Autism Supplement Guide
Table Of Contents
---Choose A Vitamin---
Vitamin A [Retinol]
Vitamin B1 [Thiamine]
Vitamin B2 [Riboflavin]
Vitamin B3 [Niacin]
Vitamin B5 [Pantothenic Acid]
Vitamin B6 [Pyridoxine]
Vitamin B12 [Cobalamin]
Vitamin B8 [Biotin]
Vitamin B9 [Folic Acid]
Vitamin B12 [Cyanocobalamin]
Vitamin C
Vitamin D [Calciferol]
Vitamin E
Vitamin K1, K2
---Choose A Mineral---
Calcium
Magnesium
Iron
Iodine
Zinc
Copper
Manganese
Chromium
Molybdenum
Selenium
Sodium
Potassium
Vanadium
---Choose An Enzyme---
Digestive Enzymes
---Choose A Probiotic---
Probiotics
Essential Fatty Acids
Amino Acids
Glutathione
Carnosine
Carnitine
Lysine
Taurine
---Choose An Anti-Fungal---
Virastop Enzyme
Olive Leaf Extract
Grapefruit Seed Extract [GSE]
Grapeseed Extract
Oil of Oregano
Uva Ursi
Caprylic Acid
Garlic
Lauricidin
---Choose Other---
MSM
Coenzyme Q10 [CoQ10]
DMG
TMG
Milk Thistle Seed [Silymarin]
Vinpocetine
Melatonin
Valerian
Chelation
Alpha Lipoic Acid [ALA]
Helps with vision, immune system, and acne. Deficiency can cause blindness, impaired growth, weight loss, improper tooth and bone formation, and deficient immune function. Stored in the tissues, so taking too much can result in toxicity. Carotenes [like beta carotene] are not vitamin A, they must be converted by the body into vitamin A. This conversion process requires zinc, selenium, vitamin C, and thyroid hormone. Most autistic children do not convert carotenes into vitamin A, so non-carotene forms are required, like retinyl acetate, palmitate, or cod liver oil. It is vital to use unsaturated "cis" vitamin A, as found in cold-water fish such as salmon or cod, as well as liver, kidney and milk fat. Vitamin A is s a fat-soluble vitamin. It is found in animal sources, such as eggs, meat, fish, milk, cheese. Beta carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A, is found in vegetable sources such as carrots, squashes, and most dark green, leafy vegetables. Taking excessive amounts of vitamin A over a very short period o f time can lead to toxic symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, and muscular lack of coordination. It can also tinge the skin orange.
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Vitamin A
Age
Children
Males
Females
Pregnancy
Lactation
1-3
300
4-8
400
9-13
600
14-18
900
700
750
1,200
19+
900
700
770
1,300
References:
Vitamin A - Merck Manual Vitamin A - General Information
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Helps with vision, immune system, and acne. Deficiency can cause blindness, impaired growth, weight loss, improper tooth and bone formation, and deficient immune function. Stored in the tissues, so taking too much can result in toxicity. Carotenes [like beta carotene] are not vitamin A, they must be converted by the body into vitamin A. This conversion process requires zinc, selenium, vitamin C, and thyroid hormone. Most autistic children do not convert carotenes into vitamin A, so non-carotene forms are required, like retinyl acetate, palmitate, or cod liver oil. It is vital to use unsaturated "cis" vitamin A, as found in cold-water fish such as salmon or cod, as well as liver, kidney and milk fat. Vitamin A is s a fat-soluble vitamin. It is found in animal sources, such as eggs, meat, fish, milk, cheese. Beta carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A, is found in vegetable sources such as carrots, squashes, and most dark green, leafy vegetables.Taking excessive amounts of vitamin A over a very short period of time can lead to toxic symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, and muscular lack of coordination. It can also tinge the skin orange.
References:
Vitamin B1 - Merck Manual
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Cell energy vitamin. Can help prevent migraine headaches. Imipramine and antibiotics can deplete B2. Deficiencies can cause cracks in corners of mouth, visual and language problems, and seborrhea. It eases watery eye fatigue and may be helpful in the prevention and treatment of cataracts. Vitamin B2 is required for the health of the mucus membranes in the digestive tract and helps with the absorption of iron and vitamin B6.
References:
Vitamin B2 - Merck Manual
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Lowers bad cholesterol. Too much can cause "niacin flush" [red, hot, clammy skin, nausea, hot flashes]. A non-flush form is Inositol. Vegetable sources include the husk of the cereals, green vegetables, peas, beans, tomatoes etc. whole wheat meal contains small amount of this vitamin. Animal sources are meat, fish, liver, milk, yeast etc. it has also been produced synthetically. Body can synthesize this vitamin from tryptopahn. Niacin deficiency results in pellagra. Three D"s, diarrhea, dermatitis and dementia, characterize this disease.
References:
Vitamin B3 - Merck Manual
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Required for proper adrenal function. Helps in handling stress, fatigue, allergies. Can help lower cholesterol. Stops teeth grinding for some kids. Animal sources: include liver, kidney, egg-yolk, yeast, milk etc. are the richest sources of this vitamin. Vegetable sources: molasses, wheat bran, peas, sweet potatoes, etc. contain this vitamin in appreciable amounts.
References:
Vitamin B5 - Merck Manual
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Helps with the metabolism of the amino acids. Helps with PMS, carpal tunnel syndrome, and motion sickness. Deficiencies can cause weakness, confusion, depression, eczema. Birth control pills, antibiotics, and smoking can deplete B6. Can help with epilepsy, asthma, morning sickness, and kidney stones. Too much B6 over a prolonged period of time can lead to peripheral neuropathy [tingling and other sensations]. Can help heal "leaky gut". Some kids need very high doses, which can be helpful for focus/attention, body awareness, a "calmness", and elimination of climbing and jumping behaviors. However, for some kids, especially those with phenol intolerance, B6 can cause hyperactivity. Vitamin B-6 is a water-soluble vitamin and is part of the vitamin B complex. It is found in beans, nuts, legumes, eggs, meats, fish, whole grains, and fortified breads and cereals. Taking excessive amounts of vitamin B6 can cause a magnesium deficiency. It is important to give magnesium alongside Vitamin B6 to avoid this problem.
References:
Vitamin B6 - Merck Manual Buy Vitamin B at Autism-Supplements.com
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Works with folic acid for cell division and formation of nerve cells. Provides energy, helpful for fatigue. It contains cobalt, therefore it is also known as cobalamin. Helps with depression, asthma, MS, and shingles. Birth control pills, antacids, antibiotics, and certain seizure medications can deplete B12. Methyl is the preferred form, not cyano. Deficiency can cause anemia and memory loss. Most helpful as injections, also can be helpful as sublingual or oral. Helps some kids acquire language. Can cause scripting [repeating lines from videos verbatim] at higher doses for some kids, including mine, but when I added TMG the scripting stopped. Can cause hyper, head banging, or other negative behaviors for some kids especially if not given with folic acid.
References:
Vitamin B12 - Merck Manual
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Manufactured by good bacteria in the gut. Helpful for healthy hair and nails, cradle cap, hair loss, and diabetes. Depletes magnesium, so can cause constipation and muscle cramps unless given with magnesium. It is present in all common articles of food especially in yeast, egg-yolk, kidney, liver, cauliflower, peas.
References:
Vitamin B8 - Merck Manual
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Helps with depression and memory issues. Prevents neural tube defects in newborns [cleft palate, spina bifida]. Can help with osteoporosis. Deficiencies include anemia, depression, memory issues, and tooth decay. Steroids, birth control pills, and antacids can deplete folic acid. Required for some kids to eliminate negative effects of B12. For kids who don"t absorb nutrients well, can be given as folinic acid. Folic acid occurs in food in two forms: free folates and bound folates. The total folates represent both the groups. In man free folate is rapidly absorbed, primarily from the proximal part of small intestine. The availability of bound folated is uncertain.Liver, kidney, green-leafy vegetables and cauliflower are good sources of this vitamin. Overcooking destroys much of folic acid and thus contributes to folate deficiency in humans.
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Vitamin B9
Age
Males and Females
Pregnancy
Lactation
1-3
150
N/A
N/A
4-8
200
N/A
N/A
9-13
300
N/A
N/A
14-18
400
600
500
19+
400
600
500
References:
Vitamin B9 - Merck Manual
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Vitamin B12 is not found in foods of vegetable origin. Bacteria in colon also synthesize it. Unlike folic acid, vitamin B12 is heat stable. This vitamin is found in the fungus Streptomyces griseus. Hence vitamin B12 is obtained as a by-product in the manufacture of Streptomycin. Essential for the formation and maturation of red blood cells. It is essential for maintaining the functional integrity of the myelinated fibres of the central nervous system and the peripheral nerves. Good sources of vitamin B12 for vegetarians are dairy products or free-range eggs.
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for vitamin B12 for children and adults
Age
Males and Females
Pregnancy
Lactation
1-3
0.9
N/A
N/A
4-8
1.2
N/A
N/A
9-13
1.8
N/A
N/A
14-18
2.4
2.6
2.8
19 and older
2.4
2.6
2.8
References:
Vitamin B12 - Merck Manual
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Deficiency can cause scurvy [bleeding gums, easy bruising, weak bones, poor wound healing, susceptible to infection]. Helpful for colds and other viral issues, allergies, asthma, arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, and skin issues. Anti-oxidant, clears metals from the blood. Works with vitamin E and glutathione. Most commercial vitamin C is made from corn, if your child does not tolerate corn, you can consider TwinLabs Allergy C, which is made from sago palm. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for normal growth and development. It is found in all fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C also acts as an anti-oxidant, protecting the body against damage from free radicals.Taking excessive amounts of vitamin C is difficult to do because it is water soluble and is regularly excreted by the body. Therefore, toxicity is very rare. High doses can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea.
References:
Vitamin C - Merck Manual
Vitamin C - General Information
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Converted from sunlight by the skin. Helpful for osteoporosis by promoting calcium absorption. Deficiency causes rickets [bowed legs, knock knees, softening of bones]. Too much can cause damage to tissues and organs, kidney stones, and headaches. Contraindicated with certain medications. Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that is found in food and can also be made in your body after exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Vitamin D is unique because it is derived both from sunlight and foods. Vitamin D is synthesized by the body by the action of UV rays of sunlight on 7-dehydroxycholesterol, which is stored in the skin in large amounts. Vitamin occurs in foods of animal origin. Liver, egg yolk, butter and cheese and some species of fish contain useful amounts of Vitamin D. Fish liver oil are the richest source of vitamin D. Taking excessive amounts of Vitamin D can cause nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, constipation, weakness, and weight loss. It can also raise blood levels of calcium, causing mental status changes such as confusion.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Vitamin D
Age
Children
Men
Women
Pregnancy
Lactation
Birth to 13 years
5 mcg
14-18 years
5 mcg
5 mcg
5 mcg
5 mcg
19-50 years
5 mcg
5 mcg
5 mcg
5 mcg
51-70 years
10 mcg
10 mcg
71+ years
15 mcg
15 mcg
References:
Vitamin D - Merck Manual
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Helps with fertility. Antioxidant, fat soluble. Helps immune system. Deficiency can cause nerve problems, muscle weakness, anemia, skin issues, and weak immune system. Check with doctor if you are taking blood thinning medications or aspirin. Usually made from soy, if your child does not tolerate soy, you might need to give this with an enzyme that digests soy. Vitamin E is widely distributed in foods. By far the richest sources are vegetable oils, cottonseed, sunflower seed, egg yolk and butter. Foods rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids are also rich in vitamin E. animal sources rich in vitamin A are egg, milk, fish and muscles. Vegetable sources are vegetable seed oils, especially wheat, soybean, corn and leafy vegetables.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Vitamin E
Age
Children
Men
Women
Pregnancy
Lactation
1-3
6 mg
4-8
7 mg
9-13
11 mg
11 mg
15 mg
19 mg
14 +
15 mg
15 mg
15 mg
19 mg
References:
Vitamin E - Merck Manual
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Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) is dietary vitamin K. Dietary fat enhances its absorption. Infant formulas contain supplemental vitamin K. Vitamin K2 refers to a group of compounds (menaquinones) synthesized by bacteria in the intestinal tract; the amount synthesized does not satisfy the vitamin K requirement.Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) is not toxic when consumed orally, even in large amounts. Vegetable sources are rich, such as cabbage, spinach, alfalfa, tomato, and soyabin. However, menadione (a synthetic, water-soluble vitamin K precursor) can cause toxicity and should not be used to treat vitamin K deficiency.
References:
Vitamin K1,K2 - Merck Manual
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Used by muscles, nerves, heart, hormones, and bones and teeth. Deficiency can cause osteoporosis, some kids will push on their eyeballs. Caffeine, alcohol, sugar, smoking, and a high protein diet can deplete calcium. Calcium absorption requires vitamin D, vitamin C, and magnesium. Best absorbed if taken with food. Can interfere with iron and zinc absorption. Calcium is readily available from many sources. By far the best natural sources are milk and milk products e.g. cheese, curd, eggs and fish. The cheapest dietary sources are green leafy vegetables, cereals and millets. The limiting factor in the complete absorption of calcium from green leafy vegetables is the presence of oxalic acid with which calcium forms an insoluble compound; calcium oxalate, which interferes with the absorption of calcium Ragi, is a rich source of calcium. Rice is very deficient in calcium. The bioavailability of calcium from cereals is poor because of the presence of phytic acid, which forms an insoluble compound with calcium, calcium phytate. Other sources of calcium are peas, beans, soybeans, lentils, and potatoes. When the level of calcium in the body fluids rises above normal, the nervous system is depressed, and reflex activities of the central nervous system can become sluggish. Also increased calcium ion concentration decreases the QT interval of the heart and causes constipation and lack of appetite, probably because of the depressed contractility of the muscle walls of the gastrointestinal tract.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Calcium
Male and Female Age
Calcium (mg/day)
Pregnancy & Lactation
0 to 6 months
210
N/A
7 to 12 months
270
N/A
1 to 3 years
500
N/A
4 to 8 years
800
N/A
9 to 13 years
1300
N/A
14 to 18 years
1300
1300
19 to 50 years
1000
1000
51+ years
1200
N/A
References:
Calcium - General Information
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Deficiency can cause muscle cramps, "restless legs", constipation, fatigue, irritability, poor coordination, high blood pressure, kidney stones, insomnia. Steroids, birth control pills, and a few other medications can deplete magnesium. Too much magnesium will usually result in diarrhea. Green vegetables such as spinach are good sources of magnesium because the center of the chlorophyll molecule (which gives green vegetables their color) contains magnesium. Some legumes (beans and peas), nuts and seeds, and whole, unrefined grains are also good sources of magnesium. Refined grains are generally low in magnesium. When white flour is refined and processed, the magnesium-rich germ and bran are removed. Bread made from whole grain wheat flour provides more magnesium than bread made from white refined flour. Tap water can be a source of magnesium, but the amount varies according to the water supply. Water that naturally contains more minerals is described as hard. Hard water contains more magnesium than soft water. Dietary magnesium is not harmful for the health, however pharmacologic doses of magnesium in supplements can promote adverse effects such as diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Risk of magnesium toxicity increases with kidney failure, when the kidney loses the ability to remove excess magnesium. Very large doses of magnesium-containing laxatives and antacids also have been associated with magnesium toxicity. Signs of excess magnesium can be similar to magnesium deficiency and include changes in mental status, nausea, diarrhea, appetite loss, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, extremely low blood pressure, and irregular heart beat.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Magnesium
Age
Male
Female
Pregnancy
Lactation
1-3
80
80
N/A
N/A
4-8
130
130
N/A
N/A
9-13
240
240
N/A
N/A
14-18
410
360
400
360
19-30
400
310
350
310
31+
420
320
360
320
References:
Magnesium - Merck Manual
Magnesium - General Information
Magnesium and Vitamin B6 - General Information
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Required for oxygen transport by red blood cells, enzyme reactions, and energy. Deficiency can cause anemia, fatigue, loss of memory and concentration, pale skin, pica [eating non-edible objects, this can also be caused by zinc deficiency], cracks in corners of mouth, and spoon-shaped nails. Lack of iron directly affects the immune system; it diminishes the number of T- cells and the production of antibodies. Besides haemoglobin, iron is a component of myoglobin, the cytochromes, catalase and certain enzyme systems. Too much iron can cause digestive damage, nausea and vomiting, liver failure, and other issues. Best absorbed with vitamin C, folic acid, and B12. Calcium, magnesium, zinc, and antibiotics can interfere with iron absorption. Some forms [like ferrous sulfate] are not well-absorbed, and can cause constipation. Iron is necessary for many functions in the body including formation of haemoglobin, brain development and function, regulation of body temperature, muscle activity and catecholamine metabolism. Good sources of dietary iron include red meat, fish, poultry, lentils, beans, leaf vegetables, tofu, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, fortified bread, and fortified breakfast cereals. Iron in low amounts is found in molasses, teff and farina.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Iron
Age
Males
Females
Pregnancy
Lactation
7 to 12 months
11
11
N/A
N/A
1 to 3 years
7
7
N/A
N/A
4 to 8 years
10
10
N/A
N/A
9 to 13 years
8
8
N/A
N/A
14 to 18 years
11
15
27
10
19 to 50 years
8
18
27
9
51+ years
8
8
N/A
N/A
References:
Iron - Merck Manual
Iron - General Information
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Required for proper thyroid function. Deficiency can cause goiter. Children with autism have low levels of iodine (needed for proper thyroid functioning and to prevent mental retardation). Iodine deficiency is the most common worldwide cause of mental retardation. The best sources of iodine are sea foods (e.g. sea fish, sea salt) and cod liver oil. Smaller amounts occur in other foods e.g. milk, meat, vegetables, cereals etc. the iodine content of fresh water is small and very variable, about 1-50 micrograms. About 90 percent of iodine comes from foods eaten; the remainder from drinking water. The iodine content of the soil determines its presence in both water and locally grown foods.
References:
Iodine - Merck Manual
Iodine - General Information
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Required for numerous enzymatic and hormone activity, immune function, wound healing, proper vitamin A metabolism, bone formation. Can help with adolescent acne. Calcium can hinder absorption of zinc. Can cause nausea if taken on empty stomach. The body needs a proper zinc/copper ratio. Most autistic kids are low zinc and high copper, although some are the other way around. Zinc is present in a wide variety of foods, particularly in association with protein foods. A vegetarian diet often contains less zinc than a meat based diet and so it is important for vegetarians to eat plenty of foods that are rich in this vital mineral. Good sources for vegetarians include dairy products, beans and lentils, yeast, nuts, seeds and wholegrain cereals. Pumpkin seeds provide one of the most concentrated vegetarian food sources of zinc. Zinc can help pica [eating inedible objects], chewing on shirts, licking hands, mouthing objects, and other oral behaviors.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Zinc
Age
Male
Female
Pregnant
Lactating
Birth to 6 months
2 mg
2 mg
7 months to 3 years
3 mg
3 mg
4 to 8 years
5 mg
5 mg
9 to 13 years
8 mg
8 mg
14 to 18 years
11 mg
9 mg
13 mg
14 mg
19+ years
11 mg
8 mg
11 mg
12 mg
References:
Zinc - Merck Manual
Zinc - General Information
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Copper is an essential trace mineral that is vitally important for both physical and mental health. Copper acts as a catalyst in the formation of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying blood component. The highest concentrations in the body tissue are found in the liver and certain areas of the central nervous system, particularly the brain. Copper is stored in the liver and excreted in bile salts. Food sources of copper includes whole grain cereals, legumes, oysters, organ meats, cherries, dark chocolate, fruits, leafy green vegetables, nuts, poultry, prunes, soybeans, tofu, shellfish, oysters, beef or lamb liver, Brazil nuts, blackstrap molasses, cocoa, and black pepper.
References:
Copper - Merck Manual
Copper - General Information
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Important for bone structure and proper utilization of B vitamins. Manganese is a trace mineral that helps the body convert protein and fat to energy. It also promotes normal bone growth, helps maintain healthy reproductive, nervous, and immune systems, and is involved in blood sugar regulation. In addition, manganese is involved in blood clotting and the formation of cartilage and lubricating fluid in the joints. Manganese is found in large quantities in plants and animals, but very little of this element is found in human tissue. Manganese is predominantly stored in the bones, liver, kidney, and pancreas. It is not yet known exactly how magnesium in absorbed in the body, although its availability seems to be tied in some way to iron absorption; increased amounts of iron in the diet usually coincide with decreased manganese levels. Taking magnesium supplements has also been shown to inhibit manganese absorption. Good natural sources of manganese include avocados, nuts and seeds, seaweed, tea, raisins, pineapple, spinach, broccoli, oranges, beans, whole grains, blueberries, egg yolks, dried peas, and green leafy vegetables. Many herbs also contain manganese, such as alfalfa, burdock root, chamomile, dandelion, fenugreek, ginseng, hops, horsetail, lemongrass, parsley, peppermint, wild yam, and raspberry.
References:
Manganese - Merck Manual
Manganese - General Information
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Can reduce craving for sweets by helping to regulate blood sugar levels, enhances the body"s use of insulin. Works together with vanadium. Chromium helps to prevent and lower high blood pressure. It can also deter diabetes because it works with insulin in the metabolism of blood sugar. This trace mineral helps transport protein where it is needed in your body. Chromium is stored principally in the kidneys, spleen and testes, with trace amounts found in the heart, lungs, pancreas and brain. The body cannot easily absorb chromium. Chromium helps the body regulate metabolism, and regulate insulin and blood sugar levels. Chromium helps the body lose weight by stimulating enzymes that metabolize glucose for energy. It plays an important role in the liver synthesis of fatty acids (burns fat). When the body is deficient in chromium, twice the amount of time is needed for insulin to remove glucose from the blood. Chromium enhances insulin performance and glucose utilization and helps carry proteins. Chromium works best if taken before meals. Refined sugar causes the body to deplete chromium more rapidly. Strenuous exercise can also deplete chromium levels. Natural sources of chromium are corn oil, cloves, whole grain cereals, meat, and brewer"s yeast. Optimal level can be obtained from dietary sources. Chromium helps the body regulate metabolism, and regulate insulin and blood sugar levels. Chromium helps the body lose weight by stimulating enzymes that metabolize glucose for energy.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Chromium
Age
Infants and children (mcg/day)
Males
Females
Pregnancy
Lactation
0 to 6 months
0.2
7 to 12 months
5.5
1 to 3 years
11
4 to 8 years
15
9 to 13 years
25
21
14 to 18 years
35
24
29
44
19 to 50 years
35
25
30
45
>50 years
30
20
References:
Chromium - Merck Manual
Chromium - General Information
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Required for proper sulfur metabolism. Can help with phenol intolerance. Molybdenum is found in trace amounts in plants and animals.The most important use of the molybdenum atom in living organisms is as a metal hetero-atom at the active site in certain enzymes. Dietary sources include green beans, eggs, sunflower seeds, wheat flour, lentils, and cereal grain and pork, lamb, and beef liver. High levels of molybdenum can interfere with the body"s uptake of copper, producing copper deficiency. This can be alleviated by the administration of more copper into the system, both in dietary form and by injection.
References:
Molybdenum - Merck Manual
Molybdenum - General Information
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Important antioxidant, removes toxic waste from the body, including mercury. Works with vitamin E. Helps with production of thyroid hormone. Deficiency can affect immune system. Toxicity can affect sulfur metabolism, cause depression, nausea, and vomiting. Garlic odor of breath even without eating garlic, excessive perspiration, hair loss, and changes in fingernails are signs of toxicity. Selenium is incorporated into proteins to make seleno-proteins, which are important antioxidant enzymes. The antioxidant properties of seleno-proteins help prevent cellular damage from free radicals. Selenium also reduces mercury toxicity. Dietary selenium comes from nuts, cereals, meat, fish, and eggs and Brazil nuts. My son needs selenium for proper absorption of vitamin A and the B vitamins.
Recommended Adequate Intakes (AIs) for Selenium
Age
Males and Females
Pregnancy
Lactation
1-3 y
20
N/A
N/A
4-8 y
30
N/A
N/A
9-13 y
40
N/A
N/A
14-18 y
55
60
70
19 y +
55
60
70
References:
Selenium - Merck Manual
Selenium - General Information
Selenium - Topics
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See Potassium.
References:
Sodium - Merck Manual
Sodium - General Information
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Required for proper cell functioning. Can prevent high blood pressure and muscle cramps. Magnesium deficiency can cause potassium loss. Requires balance with sodium. Can be problematic with certain medications. Too high doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and ulcers. Sometimes I get muscle cramps which require both magnesium and potassium to eliminate. Some important sources of potassium are potato, winter squash, tomato, celery, carrots, broccoli, watercress, avocado, banana, oranges, orange juice, raisins, watermelon, cantaloupe, prunes, fish, hamburger, lamb, pork, chicken, bran cereal, wheat flakes cereal, yogurt, milk, salt substitutes, brown rice, garlic, apricots and sunflower seeds. A deficiency in potassium is not common, but symptoms of a deficiency may include weakness, irregular heartbeat, and failure to replace low levels of potassium could lead to heart failure.
References:
Potassium - Merck Manual
Potassium - General Information
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See Chromium.
References:
Vanadium - General Information
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Digest foods. For many children, enzymes can replace food removals. But for some children, certain foods must still be removed. There are plant-based enzymes, which can be purchased over the counter, and also animal-based enzymes, which generally require a prescription. Except for some of the originally studied enzymes such as pesin, rennin, and trypsin, most enzyme names end in "ase". The International Union of Biochemistry (I.U.B.) initiated standards of enzyme nomenclature which recommend that enzyme names indicate both the substrate acted upon and the type of reaction catalyzed. Certain enzymes can help eliminate virus issues. The enzyme bromelain can be used to help bruises heal faster. The enzyme No-Fenol helps break down the yeast cell wall, allowing your yeast killer to kill the yeast much more quickly. Certain children have problems with bromelain and/or papain, so if your enzyme product contains those items, and your child appears to have difficulty tolerating the enzyme, find an enzyme product that will still address the foods you want it to address, that does not contain those items. Amylase breaks down carbohydrates and helps people who are allergic to gluten. Lactase digest dairy products, lipase breaks down fats, protease digests proteins, and cellulase aids in the absorption of nutrients.
References:
Enzymes/Viruses - General Information
Houston Enzymes
Dana Review - Autism
Autism - Digestive Enzymes
Enzymes Information
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Probiotics are essentially "good bacteria" that the human gut requires to digest food, plus many of these bacteria will manufacture essential elements and amino acids that the body requires for healthy functioning. When healthy, the gut contains good bacteria and a certain amount of yeast, in balance with each other. Many times, however, there will be an imbalance, like too much yeast or bad bacteria, and not enough good bacteria. Probiotics can help get the body back in balance. They are even supplements that provide the body with helpful bacteria. Taken as an oral medicine and sometimes through injection, probiotics boost the immune system, improve digestive health, and can reduce the growth of harmful bacteria.
References:
Dana Review - Probiotics
Probiotics - General Information
Benefits of Probiotics
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Essential fatty acids, or EFAs, are fatty acids that cannot be constructed within an organism (generally all references are to humans) from other components by any known chemical pathways, and therefore must be obtained from the diet. The term refers to fatty acids involved in biological processes, and not those which may just play a role as fuel. As many of the compounds created from essential fatty acids can be taken directly in the diet, it is possible that the amounts required in the diet (if any) are overestimated. It is also possible they can be underestimated as organisms can still survive in non-ideal, malnourished conditions. Alpha-Linolenic acid (LNA or ALA), and it belongs to the omega-3 family of fatty acids. Linoleic acid (LA) is the other essential fatty acid, belonging to the omega-6 family of fatty acids. Some of the food sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are fish and shellfish, flaxseed (linseed), hemp oil, soya oil, canola (rapeseed) oil, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, leafy vegetables, and walnuts. The best sources of omega-3 EFAs come from fatty fish such as cod, halibut, mackerel, herring, trout, sardines, and salmon.
References:
Essential Fatty Acids - Merck Manual
Essential Fatty Acids and Asthma
Essential Fatty Acids - Information
Essential Fatty Acids and Autoimmune Diseases
Autism and Essential Fatty Acids
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Amino acids are the oldest and most important nutrients. There are 20 amino acids: Valine,Leucine, Isoleucine, Alanine, Arginine, Glutamine, Lysine, Aspartic acid, Glutamate, Proline, Cysteine, Threonine, Methionine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Tyrosine, Tryptophan, Asparagine, Glycine and Serine. 9 of these 20 must be taken from food since they are not synthesized in the body. Therefore, they are called "essential amino acids". It is necessary to compensate these "essential amino acids" from food in well-balanced, appropriate amounts. Amino acids perform various important functions for the body and serve as the materials for the body"s cells, hormones, and enzymes.
References:
Amino Acids - Merck Manual
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Glutathione is a very interesting, very small molecule that"s produced by the body and found in every cell. The strong antioxidant effect of glutathione helps keep cells running smoothly. It also helps the liver remove chemicals that are foreign to the body, such as drugs and pollutants. Critical for detoxification. Can help certain children stop "writing letters in the air".
References:
Glutathione - General Information
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L-Carnosine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in high concentrations in muscle, heart and brain tissues. Helpful for language and behaviors for certain children. This tended to deplete zinc for my kids. Carnosine is considered an extremely non-toxic and safe substance. As with other antioxidants, carnosine acts synergistically when taken with other antioxidants.
References:
Autism and Carnosine Study
Autism and Carnosine
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Transports fatty acids into cells, creating energy. Carnitine is vital for the transport of chained fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane, for the purpose of breaking them down to be metabolized. Can help with low muscle tone issues. The body makes carnitine from lysine, methionine, SAMe, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, niacin, and iron. Most of the carnitine in our system is ingested in animal protein (meat, fish, milk, eggs). It is hypothesized that a mitochondrial defect may be the origin of the carnitine deficiency in the autistic children.
References:
Carnitine - Merck Manual
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Lysine is an essential amino acid, which means that it is essential to human health but cannot be manufactured by the body. For this reason, lysine must be obtained from food. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Helps eliminate cold sores. Required for growth, especially bone growth. Helps fight lead toxicity. B vitamins and vitamin C are helpful for proper absorption. Lysine is important for proper growth and it plays an essential role in the production of carnitine, a nutrient responsible for converting fatty acids into energy and helping to lower cholesterol. Lysine appears to help the body absorb and conserve calcium and it plays an important role in the formation of collagen, a substance important for bones and connective tissues including skin, tendon, and cartilage. Don"t take this with antibiotics.
References:
Lysine - General Information
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Can help with seizure activity, and fatty acid metabolism. Can help for kids who have difficulty with chlorine in swimming pools. Taurine has several critical functions and can act similarly to creatine in that it expands your cells by helping the muscle cell itself hold more water, increasing cell volume. L-Taurine, found in eggs, fish, meat, and milk is a building block for all the other amino acids. Taurine is a key component in the production of bile, which is needed for the digestion of fats, the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and the support of healthy cholesterol levels.
References:
Taurine - Dana Review
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Anti-viral. Works VERY WELL for my son. ViraStop, is a specialty blend of enzymes used between meals at high therapeutic doses. Combining this with other supplements that have antiviral properties, such as olive leaf extract, vitamin C, or monolaurin, increases its effectiveness against viruses.
References:
Virastop Enzyme - General Information
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Anti-viral. This works VERY WELL for my son. Olive leaf extract is derived from the leaves of the olive tree. Recorded evidence of olive leaf"s medicinal use dates back thousands of years: it was used by ancient Egyptian and Mediterranean cultures to treat a variety of health conditions.
References:
Olive Leaf Extract - General Information
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Grapefruit seed extract (GSE), also known as citrus seed extract, is a liquid derived from the seeds, pulp, and white membranes of grapefruit. It possesses antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. Can cause bad bacteria if given when there is no yeast present. Worked VERY WELL for my son for the yeast issues he had before and during chelation.
References:
Grapefruit Seed Extract - General Information
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Anti-oxidant. [Do not confuse with grapefruit seed extract above.] Grape seed extracts are industrial derivatives from whole grape seeds. We all know that studies into grapes and red wine have shown to have positive benefits. That is because the chemicals found in these grapes are high in antioxidants. Grape seed extract contains something called oligoproanthocyanidin, we will call it OPC for short. OPC has been shown to be a very powerful antioxidant, much higher that vitamin C.
References:
Grape Seed Extract - General Information
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Anti-bacterial. Oregano or Origanum vulgare is a species of Origanum, native to Europe, the Mediterranean region and southern and central Asia. Oregano, derived from the Greek origanos, is high in antioxidant activity, due to a high content of phenolic acids and flavonoids.Oil of Oregano is oil of wild oregano plant and is completely natural. It contains a lot of different minerals such as niacin, beta-carotene, copper and anti-oxidants. Oil of oregano is useful to help us boost our immune system and fight germs and viruses.
References:
Oil of Oregano - General Information
Medication - Antifungal
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Anti-fungal. Uva Ursi leaves were officially a drug for urinary antiseptic in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia and the National Formulatory from 1820 until 1950. Should not be used long-term. It contains the glycoside arbutin, which has antimicrobial properties and acts as a mild diuretic.
References:
Uva Ursi- General Information
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It is also called octanoic acid, that is found naturally in coconut oil, palm oil, butter fat as well as in human breast milk. It is known to have anti-fungal as well as some anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.
References:
Caprylic Acid Against Candida
Caprylic Acid - General Information
Back to TOP Aids in preventing heart disease and cancer, improves cholesterol levels, lowers blood pressure. Antibacterial and antifungal. Can help with parasites. It also contains alliin, ajoene, enzymes, vitamin B, minerals, and flavonoids. Raw is most effective.
References:
Garlic - Medication Antifungal
Garlic - General Information
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Anti-bacterial. Colloidal silver is a liquid suspension of microscopic particles of silver. A colloid is technically defined as particles which remain suspended without forming an ionic, or dissolved solution. Should not be used long-term, especially for children who might already be metal-toxic. Can cause argyria, a silver coloring to skin that can be permanent.
References:
Colloidal Silver
Colloidal Silver - General Information
Back to TOP Anti-viral. Supposed to have anti-fungal properties but I found with my kids that it actually *caused* yeast. Perhaps viral die off causes yeast? Lauricidin® is the only monolaurin that has been clinically tested.
References:
Lauricidin
Back to TOP Short for methylsulfonylmethane. A source of sulfur , it is also called "organic sulfur." Can reduce pain and inflammation, arthritis, back pain or muscle pain. Can help eliminate parasites. Can help with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Best taken with food, and not near bedtime.
References:
Methylsulfonylmethane
Back to TOP Helps with heart functioning and energy production. Made by the body with tyrosine, B vitamins, and vitamin C. Essential part of the "mito cocktail" for kids with mitochondrial issues. This supplement was essential to allow my son to properly absorb and utilize fatty acids. Co–Q10 is also a very powerful antioxidant. It is most concentrated in the energy–demanding heart, brain and muscle systems. Rich dietary sources include almonds, ocean salmon, sardines, spinach and certain meats. Research has shown that "soft gel" (or oil–suspension) versions of CoQ10 supplements are much more bioavailable than dry powdered versions.
References:
Coenzyme - Q10 - General Information
Coenzyme – Q10
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Back to TOP Short for Dimethylglycine, type of amino acid. Can help certain children acquire language. Can cause hyper for some children, adding B12 and folic acid can help. It acts as a methyl donor, and methylation activates neural pathways that affect behaviour. DMG stimulates both the antibody response and cellular immunity branches of the immune system. DMG also acts as a detoxifying agent and antioxidant, protecting body cells from unwanted reactions caused by free radicals. DMG improves oxygen utilization, cell protection, immune system modulation, and enhances the healing. While DMG can be found in the outer coating of rice and in all seed products, it is produced naturally in the body.
References:
DMG (Dimethylglycine) - General Information
Back to TOP Short for Trimethylglycine. TMG is a metabolite of the B vitamin family product called Choline. Methyl donors can contribute methyl groups to biological processes such as liver function, detoxification and cellular replication. Methylation protects the kidneys and stimulates production of the fat-transporting molecule l-carnitine. TMG helps the liver metabolize fats, preventing the accumulation of fats in the liver. It also helps to detoxify chemicals in the liver, while protecting the liver from being damaged by those chemicals. Can help certain children acquire language. Can cause hyper for some children, even tho it is generally sold with B12 and folic acid added. Food items with the highest content of Betaine are wheat, spinach, shellfish, and sugar beets. The conversion of Choline to Betaine is a two-step enzymic process, which occurs in the liver and kidney.
References:
Trimethylglycine - General Information
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Milk thistle is an edible herbaceous plant native to the warm, dry areas in southern Europe, Northern Africa and countries surrounding the Mediterranean. Milk thistle has been used to treat liver problems for over 2,000 years, and has become very popular in the nutraceutical market as a liver tonic which removes toxins from the body. Can increase glutathione content of liver. Also helps support the kidneys. Milk thistle seed extract is an excellent tonic for anyone under stress. Milk thistle seed extract has a gentle detoxifying effect, and its ability to increase bile secretion and flow in the intestines makes it effective as a mild laxative. High doses can cause diarrhea.
References:
Silymarin - General Information
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Helps with language acquisition for certain children. Vinpocetine is a synthetic compound derivative of vincamine, an alkaloid derived from the plant vinca minor, and a member of the periwinkle family. Vinpocetine, as well as vincamine, are used in many regions of Europe, Japan, and Mexico for cerebro-vascular and cognitive disorders. In the United States, vinpocetine is available in different forms as a dietary supplement. It is often referred to as a nootropic or cognition enhancer. Vinpocetine appears to have antioxidant effects equivalent to those of vitamin E, enhances blood flow, and may be beneficial to brain function and age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, vinpocetine has a number of other possible beneficial health effects, including increasing cerebral blood flow, increasing metabolism, anticonvulsant, cognition enhancement, and neuro-protection.
References:
Vinpocetine - General Information
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Melatonin, a hormone secreted by a tiny gland situated at the base of the brain called pineal gland. The gland is closely associated with the pathway of nerves and neurons between the eyes and the visual centers in brain. The release of the melatonin hormone from the gland is signaled by the absence of signals from the eye to the brain, i.e. the sense of darkness. The resultant higher levels of the hormone in blood inhibit the centers in the brain stem responsible for keeping us awake, thus inducing sleep. Autistic children receiving melatonin regularly exhibit benefits that cannot be explained in simple terms like better sleep. It may be a combination of better sleep, better control of biological rhythms and high Anti-Oxidant effect. Melatonin is an extremely powerful Anti-Oxidant surpassing vitamin E or C.
References:
Melatonin - General Information
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Valerian root is an herbal supplement with the active compound valerinic acid and has similar effects to valium. Helps with sleep issues for certain children. For some children, it can cause sleep but the child wakes in the night and then cannot return to sleep. Can help with sleep issues for certain children.
References:
Valerian - Merck Information
Valerian - General Information
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Chelation therapy involves the administration of agents to remove heavy metals from the blood, usually, but not always, by intravenous infusion. For the most common forms of heavy metal intoxication—those involving lead, arsenic or mercury—the standard of care in the USA dictates the use of dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA). Other chelating agents, such as 2,3-dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid (DMPS) and alpha lipoic acid (ALA), are used in conventional and alternative medicine.
References:
Chelation - General Information
Chelation Study
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Very effective anti-oxidant and chelator. Supports the liver. Can pull mercury from the brain. I chelated all my kids with ALA. Chelation caused my kids to lose ALL of their food intolerances and allergies, no more gut yeast issues, as well as eliminated many stims and other issues.
References:
Alpha Lipoic Acid - General Information
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