As some of you are aware, I have been tirelessly researching plausible causes to explain the experiences of sanguinarians. Whether it be the symptoms we get from periods of not feeding, delving into the so-called “Beast,” or even why blood works so well as a nourishment source to begin with.

This section is broken up into three parts: FACT, SPECULATION, and SUPPORTING EVIDENCE. Within the latter, I will bracket my own SNPs to be further detailed, if anyone would like to do their own research. Homozygous means: the mutation was inherited from both parents, Heterozygous means: the mutation was inherited only from one parent.

FACT
Consistent use of SSRIs diminishes ‘The Beast,’ and to some extent, the hunger itself. 

SPECULATION
Our more primal, ‘aroused’ states are a response to prolonged stress (intestinal or otherwise),  which flood the system with neurotransmitters such as Serotonin.

This could be a reason why we tend to be more hungry (with or without the more debilitating symptoms) after a long day of dealing with very frustrating situations 😉

SUPPORTING EVIDENCE 
Mutations in the gene GAD1, which normally catalyzes production of GABA from glutamate, can cause high glutamate levels and low GABA levels, of which are associated with conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia. [Homozygous for both rs2241165 & rs3791850 mutations in GAD1]

Mutations in the gene MAO-A, which normally oxidizes serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, can both Increase and Decrease the expression of MAO-A depending on which mutation is being expressed. Some of you may know this one as “the Warrior Gene.” [Homozygous for rs2072743 – Increased Expression & rs6323 – Decreased expression.]

Interesting for those who suffer from terrible headaches from lack of feeding, rs2072743 in particular has been associated with Increased incidents of migraines.  And in rs6323 there is encouragement of increasing levels of Progesterone and avoid Estrogens and Androgens. Funny since we all tend to be very emotional critters, even the men.

Mutations in the gene MTHFR, which normally converts folic acid to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, can cause low BH4, excess ammonia, low nitric oxide, does NOT lead to high homocysteine, however high superoxide.  [Homozygous for rs1801131]

FACT
Chronic digestive ailments, often induced by waiting just a little too long to feed, are common among sanguinarians. 

SPECULATION
Intestinal malabsorption and poor conversion/production of vitamins could be a cause for our suffering, and in turn could be a reason why complex all-in-one nourishment (such as blood) offer a relief.

SUPPORTING EVIDENCE
Mutations in the gene BCMO1, a key enzyme in beta-carotene metabolism to vitamin A, can cause poor conversion of the vitamin. [Homozygous for rs7501331]

Mutations in the gene FUT2, a Fucosyltransferase 2 enzyme which determines ‘secretor status’, can cause reduced intestinal microbiota diversity. Interferes with absorption of B12. “The non-secretor individuals lacked, or were rarely colonized by, several genotypes related to B. bifidum, B. adolescentis and B. catenulatum/pseudocatenulatum. “  [Heterozygous for n rs492602, rs601338, rs602662] 

Further evidence is PENDING on my uBiome results to come in, but here are a couple cute little facts for your own entertainment…  I am a carrier of Variegate Porphyria and I am Prion Disease Resistant. Mwahaha… perhaps we are cannibals, after all!

Kinesia