COMT: The Warrior Gene

The following is part of our informational series that clarifies some of what you'll learn about your nutritional genetics after you've submitted your DNA Essentials Plus test.

How will you score?

Your Pure Essentials nutritional genetics report will include a score for the warrior gene!

The COMT gene creates an enzyme that breaks down dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and estrogen. These chemicals play a major role in mood, stress response, and productivity. Estrogen needs to be balanced and reduced appropriately to avoid issues. COMT does require the methylation cycle, with magnesium being required in adequate amounts.

Your DNA test will indicate that you have either fast or slow COMT activity. Each comes with its own set of challenges.

Warrior or Worrier?

People with a fast COMT are "warriors". They have been shown to have a higher pain threshold, are capable of operating under adverse stress, and have lower levels of anxiety.

Slower versions of the COMT may be described as "worriers". They have a lower pain threshold, increased sensitivity to stress and increased anxiety. However, those characteristics are also balanced out with an advantage in the memory and attention-based task department.

Signs your fast COMT gene needs some attention include poor focus, forgetfulness, low mood (pessimism), poor motivation, and low energy. Warriors may struggle with hormonal changes like postpartum, perimenopause, or menopause. Carbs may boost your mood in the short term but crash later, even feeling like you “need” a coffee or chocolate is a sign.

Slow COMT genes need attention when you’re getting frequent headaches, feeling restless or worried, have PMS / fibroids / and other estrogen-related disorders. Being sensitive to caffeine, chocolate, or green tea is another indicator of slow COMT.

Excessive amounts of life overload (intense work / school, relationship stress), too much animal fat, lack of folate, B12, and magnesium can cause the COMT gene to be out of whack.

When we know how or why our bodies and brains respond in certain ways, it becomes easier to know what to do about it. That's exactly that intent of your nutritional genetics test -- to test, learn, and then put a plan in motion to address potential issues, all with your health and wellness as priority one.