This blog is a way of sharing the information and resources that have helped me to recover my son Roo from an Autism Spectrum Disorder. What I have learned is to view our symptoms as the results of underlying biological cause, which can be identified and healed. I say "our symptoms" because I also have a neuro-immune disorder called Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

And, of course, I am not a doctor (although I have been known to impersonate one while doing imaginative play with my son)- this is just our story and information that has been helpful or interesting to us. I hope it is helpful and interesting to you!


Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Supplement Notes (Vitamins)

LETTER VITAMINS:

Bioavailability is the fraction of an administered compound that reaches the systemic circulation and is transported to site of action (target tissue).  From Linus Pauling Institute (LPI) 

B vitamins -  (B vitamins should be taken together to maintain the correct ratios of each)

B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy—A Review

B vitamins are essential cofactors for the functioning of the electron transport chain in the mitochondria.  They are also helpful to minimize the damage to organs and cells from diabetes.

B1 (thiamine) -  supports sugar metabolism.  Has a relaxing and calming effect.  Can reduce symptoms caused by high blood sugar, including tinnitus.

Folinic acid improves verbal communication in children with autism and language impairment: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

B6 (P5P is the active form) - important for connective tissue production and is an important cofactor in the regulation of neurotransmitters.

Biotin - is sometimes considered to be a B vitamin.  It is made by microbes in our gut and inhibits the yeast in our bodies from turning into it's invasive form (hyphae).  It can also help reduce or stop hair loss.  

B12 - deficiency can be caused by the drug Metformin, eating a vegan diet, and surgery that removes part of the bowel.  It can easily be mistaken for a folate deficiency.  A severe form of B12 deficiency can lead to a type of anemia called Pernicious Anemia because B12 is important for the production of red blood cells and DNA and for the nervous system to function. 

Vitamin C - supports immune function, is a potent antioxidant and important component in the formation of connective tissue.   Very high doses given intravenously have been used to successfully treat sepsis and skin cancer (and possibly other cancers).

Supplemental forms of vitamin C (from the Linus Pauling Institute)

Vitamin D
- significantly improves the absorption of calcium from the gut and helps our bodies to put that calcium where it is supposed to be and not where it isn't (calcification is a significant cause of many symptoms/conditions including cataracts, atherosclerosis, vertigo, and arthritis).  The preferred form is vitamin D3 and should be taken along with vitamin K2 (K2 is important for putting calcium into bones).

Vitamin E
- supports immune function and reduces inflammation.  It is important for healthy blood and circulation as a blood thinner; it dissolves fresh blood clots, reduces the need for oxygen in body tissues (deficiency of vitamin E increases tissue needs for oxygen, which is why it is connected with chest pain and angina), reduces muscle cramping, helps heal burns, and reduces scarring.  Good food sources include wheat germ oil (if not allergic), sunflower seeds, almonds, raw seeds and nuts, leafy greens, and avocado.

Vitamin K2 (D3/K2)

 OTHER VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS:

Melatonin is an antioxidant that can enter the mitochondria and protect them from oxidative stress, apoptosis, and impaired function (energy production).  Also supports glutathione production, has anticonvulsant properties, reduces the effect of autoimmune diseases, and helps support immune function.  It is best known for inducing sleep at night.