Transsulfuration | CBS (rs6586282)

What it means

This genotype is associated with reduced CBS enzyme activity. You may have less efficient conversion of homocysteine to cystathionine, which can lead to higher homocysteine and lower glutathione production. Reduced glutathione may increase oxidative stress and lower detox capacity. The methylation pathway may need to work harder to keep homocysteine in check.

Diet Recommendations

• Focus on a balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruit, lean protein, and low processed foods.
• Include foods high in vitamin B6 such as poultry, fish, potatoes, and bananas.
• Eat methyl donor foods: leafy greens, beets, legumes, eggs and lean meats for natural folate, choline, and B12 support.
• Moderate high sulfur foods if you notice sensitivity. Examples include garlic, onion, cruciferous vegetables, and high sulfur protein supplements.
• Prioritize sulfur foods gradually and monitor symptoms like gas, headaches, or intolerance.

Supplement Recommendations

• Pyridoxal 5 phosphate or vitamin B6 to support CBS enzyme activity. Start with a low dose and adjust with guidance.
• Methylated B vitamins such as 5-MTHF and methylcobalamin to support methylation and lower homocysteine.
• NAC or glycine to provide glutathione precursors and support antioxidant capacity.
• Antioxidants like vitamin C and alpha lipoic acid to help reduce oxidative stress.
• Consider a comprehensive B complex rather than single B supplementation to maintain balance.

Lifestyle and Other Considerations

• Manage stress with regular sleep, moderate exercise, meditation, or breathing practices. Stress can worsen methylation and sulfur balance.
• Aim for consistent sleep habits to support detoxification and repair.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking which increase oxidative stress and homocysteine.

Recommended Tests

• Plasma homocysteine level to check clearance.
• Comprehensive metabolic panel and liver function tests if detox symptoms are present.
• Glutathione or markers of oxidative stress if available.

What it means

This genotype may lead to moderately reduced CBS activity. Under normal conditions your transsulfuration and methylation pathways may function well. During stress, inflammation, or nutrient shortages you may see mild imbalances. Proactive support can keep pathways balanced.

Diet Recommendations

• Maintain a nutrient dense diet with emphasis on whole foods and diverse plant sources.
• Include vitamin B6 rich foods and steady sources of folate and B12 such as leafy greens, eggs, fish and lean meats.
• Include sulfur containing foods but tune intake to tolerance. Monitor symptoms and reduce excess if sensitive.

Supplement Recommendations

• Consider a B complex with B6, 5-MTHF, and methylcobalamin if blood work shows borderline homocysteine or low B status.
• Support glutathione production with glycine or NAC when needed, especially during periods of higher oxidative stress.
• A general antioxidant support such as vitamin C and vitamin E can be helpful.

Lifestyle and Other Considerations

• Prioritize stress reduction and consistent sleep.
• Engage in regular moderate exercise to support circulation and detoxification.
• Avoid chronic alcohol use and reduce exposure to environmental toxins.

Recommended Tests

• Periodic homocysteine testing during life transitions, illness, or symptoms.
• Basic nutrient testing for B vitamins if symptoms suggest deficiency.

What it means

This genotype is associated with normal CBS activity. Your body should efficiently convert homocysteine to cystathionine and support glutathione production under most conditions. Maintaining a nutrient rich diet and healthy lifestyle will help preserve this balance.

Diet Recommendations

• Continue a balanced diet with a mix of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Include foods that provide B6, folate, B12 and sulfur containing amino acids to support ongoing transsulfuration and methylation.

Supplement Recommendations

• Most individuals with normal activity do well with a multivitamin or B complex if diet is inconsistent.
• Use targeted supplements only if testing or symptoms indicate a need.

Lifestyle and Monitoring

• Maintain healthy habits for long term support: sleep, exercise, stress management, and limiting alcohol and tobacco use.
• Routine health check ups and periodic blood work are reasonable to confirm nutrient and metabolic status.