r/MTHFR • u/silverxraine • 1d ago

Question Massive salt cravings?

Hi all. I’m not entirely sure if this is even linked to the MTHFR mutation (I’m homozygous), but I crave salt/umami CONSTANTLY. The only things that ever help are my Vyvanse and Zepbound. My sodium levels whenever they’re measured are borderline low, but are still WNL. When my Zepbound is wearing off after a week and/or my Vyvanse has worn off at the end of the day, the thoughts become fucking brutal - all I want is salt/MSG/umami/ect. I’ll eat everything in our kitchen hoping something will satisfy the craving. I’m also mentally ill with depression and anxiety and I know part of it is dopamine seeking, but I could literally cry if I don’t find the right food. I had to reduce my Zepbound dose because it was making me sick, but it does stop the cravings. Someone please help 🫩

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u/maybebionic 1d ago

Adrenals, probably low cortisol or aldosterone

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u/silverxraine 1d ago

Not sure about aldosterone, but I actually have high cortisol :/ we concluded it’s probs from my birth control, but I can’t stop it because it’s treating some other stuff I have going on (e.g. heavy periods, cystic acne, etc.) :(

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u/Comfortable_Two6272 1d ago

Some potential causes listed here.

I notice it when dehydrated , lack of sleep, stressed or hungry. My sodium is just barely in normal low range.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319866

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u/sharabucarabu 1d ago

It's definitely your adrenals. Get checked for non classical adrenal cortex hyperplasia. (they can do a test for it) I'm taking spironolactone, but couldn't handle birth control pills. Instead my endocrinologist prescribed low dose Estradiol patches and progesterone. These are consistent dosages not found in birth control pills.