How to prepare
No specific preparation is required. No fasting is needed. Because this is a genetic test using DNA from your white blood cells, the result is the same regardless of when or how the blood is drawn. You only need to take this test once.
After the test
Share your result with your GP, integrative medicine practitioner, or a practitioner familiar with methylation assessment. MTHFR variants are common — they are not a disease diagnosis — and most people with variants have no symptoms. However, a positive finding provides context for elevated homocysteine or B-vitamin concerns and may inform supplementation decisions. Practitioners may recommend methylated forms of folate (5-MTHF) or B12 (methylcobalamin or hydroxocobalamin) rather than standard folic acid or cyanocobalamin.
Your test results will be available in your private dashboard. If there are any urgent issues, we'll let you know so you can follow up with your health professional.
Understanding results
The test reports your genotype for each variant (C677T and A1298C). Possible results for each:
- Negative (wild type): No variant detected at this position
- Heterozygous: One copy of the variant (one from each parent) — moderate impact on enzyme activity
- Homozygous: Two copies of the same variant — greater impact on enzyme activity
C677T homozygous: Associated with the greatest reduction in MTHFR enzyme activity (approximately 70% reduction). Highest association with elevated homocysteine, particularly when folate and B12 are not optimal.
A1298C homozygous: Associated with a more modest reduction in enzyme activity.
Compound heterozygous (one C677T + one A1298C): Also associated with reduced enzyme function — clinical significance is intermediate between the two homozygous states.
The significance of MTHFR variants is most meaningful when interpreted alongside actual homocysteine, folate, and B12 levels rather than as an isolated genetic finding.