great for calming the mind and improving sleep.
- Magnesium Taurate: Combines magnesium and taurine for extra relaxation.
- Magnesium Threonate: Targets brain health and cognitive function.
- Taurine
(An amino acid that supports calm and focus by regulating GABA, the brain’s natural calming neurotransmitter.) - Phosphatidylserine (PS)
(Supports cortisol regulation, focus, and memory. Great for kids stuck in “fight-or-flight” )
Tidbit: Slow COMT kids often thrive with structured routines and calming activities like deep breathing, yoga, or time in nature to help regulate their heightened stress response.
For “Fast” COMT
(Low Dopamine/Focus Issues – Low Motivation, Mood Swings, Trouble Focusing)
If your child struggles with motivation, focus, or mood regulation, you’ll want to support dopamine production and protect those neurotransmitters from breaking down too quickly.
Tyrosine-Rich Foods
(Tyrosine is the amino acid precursor to dopamine—perfect for boosting motivation and focus.)
- Almonds
- Turkey
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Bananas
Healthy Fats
(Supports brain function and neurotransmitter balance.)
- Avocados
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseeds
- Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
Iron-Rich Foods
(Iron is essential for dopamine synthesis.)
- Grass-fed beef
- Lentils
- Spinach (pair with vitamin C-rich foods like oranges for better absorption)
- Quinoa
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
(Helps protect dopamine from breaking down too quickly.)
- Bell peppers
- Kiwi
- Strawberries
- Broccoli
Supplements for Fast COMT Support
- Folinic Acidand Hydroxycobalamin
(Avoid methylated forms as they can be too stimulating.) - Tyrosine
(An amino acid and building block of dopamine. Enhances mental clarity, focus, and emotional resilience—especially during stressful tasks.) - Rhodiola Rosea
(While known for stress management, Rhodiola uniquely boosts dopamine and improves mental performance—perfect for fast COMT kids.)
Best Time to Take: In the morning to support focus and energy throughout the day.
Think of MAO-A as the body’s emotional thermostat—it helps control the levels of “feel-good” neurotransmitters in the brain. But just like with any thermostat, things can get tricky if it’s set too high or too low.
MAO-A Variants & What They Mean
Slow MAO-A (“Warrior” Type):
Some kids have a slow MAO-A variant, meaning they don’t break down neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine quickly enough. This can lead to too much of these chemicals floating around in the brain, which may sound good—but in reality, it can cause irritability, aggression, mood swings, or impulsivity. These children might seem quick to anger or easily frustrated, and their emotions can feel intense and hard to manage.
Fast MAO-A (“Worrier” Type):
On the flip side, a fast MAO-A variant means neurotransmitters are broken down too quickly, leading to low levels of serotonin and dopamine. This can result in anxiety, depression, low motivation, or trouble focusing. These kids might seem overly sensitive, prone to sadness, or struggle with chronic worry.
Food is Medicine: Supporting MAO-A Through Diet
The key is to balance neurotransmitter levels through the right foods and supplements, depending on whether your child has a slow or fast MAO-A variant.
For Slow MAO-A
(High Serotonin/Dopamine – Mood Swings, Irritability, Aggression)
The goal here is to gently support the breakdown of neurotransmitters and reduce excess stimulation in the brain.
Foods High in Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
(Riboflavin helps support the MAO-A enzyme in breaking down excess neurotransmitters.)
- Spinach
- Almonds
- Eggs
- Mushrooms
Foods Rich in Tryptophan
(Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, helping to balance mood without overwhelming the system.)
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Pumpkin seeds
- Asparagus
Supplements for Slow MAO-A Support
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2):
Supports MAO-A activity to gently regulate neurotransmitter levels. - Lithium (Orotate, low-dose):
A natural mood stabilizer that helps balance emotional reactivity and supports healthy neurotransmitter breakdown. (Always consult a healthcare provider before using lithium.)
For Fast MAO-A
(Low Serotonin/Dopamine – Anxiety, Worry, Low Mood)
The goal here is to boost neurotransmitter levels and protect them from breaking down too quickly.
Foods That Support Serotonin and Dopamine Production
- Tryptophan-Rich Foods:
(Boosts serotonin to support mood and calm anxiety.)- Pumpkin seeds
- Turkey
- Oats
- Tofu
- Complex Carbs:
(Help transport tryptophan into the brain for serotonin production.)- Quinoa
- Sweet potatoes
- Brown rice
Supplements for Fast MAO-A Support
- Inositol:
Supports serotonin production and helps reduce anxiety and worry. - Melatonin:
Helps regulate sleep patterns and supports serotonin balance, especially for kids who struggle with insomnia or restlessness. - Liposomal Curcumin:
A powerful anti-inflammatory that can protect neurotransmitters from being broken down too quickly and reduce oxidative stress in the brain.
The PEMT (Phosphatidylethanolamine N-Methyltransferase) gene plays a crucial role in producing phosphatidylcholine (PC)—a vital component of cell membranes that supports brain health, liver detoxification, and methylation (a process important for detox and DNA repair).
If your child has a PEMT gene variant, their body may struggle to produce enough phosphatidylcholine on its own, leading to issues like fatty liver, brain fog, mood swings, and detox difficulties.
Food is Medicine: Supporting PEMT Through Diet
The best way to support PEMT function is by incorporating choline-rich foods, healthy fats, and B vitamins to boost phosphatidylcholine production naturally.
Choline-Rich Foods
(Choline is the building block for phosphatidylcholine, supporting brain function and detoxification.)
- Eggs (especially the yolk)
- Fish (salmon, cod)
- Chicken
- Red meat (grass-fed is best)
- Liver (beef or chicken liver—if your child tolerates it!)
Healthy Fats for Cell Membrane Support
(Phosphatidylcholine is a type of fat, so healthy fats help keep cells flexible and functioning optimally.)
- Avocados
- Olive oil (great for cooking or drizzling on veggies)
- Nuts and seeds (walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds)
- Fatty fish (rich in omega-3s that reduce inflammation)
- Coconut oil (in moderation)
B Vitamins (especially B6, B12, and Folate)
(These are essential cofactors in methylation and detox pathways.)
- Spinach
- Asparagus
- Lentils
- Salmon
- Eggs
Supplements to Support PEMT Function
- Phosphatidylcholine (PC):
If your child isn’t getting enough choline from diet alone, phosphatidylcholine supplements can directly support cell membranes and liver detoxification. - Betaine (Trimethylglycine or TMG):
Supports methylation and helps manage homocysteine levels, reducing inflammation and supporting detox pathways.
Limit High-Histamine Foods
Certain foods naturally contain more histamine or can trigger the body to release histamine. While every child’s tolerance is different, these are the usual suspects to watch out for:
- Aged and Fermented Foods: Aged cheeses, yogurt, sour cream, sauerkraut, kombucha, and cured meats (like salami and pepperoni).
- Smoked or Processed Meats: Bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats.
- Fish (especially leftovers): Mackerel, tuna, sardines, anchovies, and any fish that’s been sitting for a while.
- Alcohol and Vinegars: Red wine, champagne, balsamic vinegar, and apple cider vinegar.
- Canned or Leftover Foods: The longer food sits, the more histamine it can develop. Fresh is best!
Focus on Low-Histamine, DAO-Supportive Foods
Now for the good stuff! These foods are naturally low in histamine and support DAO enzyme activity to help break down histamine more effectively.
- Fresh, Unprocessed Meats: Chicken, turkey, lamb, and fresh fish (cooked immediately after purchasing).
- Fresh Vegetables: Leafy greens (except spinach), carrots, cucumbers, zucchini, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers.
- Low-Histamine Fruits: Apples, pears, blueberries, mangoes, and melons.
- Herbs and Spices: Ginger, turmeric, basil, thyme, and rosemary—many of which have anti-inflammatory
- Gluten-Free Whole Grains: Quinoa, rice, and millet.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado (in moderation, as some people are sensitive).
Increase Foods Rich in DAO-Supporting Nutrients
Certain nutrients can boost DAO activity and support histamine breakdown. Here’s where you can focus your efforts:
- Vitamin C-Rich Foods(natural anti-histamine):
- Kiwi
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
- Strawberries
- Copper-Rich Foods:
- Cashews
- Sunflower seeds
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Calcium Rich Foods
- Broccoli
- Beans
- Goat cheese
- Okra
- Almonds
Supplements to Support DAO Mutations
Targeted supplementation can help manage histamine levels, especially when dietary changes aren’t enough. Here are some of the most effective natural supplements for supporting DAO function and reducing histamine-related symptoms.
DAO Enzyme Supplements
DAO supplements contain the actual enzyme needed to break down histamine. Taking these before meals can help manage histamine from food.
Best For: Kids who react to high-histamine foods or have unpredictable flare-ups.
Take 15-20 minutes before meals that might contain higher histamine.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine that helps reduce histamine levels in the body and supports the DAO enzyme.
Try liposomal Vitamin C for better absorption and gentler on sensitive stomachs.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate)
Vitamin B6 is crucial for histamine metabolism and supports the proper function of the DAO enzyme.
Best For: Kids with mood swings, irritability, or fatigue related to histamine intolerance.
Dosage Tip: Use the active form (P-5-P) for better absorption.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a powerful flavonoid that stabilizes mast cells and reduces histamine release.
Look for quercetin combined with bromelain (an enzyme from pineapple) for enhanced absorption.
Watch for Hidden Triggers: Mold can drive up histamine levels.
Found primarily in the liver, these enzymes are responsible for breaking down and metabolizing a wide range of substances, including:
- Toxins
- Medications
- Hormones
- Environmental chemicals
Think of CYP enzymes as your body’s filter system, working behind the scenes to process and eliminate harmful substances. When these enzymes are functioning well, your child’s body can detox efficiently, balance hormones, and manage environmental exposures. But if they’re overloaded or not functioning optimally, it can lead to toxin buildup, inflammation, and even behavioral changes—especially in children with PANS/PANDAS, where detox pathways are already under stress.
🌿 Food is Medicine: Supporting CYP Enzymes Through Diet
The best way to support CYP function is by nourishing the liver, providing antioxidants, and incorporating healthy fats to ensure these detox pathways stay clear and efficient.
Liver-Supporting Foods
(The Detox Powerhouse)
Cruciferous Vegetables
(Help upregulate CYP enzymes and support detox pathways.)
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Cabbage
Sulfur-Rich Foods
(Boost glutathione—the body’s master antioxidant—which supports CYP detox pathways.)
- Garlic
- Onions
- Eggs
- Asparagus
Leafy Greens
(Rich in chlorophyll, which binds to toxins and supports liver function.)
- Spinach
- Swiss chard
- Collard greens
Beets
(Help increase bile flow, which is essential for eliminating toxins processed by CYP enzymes.)
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
(Protect Against Detox Stress)
Detoxification through CYP enzymes creates oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants help neutralize this stress and protect cells from damage.
Berries
(Rich in antioxidants to protect liver cells.)
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
- Raspberries
Green Tea
(Rich in catechins, which support liver detoxification.)
Turmeric
(Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory that supports detox pathways.)
Citrus Fruits
(Lemons, oranges, limes—rich in vitamin C to support antioxidant defenses.)
Healthy Fats for Optimal Detox
The liver needs healthy fats to function properly and process fat-soluble toxins.
Healthy Fats to Include:
- Avocados
- Olive oil (great for cooking or drizzling on veggies)
- Nuts and seeds (walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds)
- Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines—rich in omega-3s to reduce inflammation)
Supplements to Support CYP Detox Pathways
Sometimes, the body needs an extra boost to help CYP enzymes function at their best—especially when dealing with environmental toxins or mold exposure.
- Milk Thistle (Silymarin):
Protects liver cells and promotes regeneration. It’s especially helpful if your child is exposed to environmental toxins or mold. - NAC (N-acetylcysteine):
Supports glutathione production, which is essential for detoxification alongside CYP enzymes. - Alpha-Lipoic Acid:
A powerful antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress created during detox processes. - Magnesium:
Helps support detox pathways and protects against oxidative stress during detoxification.
The SLC (Solute Carrier) family of genes is like your body’s nutrient transportation system. These genes encode transporter proteins that help move essential nutrients, minerals, and neurotransmitters across cell membranes and into the brain, nerves, and other tissues. They play a crucial role in ensuring your child’s body gets the right building blocks to function properly—from vitamins and minerals to neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
When SLC genes aren’t working optimally, the body may have trouble absorbing nutrients, regulating neurotransmitters, or even detoxifying properly. This can lead to issues like nutrient deficiencies, mood imbalances, fatigue, and brain fog—especially in children with PANS/PANDAS, where nutrient transport and brain function are already under stress.
Food is Medicine: Supporting SLC Genes Through Diet
The key to supporting SLC gene function is ensuring your child gets nutrient-dense foods that are easy to absorb, alongside minerals and amino acids that support proper nutrient transport.
Magnesium-Rich Foods
(Magnesium supports many SLC transporters, helping regulate neurotransmitter activity and cellular energy.)
- Spinach
- Pumpkin seeds
- Black beans
- Almonds
- Avocados
Amino Acid-Rich Foods
(Amino acids like tryptophan and tyrosine are transported by SLC proteins and are crucial for neurotransmitter production.)
- Eggs (rich in tryptophan for serotonin production)
- Turkey (high in both tryptophan and tyrosine)
- Salmon (supports brain function and neurotransmitter balance)
- Lentils (plant-based protein for balanced neurotransmitter support)
- Cheese (rich in tyrosine for dopamine production)
Mineral-Rich Foods for Optimal Transport
Iron-Rich Foods
(Essential for oxygen transport and neurotransmitter synthesis.)
- Grass-fed beef
- Spinach (pair with vitamin C-rich foods like bell peppers for better absorption)
- Lentils
- Quinoa
Zinc-Rich Foods
(Supports neurotransmitter function and immune health.)
- Pumpkin seeds
- Chickpeas
- Cashews
- Grass-fed beef
Selenium-Rich Foods
(Protects against oxidative stress and supports detox pathways.)
- Brazil nuts (just 1-2 nuts provide the daily requirement)
- Eggs
- Sunflower seeds
Supplements to Support SLC Gene Function
When nutrient transport is impaired, targeted supplementation can help fill in the gaps and ensure proper neurotransmitter balance and detoxification.
- Magnesium (Glycinate or Threonate):
Supports cellular energy, neurotransmitter transport, and helps calm the nervous system. - Zinc:
Essential for neurotransmitter balance, immune function, and nutrient transport. - Amino Acid Complex (Tryptophan, Tyrosine, Glycine):
Provides the building blocks for serotonin and dopamine production, ensuring the brain gets the right nutrients. - Iron (if deficient):
Critical for oxygen transport and energy production. Always test before supplementing, as too much iron can be harmful. - Selenium:
Supports detoxification and protects cells from oxidative stress.
The GST (Glutathione S-Transferase) family of genes plays a critical role in your child’s detoxification system. These genes help produce glutathione, often called the body’s master antioxidant. Glutathione is essential for neutralizing harmful toxins, chemicals, heavy metals, and oxidative stress that can overwhelm the body—especially in children with PANS/PANDAS, where detox pathways are often sluggish or overburdened.
When GST genes aren’t functioning optimally, the body struggles to clear out toxins effectively. This can lead to toxin buildup, inflammation, and symptoms like:
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Increased sensitivity to environmental toxins (like mold, chemicals, or fragrances)
- Digestive issues or skin rashes
Food is Medicine: Supporting GST Genes Through Diet
The best way to support GST function is by boosting glutathione production and helping the body’s natural detox pathways with nutrient-dense foods.
Sulfur-Rich Foods
(Sulfur is a building block of glutathione and helps support the body’s detox pathways.)
- Garlic
- Onions
- Leeks
- Eggs (rich in sulfur-containing amino acids)
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
Glutathione-Boosting Foods
(These foods naturally increase glutathione levels in the body.)
- Avocados
- Spinach
- Zucchini
- Cabbage
Brussels sprouts
Selenium-Rich Foods
(Selenium is essential for the activity of glutathione enzymes and helps detoxify heavy metals.)
- Brazil nuts (just 1-2 per day provide your daily selenium needs)
- Sunflower seeds
- Eggs
- Brown rice
- Tuna (wild-caught is best)
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
(Neutralize oxidative stress created during detox and protect cells from damage.)
- Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- Green tea (rich in catechins that support liver detox)
- Turmeric (contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory)
- Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, limes—rich in vitamin C to boost glutathione production)
Supplements to Support GST and Glutathione Production
While food is the foundation, certain supplements can give the glutathione system a boost—especially in children exposed to toxins or dealing with detox challenges.
- NAC (N-Acetylcysteine):
A precursor to glutathione, NAC is one of the most effective ways to boost your body’s natural detox abilities. It helps clear out toxins and supports immune function. - Alpha-Lipoic Acid:
A powerful antioxidant that not only reduces oxidative stress but also helps recycle glutathione in the body. - Selenium:
Essential for glutathione enzyme activity and helps detoxify heavy metals like mercury. - Milk Thistle (Silymarin):
Protects liver cells and enhances glutathione production, making it easier for the liver to process toxins. - Vitamin C:
Supports glutathione recycling and helps protect against oxidative stress. - Glutathione (Liposomal):
In cases where the body struggles to produce enough on its own, direct glutathione supplementation can be helpful—liposomal forms are best absorbed.
Genetic insights provide more than just data—they offer a roadmap. Remember, genes load the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger. Armed with this knowledge, you can make choices that bring your child closer to recovery.