How Methylation May Influence Neurodiverse Conditions

Sarah W
Oct 10
3 min read

What is Methylation?

Think of your body like a big LEGO set.

Methylation is the process of adding little “LEGO caps” (called methyl groups) to different parts of your body’s chemistry to help them work properly.

These tiny caps help:

Turn genes on and off
Make and balance brain chemicals (like serotonin and dopamine)
Clear out histamine, toxins, and hormones
Support energy and the nervous system

When methylation is balanced, things run smoothly.

When it’s out of balance — either too slow or too fast — you may notice changes in mood, focus, energy, and sensitivity.

Under vs Over Methylation

	Undermethylation	Overmethylation
Description	Too few methyl “caps”	Too many methyl “caps”
Common Experiences	Overthinking, rumination, perfectionism, anxiety, fatigue	Racing thoughts, sensitivity, mood swings, over-stimulation
Brain Chemicals	Often lower serotonin/dopamine	Often higher serotonin/dopamine
Histamine	Higher levels (poor clearance)	Lower levels (fast clearance)
Common Overlaps	ADHD (inattentive), autism traits, MCAS, high histamine reactions	ADHD (hyperactive), mood instability, low energy, sensitivities

Many people experience a mix of both patterns at different times, especially during stress, hormonal changes, or illness.

How Methylation May Link to Common Conditions

ADHD – Methylation can influence brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine that affect attention and motivation.
Autism – Research suggests some autistic people may have different methylation activity, which can influence sensory sensitivity and emotional regulation.
MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) – Methylation helps break down histamine. When methylation is low, histamine can build up, leading to allergic-type symptoms.
POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) – Methylation helps regulate stress hormones and the autonomic nervous system, both linked to heart rate and energy regulation.
hEDS (Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) – While not caused by methylation, nervous system and immune imbalances that overlap with POTS and MCAS may be influenced by it.

Because these systems are all connected, supporting overall balance — rather than focusing only on one pathway — is often most helpful.

Ways to Learn More

You can work with a qualified health professional such as a:

Functional medicine GP
Integrative or nutritional doctor
Naturopath
Clinical nutritionist
(some may have additional training in methylation or the Walsh Protocol)

Ask about:

Whole blood histamine (a marker linked to methylation activity)
Homocysteine (can show how well methylation is functioning)
B vitamin and nutrient levels (especially B12, folate, B6, zinc, magnesium)
Genetic variations (like MTHFR, COMT, MTRR) — these show tendencies, not diagnoses
Hormone and inflammation markers, if relevant

A practitioner can interpret these results in context and guide next steps safely.

Supporting Methylation Balance (General Foundations)

These steps help support your body’s natural methylation processes and overall wellbeing:

Nourishing diet
- Include whole foods rich in natural B vitamins: leafy greens, eggs, fish, seeds, legumes
- Stay hydrated and reduce processed foods
- Manage histamine load if you’re sensitive (work with a professional)
Core nutrients
- Ensure adequate magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins
- Avoid high-dose supplements unless recommended
Stress and nervous system care
- Gentle movement, breathwork, rest, and sleep
- Reduce overstimulation where possible
Gut and immune health
- Support digestion and reduce inflammation
- Consider low-histamine support if MCAS is suspected
Lifestyle balance
- Manage environmental toxins (filtered water, natural products)
- Prioritise steady energy and pacing (especially with POTS or fatigue)

Key Takeaway

Methylation is like your body’s chemical switchboard, influencing brain, immune, and energy systems. If you experience a mix of symptoms — such as ruminating thoughts, sensitivities, fatigue, or focus challenges, it could be worthwhile exploring the concept of fluctuating methylation with a accredited practitioner who can interpret your individual picture.