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Understanding Glyphosate Sensitivity and Your CYP1A1 Genotype

Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide found in many agricultural and garden products. How your body responds to it depends in part on your detoxification capacity. The CYP1A1 gene helps produce an enzyme important for processing environmental toxins, including pesticides like glyphosate. Variations in this gene can change how efficiently your body detoxifies these chemicals, which may affect your cholinesterase levels, liver function, and overall resilience to chemical exposure.

How genetics matter

The CYP1A1 enzyme is part of the body s phase I detoxification system. When this enzyme is less active or functions differently because of genetic variation, toxins may be processed more slowly, creating more oxidative stress or increased burden on other detox pathways. Glyphosate and related compounds can lower cholinesterase activity, an enzyme important for nervous system function. People with certain CYP1A1 variants may be more likely to experience stronger effects from the same level of exposure.

What you can do to support detoxification

Regardless of genotype, steps that support liver health and reduce chemical burden can help your body process environmental toxins more effectively. The recommendations below are general wellness strategies designed to support detoxification, antioxidant defense, and nervous system health.

  • Diet: Favor organic produce when possible to reduce additional pesticide exposure. Emphasize cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale. Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to boost antioxidant intake. Include lean proteins like fish, poultry, legumes, and eggs to support liver repair and glutathione synthesis.
  • Fiber: Increase soluble and insoluble fiber from whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables to support gut elimination of toxins.
  • Hydration: Maintain adequate hydration to support kidney function and toxin clearance.
  • Healthy fats: Include omega 3 rich foods such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed to reduce inflammation and support brain and nervous system health.
  • Avoid excess alcohol and processed foods: Both increase liver workload and oxidative stress.

Supplements to consider

Supplements can support detox pathways but should be discussed with your healthcare provider before starting. Consider the following, especially if you have elevated environmental exposures or symptoms:

  • B complex vitamins to support methylation and phase I and II detoxification enzymes
  • Magnesium for over 300 enzymatic reactions and nervous system support
  • Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E and alpha lipoic acid to reduce oxidative stress
  • Milk thistle (silymarin) to support liver cell regeneration and phase II detoxification
  • N-acetylcysteine or dietary strategies to support glutathione production
  • Probiotics and prebiotic fiber to support gut barrier function and microbial metabolism of toxins

Lifestyle actions

  • Reduce exposure by choosing organic produce when possible and avoiding recently sprayed areas
  • Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and peel when appropriate
  • Minimize use of herbicides and pesticides at home
  • Exercise regularly to support circulation, lymphatic flow, and phase II detox pathways
  • Prioritize sleep and stress management because both are essential for effective detoxification
  • Consider indoor air quality improvements, such as ventilation and HEPA filtration, to reduce airborne residues

Genetic Interpretations

2 effect alleles (CC genotype at rs1048943): likely higher glyphosate sensitivity

You carry two copies of the C allele at rs1048943 in the CYP1A1 gene. This genotype is associated with reduced efficiency in the CYP1A1 enzyme that helps break down environmental toxins including glyphosate. As a result, your body may process glyphosate more slowly and experience a greater reduction in cholinesterase activity after exposure.

What this may mean for you

  • Increased sensitivity to glyphosate or similar organophosphate compounds compared to people with fewer effect alleles
  • Higher potential for oxidative stress and liver burden when exposed to pesticides
  • Greater benefit from proactive reduction of chemical exposures and stronger emphasis on supporting detoxification pathways

Suggested focus

  • Prioritize organic produce and avoid areas recently treated with herbicides
  • Work with a healthcare provider to evaluate liver function and cholinesterase levels if you suspect significant exposure
  • Consider the supplements and lifestyle supports listed above after discussing with your clinician
1 effect allele (CT genotype at rs1048943): likely moderate glyphosate sensitivity

You carry one copy of the C allele at rs1048943. This genotype suggests a modest reduction in CYP1A1 detoxification efficiency relative to people without the C allele. You may have a moderate increase in sensitivity to glyphosate and related compounds.

What this may mean for you

  • A somewhat increased likelihood of cholinesterase reduction and liver stress after exposure compared to individuals without the C allele
  • Benefits from reducing pesticide exposure and supporting detox pathways, though risk is generally lower than with two effect alleles

Suggested focus

  • Limit glyphosate exposure by choosing organic or thoroughly washed produce
  • Adopt dietary and supplement strategies that support antioxidant capacity and liver detoxification
  • Monitor symptoms and discuss targeted testing with your healthcare provider if you experience neurological or systemic signs after exposure
0 effect alleles (TT genotype at rs1048943): likely typical glyphosate sensitivity

You carry two copies of the T allele at rs1048943. This genotype is associated with a standard CYP1A1 enzyme function for processing environmental toxins such as glyphosate. Your detoxification of glyphosate is likely within the typical range.

What this may mean for you

  • Normal CYP1A1 enzyme activity for handling environmental exposures
  • Standard risk for glyphosate sensitivity relative to the general population

Suggested focus

  • Continue general toxin reduction and liver supportive practices listed above
  • Follow standard public health recommendations regarding pesticide exposure and product labels

When to talk to your healthcare provider

  • If you have known or suspected significant glyphosate or pesticide exposure
  • If you experience neurological symptoms, unexplained fatigue, or other concerning signs after chemical exposure
  • Before starting supplements or making major dietary changes, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or have chronic health conditions

PlexusDx provides genetic education and interpretation for informational purposes only. This information is not medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making health decisions, starting supplements, or changing medications based on genetic information.