Biochemical Individuality and Nutrition

Biochemical Individuality and Nutrition by Bill Walsh, Ph.D. Pfeiffer Treatment Center Introduction Each of us has innate biochemical factors which influence personality, behavior, mental health, immune function, allergic tendencies, etc. Scientists tell us that the number of different genetic combinations possible in a child from the same two parents exceeds 42 million. It’s interesting to note that we do not possess a combination of characteristics from our parents, but instead have a diverse collection of characteristics from many ancestors on both sides of the family. Except for identical twins, each human being has unique biochemistry resulting in quite diverse nutritional needs. Shakespeare was correct when he wrote "One man’s meat is another man’s poison." For example, some of us are genetically suited for a vegetable-based diet and others are not. Some persons can satisfy their nutritional needs by diet alone and others must have nutritional supplements to overcome genetic aberrations. Because of genetic differences in the way our bodies process foods, most of us are quite deficient in certain nutrients and overloaded in others. Even with an ideal diet, most of us have certain nutrients that are at very low levels with many times the RDA required to achieve a healthy balance. The nutrients in overload must be carefully avoided in vitamin supplements or serious health problems can develop. After studying the biochemistry of 10,000 persons, I’ve learned that the greatest mischief is usually caused by nutrients that are stored in excessive amounts, rather than those at depleted levels. The most common nutrients in overload include copper, iron, folic acid, calcium, methionine, manganese, choline, and omega-6 fatty acids. Of course, these same nutrients may be in deficiency in other persons. I am amused by supplement manufacturers who attempt to develop the ideal combination of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for the general population. This is a bit like trying to determine the ideal shoe size for the population. The truth is that multiple vitamins and minerals are too indiscriminate, and may do as much harm as good. Each of us should ask the question, "Who am I nutritionally?" The answer to this question is important for all, but may be especially critical for persons with mental health problems. Nutrients and Mental Health As we enter the new millennium, the medical and scientific communities agree on the tremendous influence of neurotransmitters on behavior disorders, ADHD, depression, and schizophrenia. Most persons with these disorders were born with a predisposition for these problems due to genetically-aberrant levels of specific neurotransmitters. Our mental health is dependent upon having the proper amounts of these critical brain chemicals. Some psychiatrists express their scorn for nutrient therapies, claiming that they are too puny to have any real clinical potency. They often say, "You really need a drug medication to get the job done for a serious condition like depression." My favorite response begins by asking the question, "Where do our neurotransmitters come from?" The brain is a chemical factory which produces serotonin. dopamine, norepinephrine, and other brain chemicals 24 hours a day. The only raw material for these syntheses are nutrients, namely amino acids, vitamins, minerals, etc. If the brain receives improper amounts of these nutrient building blocks, we can expect serious problems with our neurotransmitters. For example, some depression patients have a genetic pyrrole disorder which renders them grossly depleted in vitamin B-6. These individuals cannot efficiently create serotonin since B-6 is an important co-factor in the last step of its synthesis. Many of these persons report benefits from Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, or other serotonin-enhancing medications. However, similar benefits may also be achieved by simply giving these patients sufficient amounts of B-6 along with augmenting nutrients. Most neurotransmitter problems appear to be genetic in nature and involve abnormal absorption, metabolism or storage of key nutrients. As neuroscience advances, biochemical treatments to correct brain chemistry become better defined. Nutrient therapy can be very potent and does not involve side effects, since no molecules foreign to the body are needed. This therapeutic approach may eventually eliminate the need for most psychiatric medications. Biochemical Factors In Behavior Disorders, ADHD and Mental Illness The Pfeiffer Treatment Center has amassed a large database of biochemical information from more than 10,000 patients with mental health problems. Examination of this data shows that most of these persons have striking abnormalities in specific nutrients required for neurotransmitter production. The most common chemical imbalances we encounter include the following: Over-Methylation Many persons who suffer from anxiety and depression are over-methylated which results in excessive levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. Typical symptoms include chemical and food sensitivities, underachievement, upper body pain, and an adverse reaction to serotonin-enhancing substances such as Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, St. John’s Wort, and SAMe. They have a genetic tendency to be very depressed in folates, niacin, and Vitamin B-12, and biochemical treatment focuses on supplementation of these nutrients. These persons are also overloaded in copper and methionine and supplements of these nutrients must be strictly avoided. Under-Methylation Many patients with obsessive-compulsive tendencies, oppositional-defiant disorder, or seasonal depression are under-methylated which is associated with low serotonin levels. They generally exhibit seasonal allergies, perfectionism, competitiveness, and other distinctive symptoms and traits. They have a genetic tendency to be very depressed in calcium, magnesium, methionine, and Vitamin B-6 with excessive levels of folic acid. These under-methylated persons may benefit nicely from Paxil, Zoloft, and other serotonin-enhancing medications, although nasty side effects are common. A more natural approach is to directly correct the underlying problem using methionine, calcium, magnesium, and B-6. SAMe, St. John’s Wort, Kava Kava, and inositol are also very useful in treating these individuals. Metal-Metabolism A common problem in ADHD, behavior disorders, and hormonal depression is an genetic inability to control copper, zinc, manganese, and other trace metals in the body due to improper functioning of the metallothionine protein. These patients are often deficient in zinc, manganese, cysteine, serine, and vitamin B-6 and overloaded in copper, lead, and cadmium. They must avoid supplements and "enriched" foods containing copper. In addition we recommend they drink bottled water and limit use of swimming pools and jacuzzis treated with copper sulfate anti-algae agents. Foods to be limited due to high copper content include shellfish, chocolate, and carob. Elevated copper levels are associated with hormonal imbalances and a classic symptom is intolerance to estrogen. Biochemical treatment focuses on stimulation of metallothionein using zinc, manganese, cysteine, serine, and Vitamin B-6. Pyrrole Disorder A common feature of many behavior and emotional disorders is pyroluria, an inborn error of pyrrole chemistry which results in a dramatic deficiency of zinc, Vitamin B-6, and arachidonic acid. Common symptoms include explosive temper, emotional mood swings, poor short-term memory, and frequent infections. These patients are easily identified by their inability to tan, poor dream recall, abnormal fat distribution, and sensitivity to light and sound. The decisive laboratory test is analysis for kryptopyrroles in urine. Treatment centers on zinc and B-6 supplements together with omega-6 essential fatty acids. Glucose Dyscontrol Our database indicates a significant number of our patients have chronic low blood glucose levels. This problem doesn’t appear to be the cause of behavior disorders, depression, etc., but instead is an aggravating factor which can trigger striking symptoms. Typical symptoms include drowsiness after meals, irritability, craving for sweets, trembling, anxiety, and intermittent poor concentration and focus. Treatment includes chromium, manganese, and other glucose-stabilizing nutrients, but the primary focus of treatment is on diet. These patients benefit from six or more small meals daily with emphasis on complex carbohydrates and protein. In essence, they cannot tolerate large meals or quick sugars. Complex carbohydrates provide the necessary glucose in a slow, gradual manner and may be thought of as "time-release" sugar. Toxic Substances Occasionally we encounter a patient whose condition has resulted from a heavy-metal overload (lead, cadmium, mercury, etc.) or toxic levels of pesticides or other organic chemicals. Our database indicates that persons with a metallothionein disorder are especially sensitive to toxic metals, and that over-methylation is associated with severe chemical sensitivities. Effective treatment requires a three-part approach: (1) avoidance of additional exposures, (2) biochemical treatment to hasten the exit of the toxic from the body, and (3) correction of underlying chemical imbalances to minimize future vulnerability to the toxic. Malabsorption Although only 10% of our database case histories involve serious malabsorption, more than 90% of autistics exhibit this problem. There are three primary classes of absorption problems: (1) stomach problems, including excessive or insufficient HCl levels, (2) incomplete digestion in the small intestine, and (3) problems at the brush-border of the intestine where most nutrients are absorbed into the portal blood stream. The consequences can include nutrient deficiencies, irritation of the intestinal tract, candida, and mental health problems. Incomplete breakdown of protein and fats can adversely affect brain neurotransmission, and is associated with impulsivity and academic underachievement. Treatment depends on the type of malabsorption present and may involve adjustment of stomach HCl levels, digestive enzymes which survive stomach acid, nutrients to enhance digestion, and special diets. Essential Fatty Acids The brain is 20% fat (by dry weight) and these fatty substances fulfill very important functions. The myelin sheaths which surround our brain cells contain essential fatty acids which are directly involved in receptor formation and nerve transmission. A 1998 Symposium at the National Institute of Mental Health presented strong evidence of the important roles for omega-3 oils (especially EPA and DHA) and omega-6 oils (especially AA and DGLA) in ADHD, depression, and schizophrenia. A recent Harvard study showed EPA and DHA supplements to be more effective than psychiatric medications in combating bipolar depression. Typical American diets usually result in insufficient omega-3 and excessive omega-6, and some nutritionists routinely recommend supplements of omega-3 oils. However, biochemical individuality also exists with oils and certain persons are innately low in omega-6 oils. A review of symptoms and specialized plasma and red-cell-membrane lab tests can identify individual needs. Health Research Institute Pfeiffer Treatment Center HRI Pharmacy 4575 Weaver Parkway - Warrenville, IL 60555-4039 (630) 505-0300 - (630) 836-0667 fax Questions or Comments:info@HRIPTC.org | Home Page | Services | Pharmacy | Research | Education | Patient Info | Directions | All contents Copyright (c) 2004 Health Research Institute. All rights reserved. HRI is a Not-for-Profit 501c3.

Common Treatments: Choline

When medical researchers use the term "lecithin", they are referring to a purified substance called phosphatidylcholine (PC). Supplements labeled as "lecithin" usually contain 10-20% PC. Relatively pure PC supplements are generally labeled as "phosphatidylcholine". PC best duplicates supplements used in medical research. Most commercial lecithins contain various amounts of other phospholipids such as phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylethanolamine. Source Choline, a lipotropic molecule and the major constituent of phosphatydyl choline, is also available by itself (without the "phosphatidyl" group) in foods and supplements. It is found in soybeans, liver and other animal organs, bile, oatmeal, cabbage, and cauliflower. Egg yolks, meat, and some vegetables contain PC. Lecithin (containing 10-20% PC) is added to many processed foods in small amounts, for the purpose of maintaining texture consistency. Most commercial lecithin is derived from soybeans. Choline is added as an ingredient in some multivitamin products as well as those specifically designed for the liver or gastrointestinal conditions. Choline is also a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and is often added to products designed to improve memory or depression. Commercial lecithin supplies choline, inositol, phosphoric acid and fatty acids to the diet. Choline can also be found in stable salt forms such as choline bitartrate. Function; Reasons For Use PC acts as a supplier of choline. Choline is now considered an essential nutrient, needed for cell membrane integrity and to facilitate the movement of fats in and out of cells. It is also a component of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and is needed for normal brain functioning, particularly in infants. For this reason, PC has been used in a number of preliminary studies for a wide variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders [Benjamin J, Levine J, Fux M, et al. Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of inositol treatment for panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry 1995;152: pp.1084-6.], though not every study suggests that supplemental choline is capable of reaching the brain [Dechent P, Pouwels PJW, Frahm J. Neither short-term nor long-term administration of oral choline alters metabolite concentrations in human brain. Biol Psychiatry 1999;46: pp.406-11]. Choline participates in many functions involving cellular components called phospholipids. Choline is a vitamin that is lipotropic (has an affinity for lipids - fats). Lipotropics are fat metabolism assisting agents. As a lipotropic agent it is helpful in moving fat out of the liver into the bile. As a precursor to betaine, choline is also involved in methylation of homocysteine as well as DNA. Lecithin, with other phospholipids, is essential for every cellular and sub-cellular membrane in the body, especially the brain and central nervous system. Lecithin helps to regulate fat and cholesterol metabolism and is beneficial in atherosclerosis, hypertension and diabetes. Phosphatidyl choline has been used in connection with the following conditions:

• Gallbladder attacks, High homocysteine, Liver cirrhosis, Tardive dyskinesia;
• Alzheimer's disease, Bipolar disorder, Hepatitis, High cholesterol.

Side-Effects In high amounts, pure choline can make people smell like fish, so it's rarely used, except in the small amounts found in multivitamin supplements.

Blog entry about histamine/PST/supplements for methylation

Found this on a blog by a Pfeiffer patient. Interesting. Sulfation Sulfation is the conjugation of toxins with sulfur-containing compounds. The sulfation system is important for detoxifying several drugs, food additives, and, especially, toxins from intestinal bacteria and the environment. In addition to environmental toxins, sulfation is also used to detoxify some normal body chemicals and is the main pathway for the elimination of steroid and thyroid hormones. Since sulfation is also the primary route for the elimination of neurotransmitters, dysfunction in this system may contribute to the development of some nervous system disorders.

Sulfation was already on my list on "to learn about" since the PTC prescribed phenolic enymes, which break down phenols, which are ordinarly broken down by sulfates. Maybe I was too hasty in the "phase II ok for histapenics" conclusion. Still, methionine is needed for sulfation, and supposedly histapenics have a lot of that. I dont know. Inducers of phase II detoxification enzymes Glutathione conjugation: Brassica family foods (cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts); limonene-containing foods (citrus peel, dill weed oil, caraway oil) Amino acid conjugation: Glycine Methylation: Lipotropic nutrients (choline, methionine, betaine, folic acid, vitamin B12) Sulfation: Cysteine, methionine, taurine Acetylation: None found Glucuronidation: Fish oils, cigarette smoking, birth control pills, Phenobarbital, limonene-containing foods Inhibitors of phase II detoxification enzymes Glutathione conjugation: Selenium deficiency, vitamin B2 deficiency, glutathione deficiency, zinc deficiency Amino acid conjugation: Low protein diet Methylation: Folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency Sulfation: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. aspirin), tartrazine (yellow food dye), molybdenum deficiency Acetylation: Vitamin B2, B5, or C deficiency Glucuronidation: Aspirin, probenecid reads like a checklist of histapenic supplments, but do not taht ciggarettes, most favored by histadelics, induce phase II detoxification. Pahse III is bile production. Bile. from the liver, stored in the gall bladder. Somehow I recall that Ceruplasmin is involved. I have to check that out.

Impairment of bile flow within the liver can be caused by a variety of agents and conditions. These conditions are often associated with alterations of liver function in laboratory tests (serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, SGOT, LDH, GGTP, etc.) signifying cellular damage. However, relying on these tests alone to evaluate liver function is not adequate, since, in the initial or subclinical stages of many problems with liver function, laboratory values remain normal. Among the symptoms people with enzymatic damage complain of are: Fatigue; general malaise; digestive disturbances; allergies and chemical sensitivities; premenstrual syndrome; constipation.

Hmmmmmmmm. My PMS is fine, but that is interesting. AS noted above, my AST and SGOT are always slightly elevated, and my billirubin is high. If this researches leads to something, I want a refund from all the hospitals who have wasted my time on cr*p I could figure out. I am sick of funding thier student loan payments.

regrettably methionine is listed as the only supplment aiding in bile production, but I have to tell you that I am recently feeling like the methionine and methly cycle is more complex than the PTC is telling me. I dont know on that one.

Methylation Types (Carl Pfeiffer)

Click on the image below to see a nice chart outlining the tendencies of of those with over- and under-methylation issues.

Methylation Overview

http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/articles/pfeiffer.htm Methylation Effective "markers" for methylation are (1) whole blood histamine (ref. levels 40-70 mcg/dL), available from Quest and LabCorp; (2) Absolute Basophils (ref. levels 30-50), available from Direct Healthcare, Inc in the Chicago area. One-carbon (methyl) groups are involved in numerous important biochemical reactions in the body, including genetic expression, neurotransmitter synthesis and metabolism, etc. Methylation (more properly, the methyl/folate ratio) is a major factor in the rate-limiting step (the tetrahydrobiopterin reaction) in the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain. Undermethylated persons tend to be depleted in these 3 neurotransmitters, and the opposite is true for overmethylation. Inositol is especially helpful for undermethylated persons (for example most persons with OCD), but can cause negative side effects in those who are overmethylated. Since Inositol is one of the primary second messengers in neurotransmission, it's surprising is isn't more commonly used. It's especially useful in reducing anxiety and enhancing sleep. If you can confirm the presence of undermethylation, the patient should benefit from (1) aggressive doses of l-methionine, calcium, magnesium, along with augmenting nutrients zinc, B-6, Inositol, Vitamin A & C and (2) strict avoidance of folic acid, choline, DMAE, and copper supplements. A quick way to test for need for methylation therapy is to carry out a cautious trial of SAMe. Within a week or two you should have your answer. If she clearly is improving on the SAMs (which is frightfully expensive)..... you can get usually the same benefits (albeit more slowly) using methionine plus calcium, magnesium, and B-6. This should be side-effect free unless (a) the methylation is begun too abruptly or (b) the patient has a rare genetic enzyme disorder which disrupts the SAM cycle. We've found that direct methylation is usually more successful than tinkering with the SAM cycle. The primary way humans receive most of their methyl groups is from dietary methionine. It's often hard to improve on Mother Nature. (Jan 20, 2003) Aggressive methylation therapy can be very successful, but usually involves a very slow response. Typically, treatment with methionine, calcium, magnesium, B-6, etc requires about 2 months before the patient before any progress is evident --- and 6-12 months are required for all of the benefits to be attained. Please note that whole blood histamine is a marker for innate methylation tendency, but is not an indicator of wellness or the degree to which undermethylation has been overcome. Undermethylated patients can become quite well without their histamine lab results changing at all. One way to speed up the process of recovery is to use SAMe supplements in the beginning. Undermethylated patients usually report nice progress after the first week or two. SAMe is quite expensive, and can be gradually replaced by methionine after a couple of months. Nearly all severely undermethylated persons have low serotonin levels and present with a history of depression, internal anxiety, and OCD. Many have a history of perfectionism and high accomplishment in the early years. Unfortunately this population also has a tendency for non-compliance with any treatment. The late and great Carl Pfeiffer would occasionally resort to use of the anti-histamines Benedryl or Dilantin in high-histamine persons who were slow to respond. Avoidance of folate supplements is essential for most undermethylated persons, an exception being autism. Some practitioners like to tinker with the SAM cycle to promote conversion of homocysteine to methionine, but this can deplete the cystathione pathway and result in deficiencies of glutathione, cysteine, etc. Some persons have a genetic enzyme weakness which can disrupt the SAM cycle Undermethylated adults typically require 2,000 - 3,000 mg/day of methionine for several months to see good results. Also, augmenting nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, B-6, and zinc are essential. TMG generally provides some benefits to undermethylated persons, but tends to make oxidative stress protections worse by diminishing the amount of homocysteine which converts via the cystathione pathway of the SAM cycle. TMG certainly is a promising nutrient for such persons, and adding some cysteine or glutathione can overcome the cystathione pathway deficit. Personally, I believe the use of SAMe is the quickest way to help an undermethylated, high-histamine person. Most OCD patients (both obsessive thoughts AND compulsive actions) exhibit undermethylation and associated low levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Choline is anti-dopaminergic and often makes OCD patients worse. Generally OCD patients respond nicely to methionine, SAMe, calcium, magnesium, B-6, inositol, TMG, and zinc. Most OCD patients get worse if given supplements of DMAE, choline, copper, or folic acid. 500 to 1000 mg/day of inositol will probably be needed to provide good response. (9 Jan, 2003) Over-methylation Conditions associated with overmethylation: Anxiety/Panic disorders, anxious depression, hyperactivity, learning disabilities, low motivation, "space cadet" syndrome, paranoid schizophrenia, hallucinations. High in serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Many persons who suffer from anxiety along with depression are over-methylated. Methyl is an important chemical group consisting of one carbon and three hydrogen atoms (CH3). Over-methylation (too many added methyl groups) results in excessive levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Typical symptoms include chemical and food sensitivities, underachievement, upper body pain, and an adverse reaction to serotonin-enhancing substances such as Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, St. John’s Wort, and SAMe6. They have a physical tendency to be very depressed in folates (a form of folic acid), niacin and Vitamin B-12, and biochemical treatment focuses on supplementation of these nutrients. These persons are also overloaded in copper and methionine (a sulfur-containing amino acid) and supplements of these nutrients must be strictly avoided. Choline Phosphatidyl choline is also very effective in protecting DHA/EPA from free radical oxidative stress..... another good reason to take it. In my experience DMAE is especially effective for increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain, since it passes the blood/brain barrier & converts to choline. I like to use this for overmethylated persons who have excessive dopamine and norepinephrine levels. However, enhancing acetylcholine activity must be avoided in persons who genetically are overloaded in this NT. Choline, DMAE, and phosphatidyl choline can cause nasty symptoms in these persons (about 10% of the population). Persons with innately high acetylcholine levels tend to be very tense and sometimes nearly catatonic. They have very high anxiety, but usually keep it inside. They also usually have a history of seasonal allergies, perfectionism, and OCD tendencies. Increasing acetylcholine activity can be a disaster for them. Those deficient in acetylcholine usually present with nervous legs, are prone to pacing, and are quite voluble. Their misery is plain to everyone. Therapies to increase acetylcholine activity can be extraordinarily helpful for this population. (March 6, 2003) Inositol can cause negative side effects in those who are overmethylated. Histapenia (Low Histamine - over-methylated) Low-histamine depressives are usually nervous, anxious individuals who are prone to paranoia and despair. No seasonal allergies, but many food allergies and chemical sensitivity. Low libido. Obsessions but not compulsions. Heavy body hair. Nervous legs. Grandiosity. Many have a history of hyperactivity, learning disabilities and underachievement. They are over-methylated which results in elevated dopamine and norepinephrine levels. Treatment focuses on B3, C, B12, with about 2-4 months required for correction of the imbalance. Also DMAE, choline, manganese, zinc, omega-3 essential oils, C and E. They should avoid methionine, SAMe, Inositol, TMG and DMG. One thing that is absolutely certain is that methionine and/or SAMe usually harm low-histamine (overmethylated persons). The generalization that perfume and other chemical sensitivities are associated with overmethylation, low blood histamine, and elevated norepinephaine. is exactly that...a general rule with many exceptions. However, the correlation seems to be above 90 percent in the case of perfume sensitivity. Whenever a patient enters our clinic wearing a mask to filter out inhalant chemicals, we immediately suspect the overmethylation syndrome. The chemical testing usually confirms this diagnosis, but there definitely are a few persons who have severe perfume sensitivity for other reasons. We've evaluated about 19,000 persons, including about 1500 with anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Hundreds of these patients reported sensitivity to perfumes. Nearly 90 percent of the perfume-sensitive group were overmethylated, and reported multiple chemical and food sensitivities. usually in the absence of seasonal inhalant allergies. Perfume sensitivity is a classic symptom of these high nonepinephrine persons, who usually respond beautifully to folate/B-12 therapy [1 Dec -03] SAMe is likely to cause great worsening of symptoms, including mania, if given to an OVER-methylated person. The incidence of overmethylation in our patient database of 1,500 bipolar cases is about 18%. Bipolar disorder is not a single condition, but a collection of very different biochemical disorders under the same umbrella diagnosis. SAMe works great for truly undermethylated patients, but all hell breaks out if given to someone who is overloaded (genetically) with methyl groups. The right way to do this is to (a) first determine the person's innate methylation tendency & then (b) act accordingly. (Jan 31, 2003) Histadenia - (High Histamine - Under-methylation) Elevated histamine and/or elevated basophils indicate undermethylation. Review of symptoms and medical history can bolster the diagnosis. For example, most undermethylated persons exhibit seasonal allergies, perfectionism, strong wills, slenderness, OCD tendencies, high libido, etc. (Overmethylated persons generally exhibit anxiety, absence of seasonal allergies, presence of food/chemical sensitivities, dry eyes, low perspiration, artistic/music interests/abilities, intolerance to Prozac and other SSRI's, etc.) Low in serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Conditions associated with undermethylation: Anorexia, Bulemia, shopping/gambling disorders, depression, schizo-affective disorder, delusions, oppositional-defiant disorder, OCD. Many patients with obsessive-compulsive tendencies, "oppositional-defiant disorder," or seasonal depression are under-methylated, which is associated with low serotonin levels. They generally exhibit seasonal allergies and other distinctive symptoms and traits. They have a tendency to be very depressed in calcium, magnesium, methionine, and vitamin B-6 with excessive levels of folic acid. These under-methylated persons can have a positive effect from Paxil, Zoloft, and other serotonin-enhancing medications, although nasty side effects are common. A more natural approach is to directly correct the underlying problem using methionine, calcium, magnesium, and B-6. SAMe, St. John’s Wort, Kava Kava, and inositol (a natural sugar alcohol) are also very useful in treating these individuals. 40-70 is optimum histamine range for mental health considerations. Histamine is an important neurotransmitter which affects human behavior. This syndrome often involves seasonal variations in depression, obsessive-compulsive behavior, inhalant allergies, and frequent headaches. In severe cases involving psychosis, the dominant symptom is usually delusional thinking rather than hallucinations. They tend to speak very little and may sit motionless for extended periods. They may appear outwardly calm, but suffer from extreme internal anxiety. Most OCD patients with both obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions are in this category. Associated with under-methylation, which results in low levels of important neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Treatment focuses on the use of antifolates such as calcium, methionine, SAMe, magnesium, zinc, TMG, omega-3 essential oils, B6, inositol, and A, C and E. The dose of inositol is 500 to 1000mg. Choline is anti-dopaminergic and often makes undermethylated patients worse. Also bad are DMAE, copper and folic acid. Three to six months of nutrient therapy are necessary to correct this chemical imbalance. Symptoms will return if treatment is stopped. Two good labs for whole blood histamine are LabCorp and Quest. Also use a special absolute basophil count as a methlyation marker. The count must be direct and not differential. Alcian blue dye is the preferred staining agent. Best lab for this test is Direct Healthcare Access in Glenview IL 847 299 2440 One thing that is absolutely certain is that methionine and/or SAMe are wonderful for high-histamine (undermethylated) persons. Histadelic (undermethylated) persons thrive on methionine, SAMe, Ca and Mg..... but get much worse if they take folates & B-12 which can increase methyl trapping. The bottom line is that undermethylated persons generally exhibit very elevated folate levels.... and these persons get worse if additional folate is given SAMe is very promising for undermethylated persons and a bad idea for those who suffer from a genetic tendency for overmethylation. I don't particularly like the "allopathic" method you referred to which is simply trial & error. SAMe can do great harm if given to the wrong person. I hate going to funerals. (17 Dec, 2002) The mechanisms of action of SAMe and TMG are quite different. Most of our methyl groups come from dietary methionine. The methionine is converted to SAMe in a reaction with magnesium, ATP, methionine-adenosyl-transferase, and water. SAMe is a relatively unstable carrier of methyl groups and is the primary source of methyl for most reactions in the body. Once the methyl group has been donated, the residual molecule is s-adenosyl-homocysteine which converts to homocysteine. TMG (betaine) is a biochemical which can donate a methyl group to homocysteine, thus converting it back to methionine. The TMG route is secondary to the 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate/B-12 reaction which the primary route for restoring methionine. Methionine and SAMe supplements directly introduce new methyl groups into the body. TMG can provide a methyl group only to the extent that there is insufficient folate/B-12 to do the job. In some persons, the methylation effect of TMG is very minimal. In addition, persons who are undermethylated have a SAM cycle which is "spinning very slowly", much like a superhighway with little traffic. The answer for them is NOT to more efficiently convert the small amount of homocysteine to methionine (using TMG), but rather to directly introduce more methionine or SAMe into the body. A small percentage of persons with sufficient dietary methionine cannot efficiently produce SAMe --- These persons need supplemental SAMe, and not methionine or TMG and are the exception to the rule. In most other cases, methionine supplements alone are sufficient. TMG is a great way to treat individuals with dangerously high homocysteine levels. TMG can be very useful in augmenting methionine therapy along with B-6/P-5-P , serine, etc. The challenge is to supply enough methyl groups to help the patient, without creating dangerously high levels of homocysteine. Use of TMG is an "insurance policy" against this happening. (Jan 22, 2003) OTHER Pyroluria A stress disorder characterized by pronounced mood swings, temper outbursts, anxious depression. Inability to eat breakfast, absence of dream recall and frequent infections. The biochemical signature of this disorder includes elevated urine kryptopyrroles, a double deficiency of zinc and B-6, and low levels of arachidonic acid. Devastated by stresses including physical injury, emotional trauma, illness, sleep deprivation. Sensitivity to light and loud noises, dry skin, abnormal fat distribution, rage episodes, histrionic behavior. They also have low levels of arachidonic acid. Treatment centers on correcting a double deficiency of B-6, zinc essential fatty acids and augmenting nutrients. It is believed to result from abnormal hemoglobin synthesis which depletes the body of these nutrients. A positive response often occurs within the first seven days of treatment, with 1-2 months usually required for correction of the imbalance. Omega 3s can worsen mental symptoms in bipolar or schizophrenic patients.... if they have a pyrrole disorder. This phenotype is dramatically short of arachidonic acid & giving omega 3 oils aggravates the situation since omega 3 and omega 6 EFA's are in competition for delta 5,6 desaturases. We use red blood cell membrane analysis for EFA's if we suspect this problem. Pyroluric mental patients will usually get worse if given fish oils, DHA, EPA, etc. They thrive on Primrose Oil, a good source of AA and other omega 6s. (June 23, 2003) Most persons with pyroluria respond very quickly to the B-6, Zn, C, E therapy..... Major improvements are often seen by the 2nd day, and almost always by the end of the first week. The exceptions are: (1) persons with severe mental illness (schizophrenia or bipolar), (2) persons with other significant chemical imbalances, and (3) patients with a major malabsorptive condition. When pyroluria is diagnosed along with another chemical imbalance, I like to track a patient during the first 6-8 weeks to determine which is the dominant imbalance. If major improvement occurs immediately, it's because pyroluria has been corrected. Some patients report a nice early improvement followed by a plateau, and then another advance. Schizophrenic and bipolar pyrolurics usually report some progress after a few weeks, but it may take 3-6 months to get to steady state. The biggest problem with the Kp analysis is getting a proper sample to the lab. The kryptopyrrole molecule is unstable and will disappear rapidly at room temperature or if exposed to bright light. The urine sample must be placed in a freezer immediately after acquisition. Kp can be lost in the freezer if the temperature isn't well below 32 degrees F. We've also learned that exposure to bright light results in breakdown of the Kp molecule. Finally, the sample must be maintained in a frozen condition during shipment. I would greatly suspect any Kp value below 3.0. Usually this means the sample didn't get to the lab in proper condition. With respect to reference levels: We consider a healthy level to be between 4-8 mcg/dL. We consider persons between 10 and 20 to have mild pyroluria, and a good response to treatment is usually reported. Persons exhibiting 20 to 50 mcg/dL have moderate pyroluria, which can be a devastating condition. Persons above 50 mcg/dL have severe pyroluria.

Histamines and methylation

http://www.healthrecovery.com/HRC_2006/Depression_06/D_roller_coaster.htm How It Works in the Brain In your hypothalamus, histamine stimulates the release of the important neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Another role of brain histamine is to counterbalance dopamine in that area of the brain that filters sensory information coming into your brain. With too little histamine, dopamine levels are elevated. The result of too low histamine can be thought disorders or even hallucinations that feel like your mind is playing tricks on you. Other psychiatric symptoms develop when too MUCH histamine heightens and distorts the release of these key neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. When abnormally high, histamine will cause over stimulation, aggressiveness, compulsivity, and a racing brain (among other symptoms.) Histamine and Prostaglandin E1 Appear Linked Histamine levels and PGE1 levels (made from Omega 6 essential fatty acids) have recently been shown to move in the same direction. The same natural substances raise and lower both histamine and PGE1 in the brain and body. Their interrelationship is significant as we set out to repair the many psychological and psychiatric problems that their abnormal levels trigger in us. Description of a Low Histimine Child Dr. Linus Pauling in Orthomolecular Psychiatry gives us a composite case history of a low histamine person: "The patient is a hyperactive male child who is unnaturally healthy. For example, the rest of the family may get head colds, but this low histamine child misses the cold, or the virus infection fails to produce a rhinitis. He is hypo-allergic ... he may show no signs of pain even when seriously bruised or when a venous blood sample is obtained. Corporal punishment is relatively useless because a slap causes little pain. The child is constantly active and sleeps poorly. His attention span is short so learning is poor. Although his ability in some areas may be high when tested, a high degree of disperceptions may be present, such as sensory, time, body, self, and perception of others." *****A high protein diet worked best as it provides the needed amino acid histidine, which easily converts to histamine. Refined carbohydrates, i.e. sugar, white flour, junk foods, were prohibited. Seth had been living on white flour in the form of white bread sandwiches, crackers, potato chips, and pasta. He loved cookies and sweets. The family loved colas and kept a ready supply on hand. Seth's special diet needs meant no more junk food in the house. Copper and Low Histimine A recent client was living on two anti-depressant drugs, Wellbutrin and Effixor, but still felt anxious and depressed and had bouts of crying. Brett complained that he had lost his sex drive, tired easily, felt irritable and frustrated most of the time. His growing paranoia had affected his job relationships. Lab testing showed not only low histamine levels but abnormally high hair copper: eight times the normal level. The toxic effect of copper stems from its properties as a nervous stimulant. Excess copper creates histapenia (low histamine) by decreasing histamine in the brain. Copper contains the enzymes that regulate histamine, and too much copper allows histamine degradation to take place. The lowered histamine levels in turn, allow more copper to accumulate. High copper in the brain can cause a state of restlessness, insomnia, violence, depression, irritability, paranoia, and high blood pressure. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Histadelia – HIGH Histamine 1.) Histadelics are often over stimulated, almost manic; their compulsive drives may lead them to alcohol to break their inner tension and buy them some peace. 2.) Sleep is a problem. They are light sleepers, usually needing seven or less hours. Insomnia can be severe. 3.) If histamine levels get too high, phobias, compulsions and blank-mindedness develop. These people are the perfectionists and the "doers" that never seem to know how to relax. Histamine increases their cellular metabolism so their body temperature may be above normal and they burn up their food quickly. Typically histadelics have no problem with weight gain. If there is a weight problem, it is coming from food and chemical allergies that set off hunger or binging. Upon identification and avoidance of these allergic triggers, histadelics will slowly lose unwanted body weight (this process may take a full year) and recover the natural high energy levels that their allergies were masking. 4.) Because of their elevated metabolic rate and higher body temperature, their bodies develop anatomically to help dissipate the extra heat: ears, nose, hands and feet may be enlarged. Fingers and toes are usually long. I often ask clients to show me their second toe. In a histadelic, it is frequently longer than their big toe. They also have very little facial and chest hair, again helping to promote more rapid loss of extra body heat. (This is the mate who keeps turning down the thermostat!) 5.) Suicidal depression puts these people at high risk because they have the energy to carry out a suicide plan and the impulsiveness to act quickly without thinking it over. Not all histadelics are depressed. It is not known why some have depression and others do not. 6.) Since histamine produces an abundant production of fluid secretions, histadelics have an overproduction of saliva that keeps their teeth free of cavities. (Sometimes, saliva is literally dripping from the corners of their mouth.) Sexual orgasms are easy because of their increased mucous. This mucous also accounts for assisting the smaller, faster male sperm to win the race to fertilize the egg, so high histamine families produce mostly male children. 7.) Most histadelics have a very low pain threshold and will over-react, to pain. Headaches and respiratory allergies are common. The High Histamine Child Most histadelic children are very self-motivated and achievement-oriented. However, some are so self-directed that they resent giving up their control to a parent or teacher. They can't stand being told what to do by adults. These youngsters become disruptive within their families and classrooms. Physical discipline only causes their behavior to intensify. They may not easily make friends with their peers, preferring much younger children or adults. If counseling is pushed, it typically will be a failure. A diagnosis of "oppositional defiant disorder" often results. These children tend to get obsessively hooked on activities. This can be advantageous to the child who pursues learning or sports, but will present problems if the focus is on negative activities like playing video games excessively. Drug use among histadelic (high histamine) teens is five times as likely as with histapenic (low histamine) young people. These drugs steadily worsen their nervous system imbalances. If they start cigarettes, they may become chain-smokers. It is important to channel their compulsive-obsessive tendencies into productive activities. If you suspect your own child fits this category, a blood test will be able to pinpoint their histamine levels. Usually no drugs are required to lower histamine, as you will see from the formula a the end of this section. To have high-normal histamine levels is a real blessing. The natural energy and drive to succeed in life gives this type a competitive edge. The danger lies in letting histamine rise to such high levels that there is suicidal depression or impulsive sexual addiction or obsessions that are uncontrollable. How To Treat Histamine levels will decrease and symptoms lessen in response to daily doses of methionine, an amino acid that significantly detoxifies histamine by methylating the ring structure forming N-methyl-histamine in the brain. Typical dose is a 500 mg capsule taken four times daily. Calcium, taken morning and evening, releases additional histamine stores and lowers levels in the body. With magnesium, it acts as a natural tranquilizer. If your histamine level is extremely high, your physician may prescribe the drug Dilantin (phenytoin) that works rapidly to interfere with histamine and bring levels back to normal. The dose is 100 mg morning and evening. I have not liked the side effects that I've watched from Dilantin, so its' use should be reserved for difficult cases only. Avoid a high protein diet as most proteins contain histidine, the amino acid from which you will synthesize even more histamine. A preferable diet is one high in vegetables and fruits. Do You Have Low Histamine? The following screen will reveal a strong indication of Low Histamine. (A lab test will then be a good investment for confirmation.) (Ten or more indicates possible Histapenia.) The Histapenic (Low Histamine) Screening Test 1. Do you get canker sores? 2. Do you have slow sexual responsiveness or a low libido? 3. Do you have tension headaches or seldom have headaches? 4. Do you have heavy growth or body hair? 5. Do you tend to carry any excess fat in your lower extremities rather than evenly distributed around your body? (pear shaped) 6. Do you have a lot of dental fillings? 7. Do you have a head full of grand plans but are easily frustrated? 8. Are you suspicious of people or feel paranoid? 9. Have you ever heard voices inside your head? 10. Are you able to stand pain well? 11. Do you have ringing in your ears? 12. Do you get few or no colds? 13. Do you have low tolerance for medications or drugs? 14. Do you tire easily? 15. Do you need at least 8 hours sleep - are you a slow riser in the morning? 16. Is your mouth usually dry? 17. Do you have tendency to despair, or have bouts of crying? 18. Frequent irritability? Copyright©2001 Health Recovery Center, Inc. All Rights Reserved Low Histamine (Paranoia) Formula * Bio-Ester C * Histidine (3 bottles) * Bio-GLA (2 bottles) * Bio-Omega-3 Liquid * Folic Acid * Bio-Niacin (No Flush) * Bio-Zinc (Reacted) * Querciplex (2 bottles) * L-Tryptophan (2 bottles) * B-12 (Methylcobalamin) * Manganese Do You Have High Histamine? The following screen is used at Health Recovery Center to determine the likelihood of excessive blood histamine. The Histadelia (High Histamine) Screen 1. Do you tend to sneeze in bright sunlight? 2. Were you a shy and over-sensitive teenager? 3. Can you make tears easily and are never bothered by a lack of saliva or dry mouth? 4. Do you hear your pulse in your head on the pillow at night? 5. Do you have frequent muscle cramps? 6. Do you have a high sensitivity to pain? 7. Do you have easy orgasms with sex, and hi libido? 8. Do you get headaches regularly? 9. At times does your mind go blank? 10. Do you have seasonal allergies, such as hay fever? 11. Do you tend to be a light sleeper? 12. Do you need only 5 to 7 hours sleep nightly? 13. Do you burn up foods rapidly? 14. Have you thought seriously of suicide? 15. Can you tolerate high doses of medication or drugs? 16. Do you have large ears and long fingers or toes? (Is your second to as long as your big toe?) 17. Are you addicted to drugs, alcohol, or sugar? 18. Are you an obsessive, Type A person who feels driven or a perfectionist? 19. Are you impulsive? 20. Do boys predominate among your siblings? Copyright©2001 Health Recovery Center, Inc. All Rights Reserved