Fact-Checking Gary Brecka on Rogan: A Deep Dive into MTHFR and Methylation
Nov 14, 2023
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A critique of Gary Brekka's lack of scientific background and limitations of his DNA test. Refutation of the claim that everything entering our bodies needs to be methylated. Discussion on specific targets and functions of methylation. Explanation of the conversion of T4 to T3 in the body, including iodine atom removal and replacement.
Genes do not hold all the answers, as everyone has highly unique genetic mutations.
Not everything in our bodies needs to be methylated to be activated, as shown by the conversion of T4 to T3.
Deep dives
Questionable DNA test recommendations
The podcast episode discusses how Gary Brekka, despite doing great work in spreading knowledge about the power of nutrition, lacks a rigorous science background. This leads him to oversimplify things, particularly when it comes to recommending a $500 DNA test that only covers 5 genes, as if those genes hold all the answers. The speaker asserts that everyone has highly unique genetic mutations and there aren't just 5 genes that can provide answers for everyone.
Points of agreement and disagreement
The speaker highlights areas of agreement with Brekka, such as the importance of treating deficiencies of raw materials, the negative impact of folic acid, the influence of nutrition on mental health, the drawbacks of seed oils, and the benefits of morning sunshine, grounding, breath work, and cold exposure. However, the speaker disagrees with Brekka's understanding of methylation and basic biochemistry. The speaker argues that Brekka's biology background, limited to the undergraduate level, is evident in his misunderstandings, such as the belief that everything in our bodies needs to be methylated to be activated. The speaker provides an example to debunk this belief by explaining the conversion of T4 to T3, highlighting that it is not achieved through methylation, but rather by removing an iodine atom and replacing it with a hydrogen atom.