01/17/2025
The super important but often overlooked PEMT gene deserves a deeper look if you have any stage of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, bile flow concerns, liver enzyme markers that are elevated or have anxiety. SIBO is also more likely with this gene.
If one has 2 copies of certain PEMT SNPs like rs12325817 (one from each parent), then conversion of phosphatidylethanolamine to phosphatidylcholine by methylation in the liver is usually impaired to some degree. Even having 1 copy can necessitate the need as well for extra choline in the diet.
I share this as it's very common yet overshadowed by other SNPs like MTHFR. I took a deeper dive on it this summer when my son had GI issues and an ultrasound showed fat in his liver. And he's a kid who has been on an organic nutrient dense diet his whole life. He also had the other symptoms associated with PEMT - and sure enough he has 2 copies of PEMT on two SNPs most common with issues. BodyBio PC (or other high quality brands like Quicksilver or Seeking Health, TMG and a diet rich in foods that are higher in choline helps.
The foods highest in bioavailable choline are animal foods. Eggs (especially the yolks) top the list. Then liver, meat, fish and dairy. Though it's found in plant foods like cruciferous vegetables, those not eating animal foods will likely need supplementation for long-term health (especially if a person has PEMT +/+ genes).
What is the PEMT gene? PEMT is in charge of phosphatidylcholine production, and variants in the gene may increase your need for dietary choline.
