Feel Good Biomedic
Feel Good Biomedic
Feel Good Biochemistry is a book that allows you to take control and chart your own path to
health and wellness. Unlike my other books, it is not a book that you read all the way through
once, garner the necessary information, and set aside. This book is meant to be an interactive
guide that you refer to frequently, more like a dictionary or the GPS in your car. It is intended to
help you and your doctor know how to proceed when you get a test result back. It explains what I
would do if I were commenting on your tests, and gives you the science and the rationale that is
behind my thinking.
Your unique DNA, and the traits defined by the genes in that DNA is something that has been
inherited from your biological parents. While your DNA does not change over time, the ability to
turn on or off the genes within your DNA is affected by external factors including diet, toxins,
and nutrients.
Nutrigenomics includes the study of how nutrients may turn on or off specific genes to alter the
risk of health issues. Nutrigenomic testing is a measure of imbalances, or mutations in the DNA
of these nutritional pathways, that in turn influence the ability to turn on or off your genes.
Nutrigenomic SNP testing is something you run only once in your lifetime. The Feel Good
Nutrigenomics book that I have written, describes in detail the value of nutrigenomic testing, and
approaches supplementation based on nutrigenomic data. I have also shared a computer based
program for looking at SNPs that is available online at no cost
through www.knowyourgenetics.com. Additional information about nutrigenomics, as well as
biochemical testing, is available in the DVD series that covers both of these topics
comprehensively.
Nutrigenomic data is just one piece of a larger puzzle that relates to health. The comprehensive
program that I introduced assumes that underlying genetic susceptibility, infectious agents (virus,
bacteria, yeast), environmental toxins (mercury, aluminum, cadmium, lead, etc.), and stress, all
impact your health. The idea behind the program is not only to look at SNPs, but also to work
with your own doctor to run a variety of non-invasive tests that are designed to detect imbalances
in your biochemical pathways, and to address those imbalances with natural supports and dietary
choices. The goal is to address underlying issues, not just band aid symptoms.
I view biochemical tests as signs along a highway. They let you know where you are in your
journey towards optimal function, and how much further you need to go to reach your goal.
Many individuals run nutrigenomic testing to see where the imbalances are in their Methylation
Cycle. They then add what appears to be appropriate supplementation based on those
nutrigenomic results to support the short cut and the long route around the cycle. Then they ask
me on the discussion group what they should add next. My question to them is always, “What
are your biochemical tests looking like?” Asking me what to do next without running
biochemical testing is like being on your way from your hometown to my rural town in Maine,
and calling me to ask what route to take. How can you ask which route to take if you cannot
answer where you are located? How can you ask how much longer your trip will take if you
don’t know where you are on the Roadmap? This program can help you to plot your Roadmap to
Health, but you need to have a sense of where you are in order to know what step to take next.
The purpose of biochemical testing is to follow up on the supplementation you are using based
on nutrigenomic testing. While you would not want to try to get along without nutrigenomic
testing, especially if your illness is significant, biochemical testing might be considered even
more clarifying than nutrigenomic testing. If you have not run a nutrigenomic test, you can still
get a sense of where you are on your Roadmap to Health by running biochemical tests.
Regardless of whether or not you have nutrigenomic SNP data, regular biochemical testing lets
you know where you are and what supplements may make a positive impact for you.
Nutrigenomic SNP testing gives you an idea about your underlying genetic weaknesses, but
sequential biochemical testing gives you indispensable feedback on how well your current
nutritional support is working.
Unlike DNA based SNP testing, follow up biochemical testing is something you should run
routinely to check that the supplementation you are using is actually making a difference.
The tests I work from are noninvasive in nature and can be run from the privacy of your own
home. I find that there is much better compliance when you have control over when and where
you take a test. You can also run additional blood tests with your own doctor to supplement the
results from urine, hair and fecal testing.
The information contained in this book represents an approach to interpreting test results that is
based upon a significant background in molecular biology and genetics. It is reflective of my
conviction that physical manifestations, such as symptoms and behavior, have their origins in
biochemistry. Those origins can be discovered and addressed, giving you greater control over
your own health and overall sense of wellbeing.
This book systematically goes through the various biochemical tests that I use for my protocol. It
steps you through how to use these tests to guide your supplement choices. This program is
designed to be implemented in conjunction with your doctor, to help you and your doctor
understand how to use biochemical test data to guide supplementation choices in order to
customize this program for your optimal health.
My hope for this book is that it helps each one of you achieve your maximum possible health and
wellness. Many of the adults looking toward this protocol have been sick for ten or twenty years,
having tried most of the options available, and come to this program on only a very thin thread of
hope. Others reading this book have children on the autism spectrum and have been depleted
emotionally and financially without significant progress. My goal is to give all of you hope, and
the guidance necessary so that you can implement this program with the help of your own
doctor.
For those of you reading this book merely looking to increase your lifespan or for prevention, I
am thrilled that you are not dealing with chronic illness, and I expect this book will help you and
your doctor to choose supplements based on biochemical testing to address longevity and overall
health.
At this point, we have almost 70 thousand individuals on my facebook page worldwide, and
almost 20 thousand following the program on the chat group. Those individuals include adults
with a range of health problems including CFS, FM, POTS, MS, ALS, Lupus, and depression, as
well as younger individuals with autism, ADD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I am
filled with love and hope for health for all of you, and I extend those wishes to anyone reading
this book. It is my hope that by sharing my rationale behind supplement suggestions based on
biochemical testing, it will enable you with your doctor to achieve the health you desire.
Dr. Amy
CHAPTER 1
HAIR ELEMENTS ANALYSIS
An ideal starting point for testing is to run a Hair Elements Analysis. I abbreviate this test to the
acronym HMT. The HMT gives you a sense of the long term status of both toxic and essential
minerals in your body. While the urine and fecal metal tests described in Chapters 2 and 3 are
useful, the HMT gives you a broader time view of what is going on with the minerals in your
system. It takes about three months for the one inch of hair that is closest to your scalp to grow.
This is the sample of hair that is tested, so you get a measurement of the amount of the element
that was excreted in your hair over that time period.
I look at a HMT the same way you would view counting the rings on a cross section of a tree to
know how old the tree is. While fecal and urine testing give you up to the moment data, the
amount of an element excreted on the day you collected the sample, the HMT gives you a
historical sense of the major areas of mineral balance to focus on. An example of the centrality
and the value of the HMT data I have been accumulating over the past decade is my finding that
low lithium is a key feature for adults as well as children with a range of health issues.
Lithium plays a role in B12 transport into the cell. B12 functions at a very critical juncture in the
process of making methyl groups, as well as a range of other functions in your body. You want
to be certain that you have adequate lithium in your body prior to adding high doses of B12
because of the interaction of lithium with B12 transport. If you add B12 and other supplements
that activate what I call the long route around the methylation cycle, the route that uses
Methionine Synthase (MTR) and Methionine Synthase Reductase (MTRR), prior to being sure
that you have enough lithium in your body, then you run the risk of further depleting your
lithium levels, which can cause symptoms and consequences.
It is also important to be sure that potassium is in balance and well supported when adding
lithium. Addressing both minerals at the same time is useful, as low levels of both lithium and
potassium can induce aggressive and anti-social behavior. Energy supplements can also impact
lithium levels, as well as a number of other minerals, including potassium. If there is not
sufficient energy being generated by the mitochondria in your cells, this can cause low lithium,
low potassium, and problems maintaining adequate levels of other minerals. Mitochondrial
support can be a help in these cases.
The HMT also gives you a sense of the balance between calcium and magnesium, as well as zinc
and copper. Ideally magnesium should be higher than calcium, because calcium works with
glutamate to cause over excitation of nerves. Excess copper relative to zinc can be a factor in
attention problems. Correct copper and zinc levels are also important for neurotransmitter
balance, since copper is a cofactor for the enzymes that break down dopamine and serotonin.
The HMT is also useful in determining molybdenum balance. Molybdenum and B12 work
together with the enzyme sulfite oxidase to detoxify sulfate from your body. Sulfur levels on the
HMT can be seen as a secondary measure of your need for molybdenum and B12 support. If the
sulfur on your HMT is high, you want to be sure that your body has adequate levels of
molybdenum and B12.
Those who are SHMT +, or who have significant bacterial imbalances, should limit iron
supplementation, or use nutrients to help balance iron if the levels are high on a HMT or
UTM/UEE. Iron can increase bacterial virulence, and it increases the activity of the SHMT
pathway, so ideally, serum iron levels should be checked. Consider also checking Ferritin, Total
Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), % Saturation, and your Reticulocyte Count for a complete
reading on iron if you are concerned about your iron levels.
The HMT gives you useful information on additional essential minerals, as well as a sense of the
level of toxic metal excretion from your body. When you know what toxins are being excreted,
you can supplement with compounds that may help escort them from your body. Different
‘escorts’ are applicable for different toxic metals. Aluminum requires different escorts
than mercury or nickel. I suggest running a HMT at least twice a year, and for those individuals
who are MTR +, or who show very low lithium levels on a HMT, then running a HMT every 3 to
4 months to be certain that essential elements stay in balance is a good idea.
Finally, when there is a high level of excretion of many essential minerals at the same time,
meaning if you are seeing black lines to the right for multiple essential minerals, this can be a
sign that more mitochondrial support is needed. In this case, running a MAP test to look at
energetic markers, as well as adding additional mitochondrial support, can be considered.
Extremely low potassium and lithium, in the absence of an MTR + status, may also be a sign that
more mitochondrial support is needed.
This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for
TOXIC
your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as
METALS
always.
Aluminum Aluminum can impact the Krebs energy cycle, so consider a Metabolic Analysis Profile
(MAP test) if high levels are seen on a HMT. Also, aluminum can negatively impact
tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels, which in turn affects dopamine, serotonin and
melatonin levels. A Neopterin / Biopterin Profile Urine Test can be run to help
evaluate BH4 levels. Consider adding MetalAway, or selenium, horsetail grass, low
dose EDTA, and malic acid. Also, you can use additional EDTA and EDTA soap or soak
as tolerated. IF you do not have shellfish allergies, consider using BactiSolve. Use
MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules and/or BH4 to help support BH4 levels.
Consider Vitamin E succinate if succinate levels are low on the MAP test. You can also
run a UAA test to look at phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan levels as another
means to determine the need to consider BH4 support. If you and your doctor want
to push harder on excretion of toxins including aluminum, you can consider the
DetoxAway supplement, but as always work with and defer to your own doctor.
Antimony can bind to ‘thiol’, which means SH groups. These SH groups are needed to
help escort mercury from your system. Also, antimony may inhibit the MAO enzymes,
which may interfere with the natural breakdown of dopamine and serotonin.
Antimony can accumulate in your adrenals and thus play a role in fatigue. Consider
Antimony
adding sources of ‘thiol’ groups, such as Selenium, MetalAway, or DetoxAway.
Consider low dose Wasabi, low dose Selenocysteine, and/or low dose Ion Transport
compound, which has both Wasabi and Selenocysteine. Broccoli and Garlic are also
options. Also, consider OraAdrenal for adrenal support.
Barium can displace potassium, and may cause an increase in stress hormones. It may
also cause tingling and weakness of muscles.Consider potassium support with
Potassium Citrate. If Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test, then use Krebs
Barium Magnesium-Potassium Chelates. If gut pH is very low then consider Potassium
Bicarbonate. Also, Stress Foundation nucleotide blend and low dose Muscle Support
nucleotide blend may be a help. In addition, Padma Basic may help with weak muscles
and restless leg syndrome if they are issues.
High levels of beryllium may affect lymphocyte proliferation and respiratory function,
as well as cause adrenal insufficiency and fatigue. Consider T cell and B cell support
Beryllium capsules for immune support. OraAdrenal may also be used for additional support.
The Muscle Fatigue Support compound supplement can be considered if fatigue is an
issue. Low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend may also be helpful.
High level excretion of bismuth, in the absence of any bismuth supplementation, may
be an indicator for H. pylori, so testing to rule out H. pylori should be considered.
Bismuth Since high level bismuth excretion in the absence of any support can lead to depletion
of bismuth over time, consider low level bismuth support with Peptimycin or its
equivalent. Rule out H. pylori.
High levels of cadmium can cause significant symptoms. Your body uses zinc as a
cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. However, if zinc is deficient, your body will
replace it with cadmium. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic table, so it fits
perfectly into zinc binding sites. Enzymes that make protein, such as RNA transferase,
and alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme involved in alcohol processing, are impacted
by this problem. Other important enzymes are also negatively impacted. Cadmium
may also bind to glutathione (GSH) making it ineffective. It may also negatively impact
bone health and cause respiratory symptoms. Consider supporting with Zinc
Lozenges. Krebs Zinc can be added if your Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test.
Also, consider MetalAway and/or EDTA and EDTA soap to help escort cadmium from
Cadmium your system. Since cadmium can bind GSH, consider supporting with GSH. Low dose
Bone Support nucleotide blend may also be helpful. Cadmium may decrease the
Cytochrome P450 enzyme system, so consider Indole-3-carbinol to support CYP 450.
Since cadmium replaces zinc in arteries, adults may want to consider low dose Heart
Support nucleotide blend and Hawthorn Extract. Also, consider Vitamin E and low
dose Ion Transport support capsules for high cadmium, to help prevent the cadmium
induced suppression of the CFTR enzyme. Also, work on supporting methylation, as
weak methylation capacity is related to susceptibility to cadmium.In addition, lithium,
which is in both BeCalm Spray and All in One, may help to protect against the negative
impacts of cadmium, especially with respect to hormones such as testosterone, LH,
and FSH.
Lead Lead can deposit in bone and replace calcium there. Lead can also affect ATPase,
which reduces the production of this energy molecule. This negatively impacts both
sodium and potassium levels, as well as energy production. Lead can bind melatonin,
tryptophan, and serotonin. Consider a MAP test and a Neurotransmitter Urine Test to
look at energy markers, as well as neurotransmitter levels. Lead excretion can cause
pica, teeth/jaw grinding & aggression. Eating inedible objects may be a sign that lead
is being excreted. You may need to consider support to help escort it from your
system. Elevated 5-amino levulinic acid (ALA) due to lead toxicity can inhibit Gamma
amino butyric acid (GABA), so consider extra GABA if needed. Since lead replaces
calcium in bones, consider low dose Bone Support nucleotide blend. Vitamin D and K
impact calcium absorption, so add a mineral combination that includes vitamin D and
K, such as Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK. Also, for bone health, watch strontium and boron
levels. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to support strontium and boron. Also,
consider EDTA and MetalAway (or selenium + horsetail grass + low dose EDTA + malic
acid) to help escort lead from your system. Also, use additional EDTA in EDTA soap or
soak as tolerated. Consider using BactiSolve if you have no shellfish allergies, as
another source of EDTA. Consider ATP and/or MitoForce to support ATPase.
Platinum can cause wheezing, excessive mucous in your nose, and dermatitis.
Consider Zinc Lozenges and low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend. Also,
Platinum
Serraflazyme and Air Power and the Muscle Fatigue Support compound can help with
mucous.
Thallium inhibits mitochondrial energy and ATP. It also inhibits DNA and RNA
synthesis. It may cause hair loss and anorexia. Thallium can also cause riboflavin to be
sequestered in the body, so Riboflavin-5-Phosphate support should be considered,
Thallium especially if MAP test results show imbalances in the Krebs energy cycle. Consider
support with ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to address the impact of
thallium on energy. Also, use All in One for low dose DNA and RNA support, and
AHCY/SHMT compound or direct addition of nucleotides.
Thorium can bind to digestive enzymes. Consider Special Digestive Enzymes. Run a
Thorium
CSA test and GI Effects test to check on digestion.
Uranium can readily combine with nucleotides in your body and can deposit in your
bones. It can also cause chronic fatigue. Test your home water supply with a Water
Elements Test, and do a radon air test if you continue to excrete high levels of
uranium over time. Consider All in One for low dose nucleotide support. Consider
Uranium AHCY/SHMT compound for nucleotide support, or direct nucleotide supplementation.
Consider using Muscle Fatigue Support compound and low dose Bone Support
nucleotide blend. Consider Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK so that vitamin D and K are present to
help with calcium absorption. To support your DNA in the presence of high levels of
uranium, also consider Ultifend and Quercetin.
Nickel can cause significant skin rashes, allergies, dermatitis and inflammation.
Consider Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, especially when phosphorus is low and nickel
Nickel toxicity is present. Consider nucleotide blends such as General Support nucleotide
blend and Cytokine Balance nucleotide blend to help with itching. Clear Skin spray
may be used for topical skin support.
Excess silver may cause a blue gray color to your skin. Consider MTHFR A1298C Liver
Silver Support capsules and low dose Liver Support nucleotide blend to support your liver,
as well as GSH to help with toxin excretion.
Tin may cause liver pain, and may be more of an issue if your system tends to be
acidic. Check your pH on a CSA test or GI Effects test, and/or use pH strips on first
morning urine samples. Work to get pH to around 7 with Buffer pH, VitaOrgan, and/or
Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend. If your potassium is low, then consider
Tin
Potassium Bicarbonate. Also, consider Indole-3-carbinol to support cytochrome P450
enzymes that may be decreased due to tin. Also, consider Special Digestive Enzymes.
Consider MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules, and low dose Liver Support
nucleotide blend for liver support.
Titanium may be a factor in respiratory issues. Consider GSH and low dose Respiratory
Titanium
Support nucleotide blend.
This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for
ESSENTIAL
your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as
ELEMENTS
always.
Calcium Ideally, your test will show more magnesium relative to calcium. Excess calcium can
work with glutamate to cause excitotoxicity, so high levels of calcium may cause
symptoms if glutamate is also high. Your goal for calcium is to be in the low range of
normal, with magnesium in the high range of normal. Since vitamin D and K help with
calcium absorption, less calcium support may be needed if vitamin D and K are
supplemented. Check to see if boron is being dumped, as boron is often dumped with
low vitamin D. So, high level calcium and boron dumping may indicate a need for
Vitamin D. If calcium is higher than 650ppm or 65%, it may indicate copper toxicity.
There may be a greater need for calcium support with a high protein diet.
Guaifenisen, which is used for chronic fatigue, may help pull down high calcium.
Guaifenisen is low dose in Muscle Fatigue Support compound, or in Air Power. Other
supplements used to help control high calcium include Vinpocetine, Boswellia, ATP
and/or MitoForce. These may support better calcium balance because they support
mitochondrial function, and mitochondria may act as sinks to buffer the effects of
calcium overload. Potassium, and the phosphorus in Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, may
reduce high level calcium dumping in urine. If calcium levels are too low, consider
herbs that support calcium in a complexed form, such as Nettle, Chamomile, or
Chervil. The use of Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK compound also supports calcium in a balanced
fashion. Low calcium can play a role in back pain, menstrual cramps, and brittle nails.
Boron deficiency may cause dumping of calcium and magnesium in urine, in which
case consider the Bone Support capsules.
Magnesium can help if you have excess glutamate in your system. It is preferable to
have higher magnesium relative to calcium in your body, because calcium works with
glutamate to cause over excitation of nerves, and magnesium helps to balance this.
Boron deficiency may cause dumping of calcium and magnesium in urine. Check
boron to be sure that it is not causing low magnesium levels. Low taurine can cause
magnesium dumping, so be sure methylation support is in place to support healthy
taurine levels. You do not want very high taurine levels, nor do you want low levels.
The goal is taurine in a normal range. This can be measured on a UAA test. Low
dietary magnesium may contribute to aluminum-induced degenerative conditions.
Magnesium
Consider support with Magnesium Citrate, Magnesium Oxide, or Magnesium Malate.
Magnesium glycinate is non-optimal, as glycine can exacerbate glutamate toxicity if
your levels of glutamate are high. Amino acid chelates of minerals are not always
ideal, especially if you have symptoms of excitotoxicity, because they include
glutamate and aspartate. I occasionally recommend them, and we do stock them, so
just be aware of this when you are ordering minerals.Basic methylation support
includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation
Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is shown to be in balance on a HMT, then
consider low dose Methylmate A, Methylmate B, and extra B12.
Your goal is to keep sodium in the normal range, without its being too low or excreted
to a high degree. The use of Ion Transport compound and low dose Ion Transport
Support nucleotide blend may be a help. Sodium is co-absorbed with a range of other
nutrients, such as amino acids, glucose and peptides, so supporting healthy ion
transport can be useful.Since sodium and potassium transport across your cell
Sodium
membrane uses energy, consider ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to
support sodium/potassium ATPase. Also, consider using low dose Ion Transport
compound and low dose Ion Transport Support nucleotide blend. In addition, the use
of Sodium or Potassium Bicarbonate may be considered if your pH is low on a CSA test
or GI Effects test, as a way to support both sodium and a more balanced pH.
Potassium Potassium levels drop coordinately with low lithium, so support potassium when you
are taking lithium. Low potassium can cause rubidium levels to drop. Your body
replaces potassium with rubidium when potassium is deficient. This can create a
rubidium deficit, which is a factor in aggressive behavior. Use potassium to support
rubidium. Potassium levels that are less than 50ppm or 5%, may indicate copper
toxicity. Barium and cesium may displace or interfere with potassium function.
Additional potassium support may be needed if you have high levels of barium or
cesium excretion. Also, low levels of potassium may be caused by hydrogen sulfide
(H2S) triggering efflux of potassium, so check sulfur levels on the HMT and UEE, as
well as taurine levels on a UAA. High levels of taurine on a UAA may indicate higher
than ideal H2S levels in your system, which can then cause low potassium levels. Low
levels of potassium can be a factor in the production of acne. Potassium Citrate can
be used along with food sources of potassium to support potassium. If your pH is low
on a CSA test or GI Effects test, then Potassium Bicarbonate can be used both to
support potassium and to help balance pH. If Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP
test, consider Potassium Krebs Intermediates if you do not have glutamate/ GABA
imbalance. Potassium transport across the cell membrane is an energetic process, so
consider ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to support
sodium/potassium ATPase if your potassium is low. Arginine may have a positive
impact on potassium levels. Those who struggle with consistently low potassium,
especially athletes, may consider low dose Arginine support if your levels of arginine
are low on a UAA test. AminoAssist is one source of low dose arginine.
Copper Ideally, your copper levels should be lower than zinc to favor a higher zinc to copper
ratio. High copper has been implicated in ADD. Copper is the cofactor that works with
the enzymes MAO A and MAO B to break down dopamine and serotonin, so high
copper may engender a higher degree of degradation of these two neurotransmitters.
Running a Neurotransmitter Urine Test and a MAP test gives you an indication of both
the levels of serotonin and dopamine, and a measure of their breakdown. Excess
copper has also been reported to cause fearful thoughts. If copper replaces zinc in
your brain, it may be a factor in migraines, so zinc support may help you with this, as
well as bring your copper into better balance. Much less frequently, the issue is
actually low copper. Low copper may cause high histamine. The enzyme that breaks
down histamine is a copper containing MAO type of enzyme, so if your copper is low,
check to see if your histamine is high. Quercetin will help pull down histamine but
inhibits COMT, so use quercetin in moderation. A natural source of quercetin is
cherries. Cherries are also a source of melatonin. Tart Cherry Extract is reported to be
helpful for gout. Low copper may also be a factor in de-pigmentation of hair and skin.
Ways to help bring copper into better balance include the use of Molybdenum, Zinc,
Carnosine, and increased EDTA. EDTA is found in MetalAway, EDTA soap or soak,
and DetoxAway. You can also use BactiSolve if you have NO shellfish allergies. Check
molybdenum levels, because often copper will be high when molybdenum is too low.
Molybdenum can be low due to high taurine, which is measured on a UAA test. When
taurine is processed via sulfite oxidase, molybdenum can become depleted. In
addition, high levels of sulfur can have the same effect of depleting molybdenum.
Molybdenum may also be depleted due to chronic yeast infections, which can be
checked on a Vaginosis Test, or in the gut via a CSA test or a GI function test. An
alkaline environment limits copper, so work to get pH in balance, meaning having a
pH close to 7. You can use Buffer pH, Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend,
Potassium Bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate, depending on your need for either
sodium or potassium. VitaOrgan also helps to balance your pH.
As with magnesium, zinc helps to control the calcium and glutamate interaction that
can lead to over excitation of nerves. Doses of zinc above 40 mg per day can actually
stimulate excitotoxin activity, so your goal is to keep zinc in the high range of normal
with under 40 mg of supplementation per day. A deficiency of zinc may cause poor
wound healing, poor ability to smell or taste, and night blindness. Iron interferes with
zinc absorption, so keeping iron in proper balance is an important factor in achieving
proper zinc levels. When iron replaces zinc, it may cause blood sugar imbalances, so
consider support for the pancreas and pancreatic enzymes such as SDE when zinc is
low. Your body uses zinc as a cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. It prefers it.
However, if zinc is deficient, your body will replace it with cadmium or lead, both of
which are toxic metals. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic table of the
elements, so it fits perfectly into zinc binding sites. Cadmium may replace zinc in
enzymes that make important proteins, such as RNA transferase and alcohol
dehydrogenase, the enzyme involved in alcohol processing. These enzymes do not
function properly with cadmium replacing zinc. Cadmium may also replace zinc in
metallothionein, an important heavy metal binding agent. When zinc is low, lead can
Zinc
replace zinc in heme enzymes and impact the formation of red blood cells. So it is
important to keep zinc in the high normal range. Some studies suggest that low zinc
may increase the activity of the enzyme methionine synthase (MTR). This could in
turn lead to lower lithium levels and exacerbate MTR + status. Low dose methionine
support, which is contained in AminoAssist, may be helpful in these cases, along with
lithium support as indicated on this HMT. Zinc Lozenges are the form of zinc that is
particularly helpful and well absorbed. Consider Zinc Krebs Intermediates if your
levels of Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test, and you do not have
glutamate/GABA symptoms. If your iron is high on a HMT or UEE, consider
AHCY/SHMT compound and/or Lactoferrin to help keep iron in better balance.
Support your pancreas with VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules, Ora-Pancreas,
and/or Special Digestive Enzymes if your zinc is low and iron is high, to help with
blood sugar balance. When your zinc is low, consider Heart Support nucleotide blend
and Hawthorn Extract if you are an adult. Cadmium can replace zinc in the atrial wall
of your heart and may cause decreased flexibility and strength. Coffee may impair zinc
uptake and may lead to a need for increased zinc support.
Manganese Manganese is important for helping to process arginine, so consider supporting with
low dose Manganese if arginine is high on a UAA test. However, high levels of
manganese are a concern for the reasons described below. Ideally, your manganese
levels should be in the lower range of normal so that they are sufficient to support
reactions that require manganese without allowing levels to climb too high. Proper
manganese levels are important to preserve acetylcholine, an important
neurotransmitter. Low manganese can also impair the function of your Krebs energy
cycle. Low levels of manganese can cause hearing loss and low sex drive. Low
manganese can cause low cholesterol, imbalances in alkaline phosphatase levels, and
decreased T cells. Most bacteria use iron for growth, but Borrelia burgdorferi uses
manganese, so low manganese may be seen in Lyme disease. Manganese levels may
also drop with H. pylori infection. Consider ruling out H. pylori or Lyme disease if you
have chronically low levels of manganese. Iron can compete with manganese for
uptake, so be sure iron is in balance. To support low levels of manganese, consider
MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules, Manganese Drops, and Glucosamine/Chondroitin Plus.
Consider T cell and B cell support capsules immune support. AHCY/SHMT compound
or Lactoferrin may help to get iron in better balance. Conversely, excessively high
levels of manganese can cause psychosis as well as seizures. Excessive accumulation
of manganese causes a neurological condition called “manganism” that is
characterized by psychosis and eventually followed by symptoms similar to those
seen in Parkinson’s disease. High levels of manganese have also been associated with
ALS and biochemical changes similar to Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease
(Sidoryk-Wegrzynowicz, 2013). High levels of manganese can cause increases in
reactive oxygen species, (consider Ultifend), impair glutathione levels (consider GSH)
and increase inflammatory mediators (consider General Support nucleotide blend and
low dose TNF nucleotide blend). High dose manganese may also decrease dopamine
levels. Toxic doses of manganese can impact both GABA and taurine levels and affect
their transport. If an individual is intolerant to GABA supplementation in spite of
symptoms that suggest a need for GABA, then check manganese levels to be sure
they are not exceedingly high. The use of valerian root in conjunction with low dose
GABA may be a consideration for you and your doctor, as valerian may aid in GABA
transport. If high manganese is the issue, consider increased EDTA support. Working
with and deferring to your own doctor, consider the use of MetalAway
, DetoxAway, EDTA soap and soak, and additional EDTA capsules.If very high levels are
seen, rule out high manganese in your home water supply by using the Water
Elements Test. Some defective water filtration systems may be a source of higher
than ideal levels of manganese in your drinking and bathing water supply.
Low levels of chromium can be factors in ADD and anxiety. Low levels of chromium
Chromium may also be associated with blood sugar imbalances. Support can include Chromium
Picolinate and VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules.
High levels of vanadium may be related to bipolar symptoms. Vanadium can bind to
iron complexes, so be sure iron is in balance. Consider AHCY/SHMT compound or
Vanadium Lactoferrin to help with iron balance. Low vanadium levels may be an issue for blood
sugar balance. Consider using Vanadyl Sulfate, depending on your sulfur levels, and
VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules for low vanadium.
Molybdenum is critical for sulfite oxidase function, the enzyme that processes sulfite
to sulfate. Those who are sulfur sensitive should keep a close eye on molybdenum
levels. Sulfite oxidase follows CBS in the transsulfuration pathway, so excess CBS
activity can put more pressure on sulfite oxidase and generate a need for
molybdenum. Molybdenum is also needed to help keep copper in balance. High
copper has a number of non-optimal effects, including allowing the increased
breakdown of dopamine and serotonin. Molybdenum is also needed for xanthine
oxidase function. Significant xanthine oxidase may be present in homogenized milk,
Molybdenum
so those drinking milk may have a need for molybdenum support. Those who have
high levels of tungsten may need molybdenum support, as tungsten competes with
molybdenum. Those who are MTR + often show lower levels of molybdenum, so more
frequent HMT and UEE should be run to be sure molybdenum stays in balance.
Molybdenum can be supported with Molybdenum Capsules, MTR/MTRR/SUOX
capsules, Black Bear Spray, or Black Bear Drink. Molybdenum Drops can also be used,
although the liquid form is complexed with ammonia so this is not the preferred form
of support.
Low vitamin D levels may relate to low boron levels, so additional boron support may
be needed in areas of low sunlight during the winter. Also, those who are MTR + may
tend to have lower boron levels. Low boron may cause dumping of calcium and
Boron
magnesium in urine. Check boron levels when there is high level excretion of
magnesium and calcium in your urine. Bone Support capsule and/or
MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules can be added to help balance boron levels.
Low iodine can negatively impact your thyroid gland’s ability to produce thyroid
hormone, and cause bulging eyes, goiter, and a whole host of other symptoms. Low
iodine can cause excessive sweating, hair loss, dry skin and hair, as well as hand
tremors. High levels of iodine support may interfere with lithium levels. Since lithium
is important for B12 transport, be sure your lithium is in the normal to high normal
range, while keeping iodine in balance. Ideally, lithium should be higher than iodine
with both within normal range. Iodoral can be used to support iodine. A topical iodine
test can be used both to test and to support iodine levels. The topical iodine test is
Iodine
done as follows: apply a 2% solution of iodine in a circular area about the size of silver
dollar on your abdomen. The spot should be allowed to dry completely before putting
clothing over it, because iodine can permanently stain clothes. The spot should
remain visible for 12 to 24 hours. If the iodine disappears within 12 hours, it may
indicate iodine deficiency, which can be confirmed with this HMT. The skin absorbs
iodine at the rate at which it is needed, so applying iodine topically replaces it, as well
as gives you a broad stroke idea of its internal levels. Iodine levels can also be checked
using the Urine Iodine Test.
Lithium The role of lithium in B12 transport into the cell is potentially critically
important. Peer reviewed work by Tisman, Herbert, and Rosenblatt published in
the British Journal of Haematology was the first to illustrate that ingestion of
lithium is related to B12 binding. Continuing this research, Vanyo and
coworkers (Lithium in Biology and Medicine) discuss the finding that lack of
lithium and B12 deficiency share physiological features, and that support with
lithium enhances B12 transport into cells. According to these researchers,
lithium is associated with elevated levels of serum B12 binding capacity.
Furthermore, this group was able to show that lithium increases the transport of
folate into the cell, as well as that of B12.
Based on this research, it is important to look at lithium levels. I use the HMT
and the UTMEE in combination with each other to assess both lithium as well
as cobalt levels (as a measure of B12). You may also want to look at serum
lithium and B12. In cases in which lithium is low and/or serum B12 is
particularly high, use lithium support prior to the addition of high dose B12.
Lithium support is in All in One, Be Calm Spray, and Lithium Orotate.
Use these with the consent of your doctor. The rationale behind this is to ensure
that you have adequate lithium prior to adding high dose B12, because
increasing B12 in the absence of lithium support may further deplete lithium
levels due to the use of lithium to aid in the transport of the added B12. Ideally,
lithium should be in balance prior to adding excess B12 so as not to create
lithium depletion. Low dose maintenance nutritional levels of lithium support
are available in All in One and Be Calm Spray.
Lithium plays a range of additional roles in your body aside from B12 and
folate transport into your cells, so it is important not to deplete this pivotal trace
mineral. Lithium’s impact on mood stabilization has been known and used
clinically for many years, despite the fact that the mechanism by which this
occurs has not been fully elaborated. Norepinephrine imbalances have been
implicated in attention disorders, and Sastre and coworkers have illustrated an
impact of lithium on balancing norepinephrine levels.
Lithium stimulates white cells and platelets, so low levels of lithium may cause
low white cells. Myrrh may help for low white cells.
For general lithium support, consider All in One and Be Calm Spray. Always
support potassium when supplementing lithium.
For levels that are particularly low, consider Lithium Orotate plus some form of
potassium, usually Potassium Citrate. Run regular HMT to assess lithium levels
when adding lithium orotate. Those who are MTR + should do a HMT every 3
to 4 months.
Low lithium may also be an issue secondary to a need for mitochondrial energy
support. A MAP test can be run to look at energy markers. Support for
mitochondrial energy can include MitoForce, ATP, Riboflavin-5-
Phosphate, NADH, Krebs minerals.
Phosphorus If your phosphate is low, then your leucine may be high. According to published
literature, if phosphate is low, then leucine may be increased, which in turn may
increase glutamate and alpha KG. This can potentially cause hypoglycemia. Your level
of leucine can be checked on a UAA. Consider phosphate support when phosphate is
low, when hypoglycemia is an issue, when glutamate and leucine are high on a UAA
test, or when alpha ketoglutarate is either very high or very low on a MAP test. Cross
referencing between these tests is helpful when problem solving. Supplementing
phosphorus may help with excessive dumping of calcium in your urine. Copper
toxicity may be a factor when phosphorus is low. Check your copper levels. Riboflavin-
5-Phosphate can help support phosphorus, especially if nickel toxicity is present. Also
ATP and/or MitoForce help to support phosphorus. Phospholipids such as
Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC) and nucleic acids such as RNA can also
support phosphorus. Vitamin D may help with phosphorus absorption. Pumpkin seeds
are a natural source of phosphorus.
Selenium may become depleted with high level mercury excretion, as well as with the
excretion of a number of other toxic metals. Consider extra selenium support when
toxic metal excretion is observed. If selenium levels are low on a HMT, consider
additional support.Selenium is essential for the conversion of T4 to T3, T3 being the
active form of thyroid hormone. The de-iodinase enzymes that remove iodine atoms
from T4 during its conversion to T3 are selenium-dependent. So, consider selenium
when you have low thyroid symptoms. PABA, found in Ultimate B, and Niacinamide
can be considered as additional support for those who have indications of
autoimmune thyroid issues. Very high levels of selenium are toxic, so the goal is to be
within normal range for this mineral. Methylation cycle function is needed to remove
excess selenium, so until methylation support is in place, and you know you have
Selenium
good methylation pathway function, do not use high dose selenium. Consider support
with MetalAway or other sources of Selenium. Low dose Ion Transport compound is a
source of selenocystene, or consider low dose Selenocysteine. GSH and Vitamin E
succinate can aid in maintaining selenium levels. Excretion of mercury, antimony,
arsenic, and/or thorium may lead to a greater need for selenium
support. DetoxAway can be considered for higher dose support during detox once
effective methylation support is in place. As always, work with your doctor. Basic
methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC),
DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is shown to be in
balance on a HMT, then add low dose Methylmate A, Methylmate B, and extra B12 in
the appropriate form.
Strontium levels tend to be lower for those who are MTR +. Consider
Strontium MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules if your strontium is low, or being excreted excessively in
the face of no supplementation.
Sulfur High levels of sulfur can put excessive pressure on SUOX, the sulfite oxidase enzyme,
which appears below the cystathionine beta synthase (CBS) enzyme in the
transsulfuration pathway portion of the methylation cycle. Increased CBS activity can
free excessive sulfur groups that use SUOX, which may then become depleted. The
SUOX enzyme needs B12 and molybdenum for activity. So, high sulfur can result in
increased usage of B12 and molybdenum that are needed for other functions in your
body. Low molybdenum can mediate an increase in copper, and unbalance your
zinc/copper ratio, which can then affect attention, reduce heavy metal detox, and
cause other symptoms. Depletion of B12 can limit enzyme activity in the long route,
the reaction in your methylation cycle that uses the MTR and MTRR enzymes. If your
sulfur levels are high, consider using additional Molybdenum and B12 once your
lithium is in balance on a HMT. You may also consider using Black Bear Spray or Black
Bear Drink, which is a combination form of molybdenum and B12. Do a UAA test to be
sure that your taurine levels are not high, as high taurine can also put excessive
pressure on the sulfite oxidase enzyme. For low levels of sulfur support, use healthy
sulfur donors that have other positive attributes such as Garlic, Broccoli, Wasabi,
SAM-e, or N-Acetyl Cysteine.
All forms of B12, hydroxyl, adenosyl, methyl, and cyano, contain the element cobalt. It
is possible to follow cobalt levels on a HMT and UEE as a method for tracking B12
ingestion. Blood B12 levels can also be directly measured. If cobalt is low, first check
that lithium is in balance before adding high dose B12. As you increase B12 support,
follow with regular HMT testing to be sure lithium stays in balance. There are several
Cobalt
forms of B12. Hydroxy B12 is usually well tolerated and is used by everyone on this
protocol. Adenosyl B12 is also usually well tolerated. It is often a help for high
methylmalonic acid (MMA) levels on a MAP test, as well as to help process fats when
used in conjunction with Biotin. MethylB12 may be tolerated by those who are COMT
– and some who are COMT + -. It is used in limited ways in my protocol.
Iron Excess iron is pro-oxidant and drives bacterial virulence, so high iron on this test may
indicate issues with bacterial imbalances. If your iron is above the 50th percentile,
consider a CSA test and GI function test to check for unbalanced, non-optimal
organisms in your gut. Adult females may want to run a Vaginosis Test in addition, to
check for bacteria and yeast. Iron helps to increase SHMT activity, which diverts
methylation intermediates from both the MTR/MTRR enzyme reaction, what I call the
long route around the methylation pathway, and the BHMT enzyme reaction, the
short cut. Limiting iron is particularly important for those who are SHMT +. Iron can
bind tryptophan, so it may reduce serotonin levels. H2S frees up iron, so check taurine
and sulfur levels. If taurine and sulfur are high, then consider that excess iron may be
an issue. Levels of iron are increased with humic acid, which is in part why humic acid
is not a part of this program. Humic acid may cause lipid peroxidation. High iron levels
may be related to high methionine, so if your methionine is high on a UAA test, check
your iron levels. Lactoferrin and/or AHCY/SHMT compound may help bind and
transport iron to where it is needed in your body. Also, if your iron is high, work to
shift acidic environments to alkaline environments, because acid increases iron. So,
consider Buffer pH, VitaOrgan, and/or Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend. Either
sodium bicarbonate or Potassium Bicarbonate can be used to help balance pH
depending on your need for sodium or potassium. Check pH on a CSA test, GI function
test, or by testing urine with pH strips. Also, consider VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support
capsules, because iron can cause blood sugar issues when it replaces zinc.If you need
iron support, then complexed herbal forms may cause less excess iron in your system.
Dandelion greens are an excellent source of iron that also may be supportive for your
kidneys.
Germanium aids in oxygen utilization and helps support your immune system. If your
Germanium germanium levels are low, consider T cell and B cell support capsules for immune
support.
Low levels of rubidium are a sign of low potassium. Low rubidium can cause
aggression. Consider potassium support if your rubidium is low. Potassium Citrate can
be used, along with food sources of potassium. If your pH is low on a CSA test or GI
Rubidium function test, then use Potassium Bicarbonate to both support potassium and help
balance pH. If Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test, and you do not have
problems with glutamate GABA imbalances, then consider Potassium Krebs
Intermediates.
High levels of zirconium may cause lung irritation, so consider low dose Respiratory
Support nucleotide blend. Low zirconium may suggest a need for more liver support.
Zirconium
Consider Liver Support nucleotide blend. The liver may be a source of zirconium, so
consider Ora-Liv and MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules.
CHAPTER 2
URINE TOXIC METAL AND ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS TEST
Purpose of running this test:
Looking at the Hair Elements Analysis (HMT) to determine the toxic and essential element
content of your body is something like looking at the rings on a cross section of a tree. It gives
you a longer term, more historical view of the toxic and essential metals in your body. The urine
test, on the other hand, gives you a measurement of what is being excreted on the day the test
was taken, the level of excretion for that day. It is useful to run the Urine Toxic Metals and Urine
Essential Elements Test (UTM/UEE) at the same time as a HMT, at least initially, to get a
baseline level of metals from both the immediate as well as the historic vantage point.
When detox is suspected because of behavioral changes or other issues in a child, or symptoms
characteristic of detox in an adult, it is useful to have immediate feedback from a UTM/UEE or
Fecal Metals Test (FMT), rather than waiting until the toxins causing the disturbance become
evident in a hair sample. Environmental toxins are a risk factor in multi-factorial conditions,
including the many adult and pediatric chronic illnesses evident at present. Urine toxic metal
excretion data is also useful because the environmental toxic load in your body impacts your
capacity to produce methyl groups and methylate appropriately. Impaired capacity to methylate
affects multiple systems’ function, not the least of which are your immune and nervous systems.
Additionally, methyl groups are important epigenetic regulators of genetic function, so impaired
methylation has a global impact. See the Feel Good Nutrigenomics book for a more
comprehensive discussion of epigenetics.
This urine test is particularly useful for looking at cobalt levels as a measure of B12 status
secondary to methylation cycle support. Lithium is reported to impact B12 transport into the cell.
Comparing data on lithium levels in urine as opposed to hair helps to determine how your body
is handling this important trace element, and in so doing helps you to support the methylation
cycle optimally.
The current financial climate has impacted the testing I ask for, however, I really like to see an
initial UTM/UEE along with a HMT to get a baseline sense of toxic and essential minerals.
Then, over time, the UTM/UEE can be rotated with a FMT and a HMT, so that one test is run
every two or three months. In this way, over the course of a year, two of each of these tests is
run. This gives me a sense of what is being excreted via all three routes, as well as a measure of
essential elements.
If a certain essential element is particularly low, for example cobalt, or its excretion is
particularly high, for example lithium, then running a HMT along with a UTM/UEE more often
is worth considering, at least until you are certain that these critical minerals are in balance.
This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for
TOXIC
your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as
METALS
always.
Aluminum Aluminum can impact the Krebs energy cycle, so consider a Metabolic Analysis Profile
(MAP test) if high levels are seen on a HMT. Also, aluminum can negatively impact
tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels, which in turn affects dopamine, serotonin and
melatonin levels. A Neopterin / Biopterin Profile Urine Test can be run to help
evaluate BH4 levels. Consider adding MetalAway, or selenium, horsetail grass, low
dose EDTA, and malic acid. Also, you can use additional EDTA and EDTA soap or soak
as tolerated. If you do not have shellfish allergies, consider using BactiSolve. Use
MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules and/or BH4 to help support BH4 levels.
Consider Vitamin E succinate if succinate levels are low on the MAP test. You can also
run a UAA test to look at phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan levels as another
means to determine the need to consider BH4 support.
Antimony can bind to ‘thiol’, which means SH groups, which are needed to help escort
mercury from your system. Also, antimony may inhibit the MAO enzymes, which may
interfere with the natural breakdown of dopamine and serotonin. Antimony can
accumulate in your adrenals and thus play a role in fatigue. Consider adding sources
Antimony
of ‘thiol’ groups, such as Selenium, MetalAway, or DetoxAway. Consider low dose
Wasabi, low dose Selenocysteine, and/or low dose Ion Transport compound, which
has both Wasabi and Selenocysteine. Broccoli and Garlic are also options. Also,
consider OraAdrenal for adrenal support.
Barium can displace potassium, and may cause an increase in stress hormones. It may
also cause tingling and weakness of muscles. Consider potassium support with
Potassium Citrate. If Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test, then consider Krebs
Barium Magnesium-Potassium Chelates. If gut pH is very low then consider Potassium
Bicarbonate. Also, Stress Foundation nucleotide blend and low dose Muscle Support
nucleotide blend may be a help. In addition, Padma Basic may help with weak muscles
and ginkgo along with Padma Basic if restless leg syndrome if they are issues.
High levels of beryllium may affect lymphocyte proliferation and respiratory function,
as well as cause adrenal insufficiency and fatigue. Consider T cell and B cell support
Beryllium capsules for immune support. OraAdrenal may also be used for additional support.
The Muscle Fatigue Support compound supplement can be considered if fatigue is an
issue. Low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend may also be helpful.
High level excretion of bismuth, in the absence of any bismuth supplementation, may
be an indicator for H. pylori, so testing to rule out H. pylori should be considered.
Bismuth Since high level bismuth excretion in the absence of any support can lead to depletion
of bismuth over time, consider low level bismuth support with Peptimycin or its
equivalent. Rule out H. pylori.
High levels of cadmium can cause significant symptoms. Your body uses zinc as a
cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. However, if zinc is deficient, your body will
replace it with cadmium. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic table, so it fits
perfectly into zinc binding sites. Enzymes that make protein, such as RNA transferase,
and alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme involved in alcohol processing, are impacted
by this problem. Other important enzymes are also negatively impacted. Cadmium
may also bind to glutathione (GSH) making it ineffective. It may also negatively impact
bone health and cause respiratory symptoms. Consider supporting with Zinc
Lozenges, or Krebs Zinc, if your Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test. Also,
consider MetalAway and/or EDTA to help escort cadmium from your system. Since
Cadmium cadmium can bind GSH, consider supporting with GSH. Low dose Bone Support
nucleotide blend may also be helpful. Cadmium may decrease the Cytochrome P450
enzyme system, so consider Indole-3-carbinol to support CYP 450. Since cadmium
replaces zinc in arteries, adults may want to consider low dose Heart Support
nucleotide blend and Hawthorn Extract. Also, consider Vitamin E and low dose Ion
Transport support capsules for cadmium, as it may help prevent the cadmium induced
suppression of the CFTR enzyme. Also, work on supporting methylation, as weak
methylation capacity is related to susceptibility to cadmium. In addition, lithium,
which is in both BeCalm Spray and All in One, may help to protect against the negative
impacts of cadmium, especially with respect to hormones such as testosterone, LH,
and FSH.
Cesium inhibits potassium currents, so it can cause fatigue and palpitations, as well as
muscle weakness. Use a form of potassium support that compliments your other
biochemistry, ie, Potassium Citrate, Krebs Magnesium-Potassium Chelates, or
Cesium Potassium Bicarbonate can be considered depending on other test values, such as a
MAP test for Krebs minerals or pH levels in the gut may indicate Potassium
Bicarbonate. Consider low dose Muscle Support nucleotide blend, and, if needed,
Muscle Fatigue Support compound supplement.
Gadolinium Gadolinium is a contrast dye used for MRIs. High levels in your system may cause
kidney problems, skin rashes, and joint and muscle weakness. While gadolinium does
not always cause these problems, if high levels of this mineral are excreted, consider
support for your organ systems. Consider T cell and B cell support capsules for
immune support. In addition, MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules, Gymnema, Ora-
Kidney, Ora-Liv, Kidney Support nucleotide blend, Liver Support nucleotide blend, and
Indole-3-carbinol can all be considered to support other organ systems.
Lead can deposit in bone and replace calcium there. Lead can also affect ATPase,
which reduces the production of this energy molecule. This negatively impacts both
sodium and potassium levels, as well as energy production. Lead can bind melatonin,
tryptophan, and serotonin. Consider a MAP test and a Neurotransmitter Urine Test to
look at energy markers, as well as neurotransmitter levels. Lead excretion can cause
pica, teeth/jaw grinding & aggression. Eating inedible objects may be a sign that lead
is being excreted. You may want to consider support to help escort it from your
system. Elevated 5-amino levulinic acid (ALA) due to lead toxicity can inhibit Gamma
Lead amino butyric acid (GABA), so consider extra GABA if needed. Since lead replaces
calcium in bones, consider low dose Bone Support nucleotide blend. Vitamin D and K
impact calcium absorption, so consider a mineral combination that includes vitamin D
and K, such as Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK. Also, for bone health, watch strontium and boron
levels. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to support strontium and boron. Also,
consider EDTA and MetalAway (or selenium + horsetail grass + low dose EDTA + malic
acid) to help escort lead from your system. Also, consider additional EDTA in EDTA
soap or soak as tolerated. Consider using BactiSolve if you have no shellfish allergies,
as another source of EDTA. Consider ATP and/or MitoForce to support ATPase.
Nickel Nickel can cause significant skin rashes, allergies, dermatitis and inflammation.
Consider Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, especially when phosphorus is low and nickel
toxicity is present. Consider nucleotide blends such as General Support nucleotide
blend and Cytokine Balance nucleotide blend to help with itching. Clear Skin spray
may be used for topical skin support.
Palladium may impact your liver and kidneys. It can cause free radical damage to
DNA, and allergic reactions, especially for those with nickel allergies. Consider Kidney
Support nucleotide blend, Liver Support nucleotide blend, Ora-Kidney, Ora-Liv and/or
Palladium
MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules. Consider Riboflavin-5-Phosphate to help with
nickel, Quercetin in low doses if COMT status is not an issue, and General Support
nucleotide blend. You can also consider an Oxidative Damage test to assess damage.
Platinum can cause wheezing, excessive mucous in your nose, and dermatitis.
Consider Zinc Lozenges and low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend. Also,
Platinum
Serraflazyme and Air Power may help with mucous, along with Muscle Fatigue
Support compound.
Thallium inhibits mitochondrial energy and ATP. It also inhibits DNA and RNA
synthesis. It may cause hair loss and anorexia. Thallium can also cause riboflavin to be
sequestered in the body. So Riboflavin-5-Phosphate support should be considered,
Thallium especially if MAP test results show imbalances in the Krebs energy cycle. Consider
support with ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to address the impact on
energy. Also, All in One for low dose DNA and RNA support, and AHCY/SHMT
compound, or direct addition of nucleotides.
Thorium can bind to digestive enzymes. Consider Special Digestive Enzymes, and run
Thorium
the CSA test and GI function test to check on digestion.
Tin may cause liver pain, and may be more of an issue if your system tends to be
acidic. Check your pH on a CSA test or GI Effects test, and/or use pH strips on first
morning urine samples. Work to get pH to around 7 with Buffer pH, VitaOrgan, and/or
Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend. If your potassium is low, then consider
Tin
Potassium Bicarbonate. Also, consider Indole-3-carbinol to support cytochrome P450
enzymes that may be decreased due to tin and consider Special Digestive
Enzymes. MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules, and low dose Liver Support
nucleotide blend can be considered for liver support.
Tungsten Tungsten interferes with molybdenum, may cause DNA damage, and may be a factor
in impaired sense of smell. Tungsten can interfere with SUOX, so consider B12,
provided that lithium is in balance. Also, watch levels of molybdenum, boron, and
manganese. Provided that lithium is in balance, consider support with B12 formulas
like Hydroxy B12 spray, Methyl B12 MegaDrops, Hydroxy B12 MegaDrops, or
Adenosyl B12 MegaDrops. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to help support
molybdenum, boron and manganese. Consider a DNA oxidation test, and if DNA
damage/oxidation is a concern, then consider Ultifend and/or Quercetin. High dose
quercetin may be an issue for those who are COMT ++.
Uranium can readily combine with nucleotides in your body and can deposit in your
bones. It can also cause chronic fatigue. Test your home water supply with a Water
Elements Test, and do a radon air test if you continue to excrete high levels of
uranium over time. Consider All in One for low dose nucleotide support. Use
Uranium AHCY/SHMT compound for nucleotide support, or direct nucleotide supplementation.
Consider using Muscle Fatigue Support compound and low dose Bone Support
nucleotide blend. Consider Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK so that vitamin D and K are present to
help with calcium absorption. To support your DNA in the presence of high levels of
uranium, also consider Ultifend and Quercetin.
A high level of creatinine means that your urine is very concentrated. This may
indicate that your kidneys are under stress. For this issue, consider Kidney Support
nucleotide blend, Ora-Kidney, Dandelion Leaf, Rhodiola, SHMT Spray, AHCY/SHMT
compound, and Zinc Lozenges. If your pH is low, consider using sodium bicarbonate to
both help with pH as well as to help with high creatinine. If your creatinine is
chronically high, also check your blood sugar levels. Creatinine levels that are low
Creatinine
suggest insufficient methylation and a need for SAM-e. Low levels of creatine have
been associated with limited language development. You can consider using Creatine
plus SAM-e. Basic methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine
Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is
shown to be in balance on a HMT, then consider low dose Methylmate A and
Methylmate B, along with extra B12.
This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for
ESSENTIAL
your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as
ELEMENTS
always.
Sodium Your goal is to keep sodium in the normal range, without its being too low or excreted
to a high degree. The use of Ion Transport compound and low dose Ion Transport
Support nucleotide blend may be a help. Sodium is co-absorbed with a range of other
nutrients, such as amino acids, glucose and peptides, so supporting healthy ion
transport can be useful. Since sodium and potassium transport across your cell
membrane uses energy, consider ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to
support sodium/potassium ATPase. Also, consider using low dose Ion Transport
compound and low dose Ion Transport Support nucleotide blend. In addition, the use
of Sodium or Potassium Bicarbonate may be considered if your pH is low on a CSA test
or GI Effects test, as a way to support both sodium and a more balanced pH.
Potassium levels drop coordinately with low lithium, so support potassium when you
are taking lithium. Low potassium can cause rubidium levels to drop. Your body
replaces potassium with rubidium when potassium is deficient. This can create a
rubidium deficit, which is a factor in aggressive behavior. The approach this program
uses is to consider support with potassium for either low potassium or low rubidium.
Potassium levels that are less than 50ppm or 5%, may indicate copper toxicity. Barium
and cesium may displace or interfere with potassium function. Additional potassium
support may be needed if you have high levels of barium or cesium excretion.Also,
low levels of potassium may be caused by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) triggering efflux of
potassium, so check sulfur levels on the HMT and UEE, as well as taurine levels on a
UAA. High levels of taurine on a UAA may indicate higher than ideal H2S levels in your
system, which can then cause low potassium levels.Low levels of potassium can be a
factor in the production of acne.
Potassium
Potassium Citrate can be used along with food sources of potassium to support
potassium. If your pH is low on a CSA test or GI Effects test, then Potassium
Bicarbonate can be considered to both support potassium and to help balance
pH. If Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test, consider Potassium Krebs
Intermediates if you do not have glutamate/ GABA imbalance.
Arginine may have a positive impact on potassium levels. Those who struggle
with consistently low potassium, especially athletes, may consider low dose
Arginine support if your levels of arginine are low on a UAA test. AminoAssist
is one source of low dose arginine.
Phosphorus If your phosphate is low, then your leucine may be high. According to published
literature, if phosphate is low, then leucine may be increased, which in turn may
increase glutamate and alpha KG. This can potentially cause hypoglycemia. Your level
of leucine can be checked on a UAA. Consider phosphate support when phosphate is
low, when hypoglycemia is an issue, when glutamate and leucine are high on a UAA
test, or when alpha ketoglutarate is either very high or very low on a MAP test. Cross
referencing between these tests is helpful when problem solving. Supplementing
phosphorus may help with excessive dumping of calcium in your urine. Copper
toxicity may be a factor when phosphorus is low. Check your copper levels.Riboflavin-
5-Phosphate can help support phosphorus, especially if nickel toxicity is present. Also
ATP and/or MitoForce may help to support phosphorus. Phospholipids such as
Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC) and nucleic acids such as RNA can also
support phosphorus. Vitamin D may help with phosphorus absorption. Pumpkin seeds
are a natural source of phosphorus.
Ideally, your test will show more magnesium relative to calcium. Excess calcium can
work with glutamate to cause excitotoxicity, so high levels of calcium may cause
symptoms if glutamate is also high. Your goal for calcium is to be in the low range of
normal, with magnesium in the high range of normal. Since vitamin D and K help with
calcium absorption, less calcium support may be needed if vitamin D and K are
supplemented. Check to see if boron is being dumped, as boron is often dumped with
low vitamin D. So, high level calcium and boron dumping may indicate a need for
Vitamin D. If calcium is higher than 650ppm or 65%, it may indicate copper toxicity.
There may be a greater need for calcium support with a high protein diet.Guaifenisen,
which is used for chronic fatigue, may help pull down high calcium. Low dose support
can be considered in the Muscle Fatigue Support compound, or in Air Power. Other
Calcium supplements used to help control high calcium include Vinpocetine, Boswellia, ATP
and/or MitoForce. These may support better calcium balance because they support
mitochondrial function, and mitochondria may act as sinks to buffer the effects of
calcium overload.
If calcium levels are too low, consider herbs that support calcium in a
complexed form, such as Nettle, Chamomile, or Chervil. The use of
Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK compound also supports calcium in a balanced fashion.
Low calcium can play a role in back pain, menstrual cramps, and brittle nails.
As with magnesium, zinc helps to control the calcium and glutamate interaction that
can lead to over excitation of nerves. Doses of zinc above 40 mg per day can actually
stimulate excitotoxin activity, so your goal is to keep zinc in the high range of normal
with under 40 mg of supplementation per day. A deficiency of zinc may cause poor
wound healing, poor ability to smell or taste, and night blindness. Iron interferes with
zinc absorption, so keeping iron in proper balance is an important factor in achieving
proper zinc levels. When iron replaces zinc, it may cause blood sugar imbalances, so
consider support for the pancreas and pancreatic enzymes when zinc is low. Your
body uses zinc as a cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. It prefers it. However, if zinc
is deficient, your body will replace it with cadmium or lead, both of which are toxic
metals. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic table of the elements, so it fits
perfectly into zinc binding sites. Cadmium may replace zinc in enzymes that make
important proteins, such as RNA transferase and alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme
involved in alcohol processing. These enzymes do not function properly with cadmium
replacing zinc. Cadmium may also replace zinc in metallothionein, an important heavy
metal binding agent. When zinc is low, lead can replace zinc in heme enzymes and
impact the formation of red blood cells. So it is important to keep zinc in the high
normal range.Some studies suggest that low zinc may increase the activity of the
Zinc enzyme methionine synthase (MTR). This could in turn lead to lower lithium levels
and exacerbate MTR + status. Low dose methionine support, which is contained in
AminoAssist, may be helpful in these cases.
Zinc Lozenges are the form of zinc that is particularly helpful and well
absorbed. Consider Zinc Krebs Intermediates if your levels of Krebs
intermediates are low on a MAP test, and you do not have symptoms of
glutamate/ GABA imbalances.
When your zinc is low, consider Heart Support nucleotide blend and Hawthorn
Extract if you are an adult. Cadmium can replace zinc in the atrial wall of your
heart and may cause decreased flexibility and strength.
Coffee may impair zinc uptake and may lead to a need for increased zinc
support.
Copper Ideally, your copper levels should be lower than zinc to favor a higher zinc to copper
ratio. High copper has been implicated in ADD. Copper is the cofactor that works with
the enzymes MAO A and MAO B to break down dopamine and serotonin, so high
copper may engender a higher degree of degradation of these two neurotransmitters.
Running a Neurotransmitter Urine Test and a MAP test gives you an indication of both
the levels of serotonin and dopamine, and a measure of their breakdown. Excess
copper has also been reported to cause fearful thoughts. If copper replaces zinc in
your brain, it may be a factor in migraines, so zinc support may help you with this, as
well as bring your copper into better balance.Much less frequently, the issue is
actually low copper. Low copper may cause high histamine. The enzyme that breaks
down histamine is a copper containing MAO type of enzyme, so if your copper is low,
check to see if your histamine is high. Quercetin may help pull down histamine but
inhibits COMT, so use quercetin in moderation. A natural source of quercetin is
cherries. Cherries are also a source of melatonin. Tart Cherry Extract is reported to be
helpful for gout.
Ways to help bring copper into better balance include the use of Molybdenum,
Zinc, Carnosine, and increased EDTA. EDTA is found in MetalAway, EDTA
soap or soak, and DetoxAway. You can also consider BactiSolve if you have
NO shellfish allergies.
Manganese Manganese is important for helping to process arginine, so consider supporting with
low dose Manganese if arginine is high on a UAA test. However, high levels of
manganese are a concern for the reasons described below. Ideally, your manganese
levels are in the lower range of normal so that they are sufficient to support reactions
that require manganese without allowing levels to climb too high. Proper manganese
levels are important to preserve acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. Low
manganese can also impair the function of your Krebs energy cycle. Low levels of
manganese can cause hearing loss and low sex drive. Low manganese can cause low
cholesterol, imbalances in alkaline phosphatase levels, and decreased T cells.Most
bacteria use iron for growth, but Borrelia burgdorferi uses manganese, so low
manganese may be seen in Lyme disease. Manganese levels may also drop with H.
pylori infection. Consider ruling out H. pylori or Lyme disease if you have chronically
low levels of manganese.
Iron can compete with manganese for uptake, so be sure iron is in balance.
Toxic doses of manganese can impact both GABA and taurine levels and affect
their transport. If an individual is intolerant to GABA supplementation in spite
of symptoms that suggest a need for GABA, then check manganese levels to be
sure they are not exceedingly high. The use of valerian root in conjunction with
low dose GABA may be a consideration for you and your doctor, as valerian
may aid in GABA transport. If high manganese is the issue, consider increased
EDTA support. Working with, and deferring to your own doctor consider the
use of MetalAway, DetoxAway, EDTA soap and soak, and additional EDTA
capsules can be considered.
If very high levels are seen, rule out high manganese in your home water supply
by using the Water Elements Test. Some defective water filtration systems may
be a source of higher than ideal levels of manganese in your drinking and
bathing water supply.
Molybdenum is critical for sulfite oxidase function, the enzyme that processes sulfite
to sulfate. Those who are sulfur sensitive should keep a close eye on molybdenum
levels. Sulfite oxidase follows CBS in the methylation cycle, so excess CBS activity can
put more pressure on sulfite oxidase and generate the need for molybdenum.
Molybdenum is also needed to help keep copper in balance. High copper has a
number of non-ideal effects, including allowing the increased breakdown of dopamine
and serotonin. Molybdenum is also needed for xanthine oxidase function. Significant
Molybdenum xanthine oxidase may be present in homogenized milk, so those drinking milk may
have a need for molybdenum support. Those who have high levels of tungsten may
need molybdenum support, as tungsten competes with molybdenum. In addition,
those who are MTR + often show lower levels of molybdenum, so more frequent HMT
and UEE can be run to be sure molybdenum stays in balance. Molybdenum can be
supported with Molybdenum Capsules, MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules, Black Bear Spray
or Black Bear Drink. Molybdenum Drops can also be used, although the liquid form is
complexed with ammonia so this is not the preferred form of support.
Low vitamin D levels may relate to low boron levels, so additional support may be
needed in areas of low sunlight during the winter. Also those who are MTR + may
tend to have lower boron levels. When boron is low, this deficiency may cause
Boron
dumping of calcium and magnesium in urine. So check boron levels when there is high
level excretion of magnesium and calcium in urine. Consider support with either Bone
Support capsules or MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to help balance boron levels.
Low levels of chromium can be factors in ADD and anxiety. Also low levels of
Chromium chromium may be associated with blood sugar imbalances. Consider Chromium
Picolinate support and VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules.
Lithium The role of lithium in B12 transport into the cell is potentially critically
important. Peer reviewed work by Tisman, Herbert, and Rosenblatt published in
the British Journal of Haematology was the first to illustrate that ingestion of
lithium is related to B12 binding. Continuing this research, Vanyo and
coworkers (Lithium in Biology and Medicine) discuss the finding that lack of
lithium and B12 deficiency share physiological features, and that support with
lithium enhances B12 transport into cells. According to these researchers,
lithium is associated with elevated levels of serum B12 binding capacity.
Furthermore, this group was able to show that lithium increases the transport of
folate into the cell, as well as that of B12.
Based on this research, it is important to look at lithium levels. I use the HMT
and the UTMEE in combination with each other to assess both lithium as well
as cobalt levels (as a measure of B12). You may also want to look at serum
lithium and B12. In cases in which lithium is low and/or serum B12 is
particularly high, use lithium support prior to the addition of high dose B12.
Lithium support is in All in One, Be Calm Spray, and Lithium Orotate.
Use these with the consent of your doctor. The rationale behind this is to ensure
that you have adequate lithium prior to adding high dose B12, because
increasing B12 in the absence of lithium support may further deplete lithium
levels due to the use of lithium to aid in the transport of the added B12. Ideally,
lithium should be in balance prior to adding excess B12 so as not to create
lithium depletion. Low dose maintenance nutritional levels of lithium support
are available in All in One and Be Calm Spray.
Lithium plays a range of additional roles in your body aside from B12 and
folate transport into your cells, so it is important not to deplete this pivotal trace
mineral. Lithium’s impact on mood stabilization has been known and used
clinically for many years, despite the fact that the mechanism by which this
occurs has not been fully elaborated. Norepinephrine imbalances have been
implicated in attention disorders, and Sastre and coworkers have illustrated an
impact of lithium on balancing norepinephrine levels.
Lithium stimulates white cells and platelets, so low levels of lithium may cause
low white cells. Myrrh may help for low white cells.
For general lithium support, consider All in One and Be Calm Spray. Always
support potassium when supplementing lithium.
For levels that are particularly low, consider Lithium Orotate plus some form of
potassium, usually Potassium Citrate. Run regular HMT to assess lithium levels
when adding lithium orotate. Those who are MTR + should do a HMT every 3
to 4 months.
Low lithium may also be an issue secondary to a need for mitochondrial energy
support. A MAP test can be run to look at energy markers. Support for
mitochondrial energy can include MitoForce, ATP, Riboflavin-5-
Phosphate, NADH, Krebs minerals.
Selenium Selenium may become depleted with high level mercury excretion, as well as with the
excretion of a number of other toxic metals. Consider extra selenium support when
toxic metal excretion is observed. If selenium levels are low on a HMT, use additional
support. Selenium is essential for the conversion of T4 to T3, T3 being the active form
of thyroid hormone. The de-iodinase enzymes that remove iodine atoms from T4
during its conversion to T3 are selenium-dependent. So, consider selenium when you
have low thyroid symptoms. PABA, found in Ultimate B, and Niacinamide can be
considered for those who have indications of autoimmune thyroid issues. Very high
levels of selenium are toxic, so the goal is to be within normal range for this mineral.
Methylation cycle function is needed to remove excess selenium, so until methylation
support is in place, and you know you have good methylation pathway function, do
not use high dose selenium. Consider support with MetalAway or other sources of
Selenium. Consider low dose Ion Transport compound as a source of selenocystene,
or low dose Selenocysteine. GSH and Vitamin E succinate may aid in maintaining
selenium levels. Excretion of mercury, antimony, arsenic, and/or thorium may lead to
a greater need for selenium support. DetoxAway can be considered for higher dose
support during detox once effective methylation support is in place. As always, work
with your doctor.Basic methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine
Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is
shown to be in balance on a HMT, then add low dose Methylmate A, Methylmate B,
and extra B12 in the appropriate form.
Strontium levels tend to be lower for those who are MTR +. Consider
Strontium MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules if your strontium is low, or being excreted excessively in
the face of no supplementation.
High levels of vanadium may be related to bipolar. Low levels may be an issue for
blood sugar balance. Vanadium can bind to iron complexes, so be sure iron is in
Vanadium balance. Consider vanadyl sulfate (depending on sulfur levels) and VDR/FOK
Pancreatic Support capsules for low vanadium. Also, you can use AHCY/SHMT
compound or Lactoferrin to help with iron balance.
All forms of B12, hydroxyl, adenosyl, methyl, and cyano, contain the element cobalt. It
is possible to follow cobalt levels on a HMT and UEE as a method for tracking B12
ingestion. Blood B12 levels can also be directly measured. Be sure lithium is in balance
before adding high dose B12. As you increase B12 support, follow with HMT testing to
be sure lithium stays in balance. There are several forms of B12. Hydroxy B12 is
Cobalt
usually well tolerated and is used by everyone on this protocol. Adenosyl B12 is also
usually well tolerated. It is often a help for high methylmalonic acid (MMA) levels on a
MAP test, as well as to help process fats when used in conjunction with Biotin.
MethylB12 may be tolerated by those who are COMT – and some who are COMT + -.
It is used in limited ways in my protocol.
Iron Excess iron is pro-oxidant and drives bacterial virulence, so high iron on this test may
indicate issues with bacterial imbalances. If your iron is above the 50th percentile,
consider a CSA test and GI function test to check for unbalanced, non-optimal
organisms in your gut. Adult females may want to run a Vaginosis Test in addition, to
check for bacteria and yeast. Iron helps to increase SHMT activity, which diverts
methylation intermediates from both the MTR/MTRR enzyme reaction, what I call the
long route around the methylation pathway, and the BHMT enzyme reaction, the
short cut. Limiting iron is particularly important for those who are SHMT +. Iron can
bind tryptophan, so it may reduce serotonin levels.H2S frees up iron, so check taurine
and sulfur levels. If taurine and sulfur are high, then consider that excess iron may be
an issue.
Levels of iron are increased with humic acid, which is in part why humic acid is
not a part of this program. Humic acid may cause lipid peroxidation.
Lactoferrin and/or AHCY/SHMT compound may help bind and transport iron
to where it is needed in your body. Also, if your iron is high, work to shift
acidic environments to alkaline environments, because acid increases iron. So,
consider Buffer pH, VitaOrgan, and/or Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide
blend. Either sodium bicarbonate or Potassium Bicarbonate can be used to help
balance pH depending on your need for sodium or potassium. Check pH on a
CSA test, GI function test, or by testing urine with pH strips.
Also, consider VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules, because iron can cause
blood sugar issues when it replaces zinc.
If you need iron support, then complexed herbal forms may cause less excess
iron in your system. Dandelion greens are an excellent source of iron that also
may be supportive for your kidneys.
CHAPTER 3
FECAL TOXIC METAL TEST
A number of individuals tend to excrete toxins more readily through their stool rather than in
urine or via hair. Particularly when there are imbalances in gut microbes and you are working to
address the gut, you may see more excretion of toxins in the stool than in urine.
Unfortunately, the Fecal Toxic Metals Test (FMT) does not include aluminum. Since aluminum
retention may be an issue with non-ideal gut microbes, if this is a concern, you should also run
either a UTM/UEE or a HMT to follow aluminum excretion. Aluminum can negatively impact
BH4 levels, so it is important to know what is happening with aluminum in your system to
determine proper support for BH4 levels.
This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for
TOXIC
your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as
METALS
always.
Antimony can bind to ‘thiol’, which means SH groups, which are needed to help escort
mercury from your system. Also, antimony may inhibit the MAO enzymes, which may
interfere with the natural breakdown of dopamine and serotonin. Antimony can
accumulate in your adrenals and thus play a role in fatigue. Consider adding sources
Antimony
of ‘thiol’ groups, such as Selenium, MetalAway, or DetoxAway. Consider low dose
Wasabi, low dose Selenocysteine, and/or low dose Ion Transport compound, which
has both Wasabi and Selenocysteine. Broccoli and Garlic are also options. Also,
consider OraAdrenal for adrenal support.
High level excretion of bismuth, in the absence of any bismuth supplementation, may
be an indicator for H. pylori, so testing to rule out H. pylori should be considered.
Bismuth Since high level bismuth excretion in the absence of any support can lead to depletion
of bismuth over time, consider low level bismuth support with Peptimycin or its
equivalent. Rule out H. pylori.
High levels of cadmium can cause significant symptoms. Your body uses zinc as a
cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. However, if zinc is deficient, your body will
replace it with cadmium. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic table, so it fits
perfectly into zinc binding sites. Enzymes that make protein, such as RNA transferase,
and alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme involved in alcohol processing, are impacted
by this problem. Other important enzymes are also negatively impacted. Cadmium
may also bind to glutathione (GSH) making it ineffective. It may also negatively impact
bone health and cause respiratory symptoms. Consider supporting with Zinc
Lozenges, or Krebs Zinc, if your Krebs intermediates are low on a MAP test. Also,
consider MetalAway and/or EDTA to help escort cadmium from your system. Since
Cadmium cadmium can bind GSH, consider supporting with GSH. Low dose Bone Support
nucleotide blend may also be helpful. Cadmium may decrease the Cytochrome P450
enzyme system, so consider Indole-3-carbinol to support CYP 450. Since cadmium
replaces zinc in arteries, adults may want to consider low dose Heart Support
nucleotide blend and Hawthorn Extract. Also, consider Vitamin E and low dose Ion
Transport support capsules for cadmium, as it may help to prevent the cadmium
induced suppression of the CFTR enzyme. Also, work on supporting methylation, as
weak methylation capacity is related to susceptibility to cadmium.In addition, lithium,
which is in both BeCalm Spray and All in One, may help to protect against the negative
impacts of cadmium, especially with respect to hormones such as testosterone, LH,
and FSH.
Copper Ideally, your copper levels should be lower than zinc to favor a higher zinc to copper
ratio. High copper has been implicated in ADD. Copper is the cofactor that works with
the enzymes MAO A and MAO B to break down dopamine and serotonin, so high
copper may engender a higher degree of degradation of these two neurotransmitters.
Running a Neurotransmitter Urine Test and a MAP test gives you an indication of both
the levels of serotonin and dopamine, and a measure of their breakdown. Excess
copper has also been reported to cause fearful thoughts. If copper replaces zinc in
your brain, it may be a factor in migraines, so zinc support may help you with this, as
well as bring your copper into better balance.
Much less frequently, the issue is actually low copper. Low copper may cause
high histamine. The enzyme that breaks down histamine is a copper containing
MAO type of enzyme, so if your copper is low, check to see if your histamine is
high. Quercetin may help pull down histamine but inhibits COMT, so use
quercetin in moderation. A natural source of quercetin is cherries. Cherries are
also a source of melatonin. Tart Cherry Extract is reported to be helpful for
gout.
Ways to help bring copper into better balance include the use of Molybdenum,
Zinc, Carnosine, and increased EDTA. EDTA is found in MetalAway, EDTA
soap or soak, and DetoxAway. You can also use BactiSolve if you have NO
shellfish allergies.
Nickel can cause significant skin rashes, allergies, dermatitis and inflammation.
Consider support with Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, especially when phosphorus is low and
Nickel nickel toxicity is present. Consider nucleotide blends such as General Support
nucleotide blend and Cytokine Balance nucleotide blend to help with itching. Clear
Skin spray may be used for topical skin support.
Platinum can cause wheezing, excessive mucous in your nose, and dermatitis.
Platinum Consider Zinc Lozenges and low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend. Also,
Serraflazyme and Air Power may help with mucous.
Thallium inhibits mitochondrial energy and ATP. It also inhibits DNA and RNA
synthesis. It may cause hair loss and anorexia. Thallium can also cause riboflavin to be
sequestered in the body. So Riboflavin-5-Phosphate support should be considered,
Thallium especially if MAP test results show imbalances in the Krebs energy cycle. Consider
support with ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to address the impact on
energy. Also, All in One for low dose DNA and RNA support, and AHCY/SHMT
compound, or direct addition of nucleotides.
Tungsten interferes with molybdenum, may cause DNA damage, and may be a factor
in impaired sense of smell. Tungsten can interfere with SUOX, so consider B12,
provided that lithium is in balance. Also, watch levels of molybdenum, boron, and
manganese. Provided that lithium is in balance, support with B12 formulas like
Tungsten Hydroxy B12 spray, Methyl B12 MegaDrops, Hydroxy B12 MegaDrops, or Adenosyl
B12 MegaDrops. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to help support molybdenum,
boron and manganese. Consider a DNA oxidation test, and if DNA damage/oxidation
is a concern, then consider Ultifend and/or Quercetin. Keep in mind that high dose
quercetin may be an issue for those who are COMT ++.
Uranium can readily combine with nucleotides in your body and can deposit in the
bones. Also, it can cause chronic fatigue. Consider testing your home water supply
using a Water Elements Test, and do a radon air test if you continue to excrete high
levels of uranium over time. Consider All in One for low dose nucleotide support. Use
Uranium
AHCY/SHMT compound for nucleotide support, or direct nucleotide supplementation.
Consider using Muscle Fatigue Support compound and low dose Bone Support
nucleotide blend. Use Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK so that vitamin D and K are present to help
with calcium absorption.
CHAPTER 4
The Metabolic Analysis Profile (MAP test) gives information about intermediates in a number of
biochemical pathways in your body. Important methylation cycle markers such as FIGLU, a
marker for folate, and methylmalonic acid, a marker for B12, are included in this test.
Additionally, the MAP test gives information about the turnover and/or breakdown products of
several neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine. These are useful in conjunction
with neurotransmitter testing to determine the causes of problems such as mood instability,
depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or the need for nutritional neurotransmitter
support.
The MAP test also generates data about critical energy intermediates and your mitochondrial
function. Mitochondrial disorder is being recognized as a factor in the declining health of
increasing numbers of both adults and children. MAP testing is useful for assessing the level of
mitochondrial energy intermediates including intermediates in the mitochondrial Krebs cycle.
Oxalate is part of the Krebs energy cycle along with other compounds such as malate and
fumarate.
In conjunction with a CSA and GI test, the MAP test can reveal problems with the breakdown of
fats in your body and show intermediates that indicate ketosis. In addition, these three tests
contain information about bacterial or yeast infestations or infections.
In general, the MAP test helps you determine areas you need to focus on for additional testing
and/or treatment. As noted in the ‘related tests’ section below, high values for specific
intermediates on this test help you target which additional tests and/or supplementation may be
needed.
Arabinose & Citramalic Arabinose and citramalic acid are general indicators of excess yeast in your
Acid system. In order to determine if this is due to normal flora (Saccharomyces)
or imbalanced flora, consider a CSA test and GI Effects test. If behavior or
clinical presentation suggests that yeast or fungus are the issue, then consider
support to address these issues. For adult females, the in-home
Comprehensive Vaginosis Profile can also be run. To help address yeast
imbalances, you can consider Candisol alternating with Lactoferrin, Mycology
Support nucleotide blend, Naturomycin Spray, Naturomycin capsules, SHMT
Spray and/or AHCY/SHMT compound and grapefruit seed extract (GSE
capsules or GSE liquid). You may also consider BactiSolve if you do not have
shellfish allergies.
High tartaric acid can be due to yeast or fungal issues, or may result from a
lack of B12. A HMT and UEE can help to determine if lack of B12 is the issue.
You may also use a blood test for B12 levels. A high level of corpuscular
hemoglobin (MCH) in your red blood cells is a marker for low B12. Be sure
your lithium is in balance prior to adding extra B12, and determine the
optimal form of B12 support based on your Nutrigenomic testing. If
Nutrigenomic data is not available, use Hydroxy B12 and low dose Adenosyl
B12. Consider a CSA test or GI Effects test to determine if the issue is yeast or
fungal rather than a need for B12. If a CSA test and GI Effects test determine
Tartaric Acid
that yeast or fungus are the issues, then you can consider Candisol alternating
with Lactoferrin, Mycology Support nucleotide blend, Naturomycin Spray,
Naturomycin capsules, SHMT Spray, and/or AHCY/SHMT compound and
grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE liquid). You may also consider
BactiSolve if you do not have shellfish allergies. If a lack of B12 is the issue,
then consider low dose lithium support such as All in One and BeCalm
Spray along with appropriate forms of B12. If Nutrigenomics are not known,
then focus on Hydroxy B12 and Adenosyl B12, or Black Bear Spray or Black
Bear Drink, which is a combination of hydroxy and adenosyl B12.
Lactic Acid & Pyruvic Acid The MAP test has a helpful diagram that shows where lactic and pyruvic acids
feed into the Krebs energy cycle. Pyruvic feeds into the Krebs energy cycle
and is formed from carbohydrate via glucose, or can be from fats. Pyruvic acid
is also formed from lactic acid with O2 and zinc. So, zinc will help you to cycle
between lactic and pyruvic acids. The conversion of lactic or pyruvic acids into
Krebs energy cycle substrates requires B vitamins. If lactic and/or pyruvic
acids are building up, it would suggest that insufficient B vitamins are in place.
Ultimate B Complex is a source of B complex that uses the most readily
available forms of the B vitamins. Ultimate B Complex can be added, or add
each of the B vitamins individually, such as Pantothenic Acid, Benfotiamine,
Riboflavin-5-Phosphate and NADH or Niacinamide. Also, consider additional
energetic support, since a buildup of lactic and pyruvic acids suggests that
energy is not being generated appropriately from ingested food sources.
Consider direct energy support with MitoForce, or add Carnitine, CoQ10,
and/or Idebenone individually. Consider using Zinc, because when lactic acid
gets too high, it can recycle to pyruvic acid with O2 and zinc. Some reports
suggest the use of Yerba Mate to help with high levels of lactic acid due to
exercise, so that lactic acid does not build up in your muscles and cause that
painful, after-exercise soreness. Those who are ACAT+ may have particular
issues converting food into energy. The individual components in the ACAT
cap can be added one at time, or simply add ACAT/BHMT capsules.
Citric Acid Citric acid, cis-aconitic acid, and isocitric acid are the first three metabolites in
the Krebs Citric Acid energy production cycle, which operates in the
mitochondria of your cells. Mitochondria are the structures within your cell
that are your main source of energy. The terms citric acid, cis-aconitic acid,
and isocitric acid can be used interchangeably with citrate, cis-aconate and
isocitrate. They are just different forms of the same molecule. The same is
true for any other organic acid. They have two names for two different
forms of the substance, for example alpha ketoglutaric acid or alpha keto-
glutarate, succinic acid or succinate, etc. These terms are used
interchangeably throughout this chapter for the organic acids
discussed. Aluminum has a particularly destructive effect on many steps of
the Krebs Citric Acid Cycle. Aluminum interferes with the enzymes that
convert citrate to isocitrate, so high levels of citrate and isocitrate may
indicate that aluminum is high in your body. Additionally, lack of B12 can
cause the Krebs energy cycle to run in the reverse direction leading to
elevated citric acid. If a HMT and UEE indicate a need for more B12, then
supplement the appropriate form of B12 for your genetics, after you are sure
that your lithium is in balance. Lithium helps to transport B12 into your cells.
If levels of lithium are low in hair, urine or serum, consider low dose lithium
support. If citric acid is too low, consider increasing supports that help feed
into the Krebs energy cycle, such as MitoForce and Ultimate B Complex. You
can also consider supplements that supply citrate, such as Magnesium
Citrate, Potassium Citrate, etc. Consider supporting with MitoForce or the
individual components in MitoForce. Check HMT and UEE, and add B12 as
needed once lithium is in balance. Use the low dose lithium support in All in
One and/or BeCalm Spray when needed. Look for evidence of aluminum
toxicity and consider MetalAway, EDTA soap or EDTA soak if aluminum is
present. Consider natural supports for BH4, such as BH4 itself and MTHFR
A1298C Liver Support capsules. You can also consider using Lactoferrin,
Glutathione (GSH), and Vitamin K. High citric acid can be a sign of acidosis IF
citric acid is high but cis-aconitic acid is NOT as high. Acidosis can occur from
lack of bicarbonate due to decreased pancreatic enzymes, in which case
consider Special Digestive Enzymes (SDE) which are high in pancreatin. If
potassium is low on mineral tests, you can also consider low dose Potassium
Bicarbonate.
Cis-Aconitic Acid Aluminum interferes with the enzymes that convert citrate to isocitrate as
well as the next step which converts isocitrate to alpha ketoglutarate (alpha
KG), so high levels of cis-aconitate and isocitrate may indicate that your
aluminum is high. Lack of B12 can cause the Krebs energy cycle to run in the
reverse direction, potentially leading to elevated levels of citric acid, cis-
aconitic acid, and isocitric acid. If a HMT and UEE indicate a need for more
B12, then supplement B12 when you are sure that your lithium is in balance.
Lithium helps to transport B12 into your cells. If levels of lithium are low in
hair, urine or serum, use low dose lithium support. If citric acid is low,
consider increasing supports that help feed into the Krebs energy cycle, such
as MitoForce and Ultimate B Complex. Since iron and GSH play a role in the
conversion of citric acid to cis-aconitic and isocitric acids, the use of
supplements that help to move iron or support glutathione may also be a
help when cis-aconitic acid levels are low. Consider supporting with
MitoForce or the individual components in MitoForce. Check HMT and UEE,
and add B12 as needed. Consider the low dose lithium support in All in One
and/or BeCalm Spray when lithium is needed. Look for evidence of aluminum
toxicity and consider MetalAway, EDTA soap or EDTA soak if it is present.
Aluminum inhibits the DHPR enzyme that is necessary to convert BH2 into
BH4. Consider natural supports for BH4, such as BH4 itself and MTHFR
A1298C Liver Support capsules. You can also consider Lactoferrin, Glutathione
(GSH), and Vitamin K.
Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid Aluminum can inhibit the reaction that converts glutamate to alpha KG, so
(alpha KG) low levels of alpha KG may be an indication of high aluminum. Check
aluminum on a HMT and UEE, and support to address aluminum and BH4. If
alpha KG is very low it may be due to high aluminum or a lack of B12. You
may suspect that B12 is low especially if threonine, glycine and asparagine
are high on a UAA. If the level of phosphate is low on a HMT or UEE, leucine
may be increased. High leucine may also negatively impact alpha KG levels.
Low alpha KG may cause hypoglycemia. Check leucine levels on a UAA.
Determine if leucine is high in the absence of high isoleucine or high valine. If
this is the case, consider using ATP and Riboflavin-5-Phosphate for phosphate
support. If ammonia is very high on a UAA, and glutamate is also high, then
much of the alpha KG may have been converted to glutamate. Work on high
ammonia levels with CBS/NOS Kidney Support capsules. Check that sulfates
are not too high, and check molybdenum levels. High levels of T4 thyroid
hormone, thyroxine, inhibits the enzyme glutamate dehydrogenase, which
then can increase glutamate levels and decrease alpha KG. Check a CSA test
and GI Effects test, because imbalances in gut microbes can affect thyroid
hormones. PABA, found in Ultimate B and Niacinamide can be considered for
those who have concerns about thyroid autoimmunity. In addition, Coleus
may be a help to support the thyroid. Look for evidence of aluminum toxicity
and consider MetalAway, EDTA soap or EDTA soak if aluminum is present.
Aluminum inhibits the DHPR enzyme that is necessary to convert BH2 into
BH4, so consider natural supports for BH4, such as BH4 itself and MTHFR
A1298C Liver Support capsules. If lack of B12 is an issue, consider All in One,
BeCalm Spray, Hydroxy B12, Adenosyl B12, Black Bear Spray or Black Bear
Drink. If alpha KG levels are too high, consider Ultimate B. If leucine is also
high, consider ATP and Riboflavin-5-Phosphate.
Low succinic acid can be due to excess aluminum in your system. Look for
other signs of aluminum excess, such as high aluminum on a HMT and UEE,
imbalances in other Krebs cycle intermediates on the MAP, or a need for BH4
as evidenced by high phenylalanine, tyrosine, or tryptophan on a UAA. If
these indicators suggest that aluminum and BH4 are issues, then consider
MetalAway, EDTA soap, or EDTA soak, and BH4 supports, such as BH4 itself
and MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules. In addition, succinate helps to
limit the enzyme urocanase, which plays a role in increasing FIGLU and
glutamate. So, low levels of succinate may be a factor in high FIGLU and high
Succinic Acid glutamate. If succinic acid is too low, consider Vitamin E succinate and
Adenosyl B12. Low B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin) generally lead to extremely
high levels of succinic acid. If succinic acid is high, consider Riboflavin-5-
Phosphate and MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules. In addition, consider
NADH, Niacinamide or Ultimate B to support vitamin B3. Thallium can cause
issues with riboflavin levels, so if thallium is present on the UTM or HMT,
consider additional Riboflavin-5-Phosphate to help convert succinate to
fumarate. High succinate may combine with excess glycine to increase
porphyrins. Check glycine on a UAA, and use AHCY/SHMT compound if
needed.
Fumaric Acid Excess urea cycle function can generate high levels of fumarate, because
fumaric acid is one of the urea cycle products. To see if excess urea cycle
activity is causing high fumarate, look at a UAA to check arginine, ammonia,
citrulline, and ornithine levels. High ammonia may drive your system to more
urea cycle activity, so check ammonia on a UAA and support to address high
ammonia if needed. Be sure the Krebs cycle is supported so that fumarate
can be processed through the cycle. Specific nutrients such as Riboflavin-5-
Phosphate, NADH , and/or MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules may be a
help in processing fumarate. Support with MitoForce and sources of BH4 may
help to shift the emphasis toward the Krebs energy cycle rather than on the
urea cycle. A lack of B12 may cause the Krebs energy cycle to run in a reverse
direction and cause increased levels of intermediates, including fumarate.
Check markers for B12 levels, such as cobalt on a HMT and UEE, as well as
methylmalonic acid (MMA) on a MAP test. Blood testing for B12 includes
serum B12 levels and MCV. Be sure that lithium levels are in balance. In
addition, check for and address high aluminum. Aluminum can interfere with
the formation of BH4 that is needed for optimal urea cycle function. If BH4
appears to be low, consider supplementing BH4 or Royal Jelly if you have no
bee allergies. For low levels of fumarate, consider Carnitine fumarate.
Low levels of malic acid have been implicated in fatigue. Check a MAP test for
tartaric and citramalic acid levels. These acids can inhibit malic acid. Address
those as needed if malic acid levels are low. When malic acid levels are low,
Malic acid consider support with Muscle Fatigue Support compound as well as eating
apples. If levels of malic are high, consider Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, NADH,
and/or MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules to help with the processing of
malic acid.
Oxalic Acid A number of programs and tests focus on high oxalic acid, also called oxalate.
In my program, the issue of high oxalate is integrated into my larger concern
about overall biochemical balance. Aside from diet, there are a number of
factors that may contribute to high oxalate levels. A determination if the
trigger is, for example, high yeast or fungi, a lack of B12, or low ATP, is made
through interpretation of testing. The reason for the high oxalate then guides
your decisions as to how you address the problem. High oxalate may be due
to yeast and fungal infestation. These factors can be investigated with a CSA
test and GI Effects test, among others. Several chapters in this book contain
suggestions for what to do when these issues are found.High oxalate can also
be caused by low B12. Low B12 makes the Krebs cycle run in a reverse
direction, which increases oxalate. Check cobalt levels on a UEE and HMT.
Lithium transports B12 into your cells. Be sure that lithium is in balance with
these two tests as well. The Krebs cycle is the energy/ATP generating portion
of the mitochondria in your cells. Your level of B12 impacts enzymes in the
Krebs cycle, and the levels of Krebs intermediates are affected. Adequate
levels of B12 increase fumarate reductase, which then aids in processing
oxalate and fumarate (Kurumada and Labbe Science Vol 151 page
1228).Conversely, lack of B12 leads to increases in citrate lyase and succinate
dehydrogenase (Frenkel et al JBC Vol 251 page 2147). The net effect of these
enzymatic changes is to increase oxalate and fumarate levels. While fumarate
is generally converted to malate, it may happen that when fumarate levels
are high enough, some of it is converted to tartarate. Feedback inhibition by
high oxalate in addition to high fumarate may control the flow into malate,
such that fumarate and oxalate are converted to tartarate. The pathway that
leads to formation of tartarate from oxalate has been defined (Nakamura and
Ogata, JBC Vol 248 page528 and Shreeve and Meuter JBC Vol 239 page 729),
as has as the path from fumarate to tartarate (Kuni and Hernandez JBC page
201 and Finkle JBC page 349).Conditions of B12 deficiency, coming either as a
result of mutations in the methylation cycle, and/or by high level depletion of
B12 through endurance training or sports, can lead to increased levels of
tartarate, fumarate, and oxalate. High levels of tartarate in the absence of
high arabinose, or high levels of fumarate, should lead you to consider
supplementing with multiple forms and routes of B12. This includes chewable
hydroxyl, adenosyl, and methyl B12. The relative amounts depend on your
Nutrigenomics.
If you have high oxalate levels, you should consider increasing your
B12 support for an additional reason. Relative B12 deficiency increases
the conversion of citrate to oxalate via citrate lyase. Consider
Lactoferrin, Vitamin K, Pantothenic Acid, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate,
Curcumin, Benfotiamine, and GSH to increase the flow from pyruvate
through citrate and onto isocitrate as another way to decrease high
oxalate. The use of MitoForce may also support this conversion.
High levels of oxalates may increase ACE activity. The use of anxiety
support and progesterone may be helpful. (Umekawa et al J. Am SocÂ
Nephrol Vol 15, 2004).
Those who are ACAT + may also have problems converting nutrients
from food into the Krebs energy cycle, and the use of ACAT/BHMT
capsules may be a help in this regard.
High levels of sulfur in your system can have a negative impact on the
regeneration of ATP and NADH. This may be a particular issue for
those who are SUOX + – or CBS ++. MitoForce or ATP, NADH,
Vitamin E succinate, and Malic Acid help to regenerate these important
intermediates also.
If high glycine and/or high iron are the issues, consider SHMT support.
Aluminum and thallium can impair the function of the Krebs cycle, so
address thallium and aluminum if they are found to be elevated
on HMT, UTM or FMT.
Rule out yeast and fungal issues on a CSA test and GI Effects test.
Beta-Hydroxy-Beta- Similar to BHBA, high levels of HMG suggest problems processing nutrients to
Methylglutaric Acid (HMG) convert them into energy via the Krebs cycle. Studies suggest that Carnitine
may be a particular help. To help convert nutrients into energy, consider
MitoForce and additional Carnitine. If you are not using MitoForce, then
individually add the other ingredients in the MitoForce compounded
supplement, such as CoQ10, Benfotiamine, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate,
Pantothenic Acid, Policosanol, and Cholacol or ACAT/BHMT capsules to help
process fats.Also, rule out excessively high leucine on a UAA. If high leucine is
present in the absence of elevated valine or isoleucine, then consider
Riboflavin-5-Phosphate and ATP to support phosphate levels.
High adipic acid suggests fat processing problems. Biotin, low dose Adenosyl
B12, and Special Digestive Enzymes (SDE) may be a help. Consider a CSA test
and GI Effects test to look at short chain fatty acids. To help process fats,
Adipic Acid consider Carnitine and SDE. Also, consider MitoForce or add the other
ingredients in the MitoForce compounded supplement, such as CoQ10,
Benfotiamine, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate . Pantothenic Acid, Policosanol, and
Cholacol or ACAT/BHMT capsules to help process fats.
High suberic acid suggests a strong need for carnitine. High suberic acid is
often seen with H. pylori. This organism may deplete carnitine. Consider
ruling out H. pylori with a breath test, or running a CSA test and GI Effects test
to look at other possible markers for H. pylori, including gut pH. Carnitine
support is the key approach to high suberic acid. Also, consider MitoForce or
add the other ingredients in the MitoForce compounded supplement, such as
Suberic Acid CoQ10, Benfotiamine, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate , Pantothenic Acid, Policosanol,
and Cholacol or ACAT/BHMT capsules to help process fats. If you are
concerned that H. pylori may be the cause of your high suberic acid because
of other markers as well as clinical presentation, then you and your doctor
can consider the more complete H. pylori protocol used in this program. A
more mainstream approach to H. pylori is a triple prescription therapy,
including minocycline, augmentin, and proton pump inhibitors.
Vanilmandelic Acid (VMA) VMA is a breakdown product from both epinephrine and norepinephrine.
This MAP test also measures MHPG, which is a reflection of primarily the
breakdown of norepinephrine. So, comparing VMA to MHPG gives you a
sense of whether there is excessive breakdown of both, or only increased
breakdown of norepinephrine. It has been suggested that higher
norepinephrine activity relative to epinephrine is a factor in ADD/ADHD. This
is a reason to pay attention to the ratio of VMA to MHPG. If the values are
very elevated, consider a Neurotransmitter Test (NT test) to look directly at
epinephrine and norepinephrine levels in addition to their breakdown
products. If MHPG levels are higher than VMA, consider using Vitamin C,
because ascorbic acid may shift the balance to higher levels of epinephrine
relative to norepinephrine. Also, consider Phosphatidyl Serine Complex
(PS/PE/PC) and low dose Attention Support nucleotide blend. SAM-e may also
be helpful, depending on your Nutrigenomics. For very high levels of VMA,
also consider low dose Mood D nucleotide blend. Recent studies suggest that
Yohimbe may be a help in shifting to higher levels of epinephrine relative to
norepinephrine. Yohimbe is also reported to help with fat digestion and
healthy insulin levels. However, Yohimbe has also been suggested to help
with erectile dysfunction; for this reason, it should be used with caution in
children and teens. When your main concern is attention, focus, depression,
ADD, ADHD or OCD, then consider looking at neurotransmitters in several
ways. In addition to looking at the breakdown products on a MAP test, also
consider a Neurotransmitter Test (NT Test) to get the level of the NT, as well
as a UAA to assess the level of starting material to make NT and, if needed, a
Neopterin / Biopterin Profile Urine Test. In this way, you look at breakdown
on a MAP, the levels of neurotransmitters on a NT test, and the level of the
starting material for producing neurotransmitters on a UAA and biopterin
test.
Homovanillic Acid (HVA) HVA is the breakdown product of dopamine. If your values are very low, then
some additional support for dopamine production may be a help. Alternately,
support for the process that breaks down dopamine via Mao B may be
needed. Additional testing can help to differentiate between these options.
Consider a NT test to be sure that dopamine is in the normal range. Use a
UAA to see if there is sufficient tyrosine to produce dopamine, and if there is
evidence of sufficient BH4 to convert tyrosine into dopamine. If dopamine is
high on a neurotransmitter test, yet the HVA is low on a MAP, copper levels
may be too low. Dopamine is processed by the enzyme MAO B. This enzyme
requires copper to function. In addition, MAO B may be inhibited due to high
levels of hydrogen sulfide, which can decrease MAO activity. If levels of HVA
are very low, run a UAA to look at tyrosine levels to be sure there is sufficient
material for the body to produce dopamine. In addition, MAO B may be
inhibited due to high levels of hydrogen sulfide, which can decrease MAO
activity. In this case, looking at taurine levels and certain transulfuration
markers, such as cysteine, cystathionine, cystine, and glutathione on the UAA
may also be helpful. Also consider sulfur levels on a HMT and UEE to
determine if this may be a cause of low HVA. Licorice may inhibit MAO
enzymes, so limit the use of licorice if levels of HVA are very low. If low HVA is
ALSO associated with low dopamine on an NT test, then ascertain that there
is sufficient tyrosine and BH4 to make dopamine. You may need to consider
direct, low dose, natural supports for dopamine. These include low dose
Ginkgo Biloba, Mucuna Pruriens, Mycoceutics, low dose Mood D nucleotide
blend, and low dose Mood Focus nucleotide blend, depending on your
nutrigenomics. As always, work with and defer to your own doctor, especially
when addressing imbalances in neurotransmitters. Conversely, if values of
HVA are high, run a HMT and UEE to check copper levels. Be sure that copper
is not higher than zinc. The use of Molybdenum, Manganese and low dose
EDTA may help if copper levels are high. This may help to get copper into
better balance, and to slow down excessive dopamine breakdown, which
would lead to high HVA levels. When your main concern is attention, focus,
depression, ADD, ADHD or OCD, then consider looking at neurotransmitters in
a range of ways, not just the breakdown products on a MAP test. Also
consider a NT test, as well as a UAA, and, if needed, a Neopterin / Biopterin
Profile Urine Test. In this way, you look at breakdown on a MAP, levels of
neurotransmitters on a NT test, and starting material for producing
neurotransmitters on a UAA and biopterin test.
3-Methyl-4-OH- MHPG is the breakdown product from norepinephrine, but it may also be
produced from epinephrine to a lesser extent. Still, comparing VMA to MHPG
gives you a sense of whether there is excessive breakdown of both, or only
increased breakdown of norepinephrine. When norepinephrine is too high
relative to epinephrine, it may cause decreased ability to focus and attend.
High levels of norepinephrine may decrease BH4, so consider other testing to
be sure that sufficient BH4 is available. When your main concern is attention,
focus, depression, ADD, ADHD or OCD, then consider looking at
neurotransmitters in a range of ways, not just the breakdown products on a
MAP test. So, consider a NT test, as well as a UAA, and, if needed, a Neopterin
/ Biopterin Profile Urine Test. In this way, you look at breakdown on a MAP,
levels of neurotransmitters on a NT test, and starting material for producing
phenylglycol (MHPG)
neurotransmitters on a UAA and biopterin test. Supplements that may help
with attention include low dose Attention Support nucleotide blend, NADH,
MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules, BH4, Royal Jelly if you have NO bee
allergies, DMG, SAM-e, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC) and Zinc. If
MHPG levels are higher than VMA, consider using Vitamin C. Ascorbic acid
may shift the balance to higher levels of epinephrine relative to
norepinephrine. Recent studies suggest that Yohimbe may be a help in
shifting to higher levels of epinephrine relative to norepinephrine. Yohimbe is
also reported to help with fat digestion and with healthy insulin levels.
However, Yohimbe has also been suggested to help with erectile dysfunction.
For this reason, it should be used with caution in children or teens.
Quinolinic Acid Kynurenic acid, which is derived from the processing of tryptophan, is
converted to quinolinic acid in the presence of B6 or P5P. While kynurenic is
calming, quinolinic is an excitotoxin that can over stimulate nerves.
Excitotoxins can cause seizure activity, problems sleeping, heart palpitations,
nervous twitches, among other symptoms. Consider GABA Balance capsules,
BeCalm Spray, and Nerve Calm nucleotide blend. Consider a CSA test and GI
Effects test to check for bacterial issues that may be involved with breaking
down tryptophan, and to look at which specific microbes may need to be
addressed. For high levels of quinolinic acid from bacterial breakdown,
consider BactiSolve if you have NO shellfish allergies, Naturomycin Spray,
Naturomycin capsules, and grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE
liquid). Limit B6 and P5P.
As with any of the keto acids, ketosis may be an issue when high AKAA is
present. Ketosis can be a factor in lack of growth or poor weight gain. If you
are using a diet that can increase ketosis such as the Specific Carbohydrate
Diet or Paleolithic Diet, be aware that they may be a factor in high keto acids.
The use of Biotin and low dose Adenosyl B12 may be a help for ketosis. AKAA
is formed from tryptophan and lysine, so be sure that excess lysine is not
being added to your diet. See that there is sufficient BH4 to process
tryptophan into serotonin. You may also check serotonin levels on a NT test
and tryptophan and lysine levels on a UAA. To support healthy levels of BH4,
a-Ketoadipic Acid (AKAA) consider supplementing BH4 itself if other tests indicate a need. You can also
use MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules. In addition, use Ultimate B to help
support B vitamin cofactors. AKAA is a precursor to glutaric acid, so also
consider supplementing with Carnitine, as Carnitine is reported to help
mitigate the effects of glutaric acid. Run a CSA test and GI Effects test to rule
out bacterial production of AKAA. If bacterial issues are a concern, use gut
herbs, including Naturomycin Spray, Naturomycin capsules, and grapefruit
seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE liquid). Rule out H. pylori if other markers
or clinical presentations for that bacteria are present, such as history of acid
reflux, etc.
a-Ketoisovaleric Acid As with any of the keto acids, ketosis may be an issue when high AKAA is
(AKIV) present. Ketosis can be a factor in lack of growth or poor weight gain. If you
are using a diet that can increase ketosis such as the Specific Carbohydrate
Diet or Paleolithic Diet, be aware that they may be a factor in high keto acids.
AKIV is specifically due to breakdown of valine. Excess levels of the branched
chain amino acids (BCAA) of valine, leucine and isoleucine can cause a maple
syrup smell to your urine. Decreasing the use of BCAA can help.The use of
Biotin and low dose Adenosyl B12 may be a help for ketosis. Ultimate B can
be used to help support B vitamin cofactors for the processing of fats. Also,
consider using MitoForce and additional Carnitine. This is important, because
high levels of BCAA and their respective ketoacids have been implicated in
depletion of mitochondrial energy, which has significant negative effects on
your system. Consider support with SDE to help with fat digestion, and
ACAT/BHMT capsules if needed to help get fatty acids into a normal, healthy
range.Rule out H. pylori. With any case of suspected ketosis, run a CSA test
and GI Effects test to check on the processing of fats. Check a UAA to see that
nutrients are in fact being absorbed. You can also run an Intestinal
Permeability test. The Celiac test can also be run if desired.
As with any of the keto acids, ketosis may be an issue when high AKAA is
present. Ketosis can be a factor in lack of growth or poor weight gain. If you
are using a diet that can increase ketosis such as the Specific Carbohydrate
Diet or Paleolithic Diet, be aware that they may be a factor in high keto acids.
AKIC is specifically due to breakdown of leucine. Excess levels of the branched
chain amino acids (BCAA) of valine, leucine and isoleucine can cause a maple
syrup smell to your urine. A body odor that smells like “sweaty feet” may be
an indication of leucine breakdown issues. Decreasing the use of BCAA can
help.The use of Biotin and low dose Adenosyl B12 may be a help for ketosis.
Support with Ultimate B to supplement B vitamin cofactors. Also, consider
using MitoForce and additional Carnitine. This is important, as high levels of
BCAA and their respective ketoacids have been implicated in depletion of
mitochondrial energy that has significant negative effects on your system.
a-Ketoisocaproic Acid Support with SDE to help fat digestion and use ACAT/BHMT capsules if
(AKIC) needed to get fatty acids into a normal, healthy range. If only AKIC is elevated
without an elevation in AKIV or AKBM, then consider that low phosphate may
be increasing leucine levels. Check phosphate levels on a HMT and UEE and
support with ATP and Riboflavin-5-Phosphate if the levels of phosphate are
low. Rule out H. pylori as with any case of suspected ketosis, and run a CSA
test and GI Effects test to check on the processing of fats. Check a UAA to see
that nutrients are being absorbed. Conversely, low levels of AKIC may be a
factor in absence seizures, along with low levels of leucine in particular and
BCAA in general. If levels of AKIC are very low, along with low levels of BCAA
on a UAA, then consider BCAA support and AminoAssist. Be sure that no
maple syrup smell comes to your urine due to too much support. This is
important, as high levels of BCAA and their respective ketoacids are an issue
as described above. However, extremely low levels are a risk factor for other
health conditions.
a-Keto-b-Methylvaleric As with any of the keto acids, ketosis may be an issue when high AKAA is
Acid (AKBM) present. Ketosis can be a factor in lack of growth or poor weight gain. If you
are using a diet that can increase ketosis such as the Specific Carbohydrate
Diet or Paleolithic Diet, be aware that they may be a factor in high keto acids.
AKBM is specifically due to breakdown of isoleucine. Excess levels of the
branched chain amino acids (BCAA) of valine, leucine and isoleucine can
cause a maple syrup smell to your urine. Decreasing the use of BCAA can
help. The use of Biotin and low dose Adenosyl B12 may be a help for ketosis.
In addition, Ultimate B may help to support B vitamin cofactors. Also,
consider MitoForce and additional Carnitine. This is important, as high levels
of BCAA and their respective ketoacids have been implicated in depletion of
mitochondrial energy that has significant negative effects on your system.
Support with SDE to help with fat digestion and use ACAT/BHMT capsules if
needed to help get fatty acids into a normal, healthy range. Rule out H. pylori
as with any case of suspected ketosis, and run a CSA test and GI Effects test to
check on the processing of fats. Check a UAA to be sure that nutrients are
being absorbed.
Formiminoglutamic Acid High FIGLU suggests that adequate folate is not in place. All in One supplies
(FIGIU) low doses of folic acid, folinic acid, and 5 methyl THF. There are two key
reasons to support with low doses of folate/folic acid, in addition to the use
of specific types of folate such as 5 methyl THF that help to bypass mutations
like MTHFR C677T. First, since 1959 it has been known that “folic acid
deficiency results in inability to degrade formiminoglutamic acid (FIGLU) to
glutamic acid, so that FIGLU accumulates in excessive amounts and is
excreted in the urine”. (Luhby, Am J Clin Nutr). FILGU levels are measured on
this MAP test, and high levels suggest a need to use low dose folate/folic acid
support. The second reason to look at low dose folic acid/folate is the
pathway that involves MTHFS. A low dose form of plain folate or folic acid is
supplemented in part to address possible MTHFS mutations, especially since
they are not generally identified on most nutrigenomic tests. MTHFS is
another enzyme in the methylation pathway. It functions at 11:00 in the
folate cycle, between 5 formyl THF (folinic) on the way to produce
tetrahydrofolate at 12:00. MTHFS functions to address SHMT and the
formation of the purines guanine and adenine for DNA and RNA formation. If
there is a mutation that impacts the ability of MTHFS to function, it can
increase folinic acid to high levels and limit the synthesis of purines, as well as
decrease the THF level. In this program, my policy is to use only low dose
folinic acid, to add nucleotides to support DNA and RNA production, and to
use low dose folic acid along with probiotics as a secondary way to make THF.
In this way, I bypass the impact of any possible MTHFS mutation, even if I do
not have nutrigenomic data regarding this gene. This again highlights why I
want to think about all aspects of the pathway when adding support. I choose
to add only low dose folinic acid to help keep SHMT in balance without
allowing the levels of folinic to climb, which might happen if you are adding
high dose folinic and have a MTHFS mutation. I add nucleotides to supply
purines and pyrimidines in case the pathway for their formation is not fully
functional. I add low dose folic acid to have a secondary route for making THF
that consumes excess glutamate in doing this. The rationale behind also
adding low dose 5 methyl THF is that the way to bypass an MTHFR C677T
mutation is with 5 methyl THF. If you look at the biochemical diagrams you
can see this. No amount of folinic, folate, or folic acid is going to bypass a
MTHFR C677T mutation. So, the whole conversation about folic acid or folate
is actually misplaced, as the real issue is 5 methyl THF. There is some sort of
misconception out there that folate will bypass MTHFR. To be clear, 5 methyl
THF is the only way to bypass MTHFR C677T. I have it in low dose form in
both All in One as well as Methylmate B. If you are C677T ++, using high dose
5 methyl THF can trigger more detox than you can handle, especially if you
are an adult. This is why All in One uses low dose 5 methyl THF, and my stand
alone source of 5 methyl THF, Methylmate B, is a liquid, so you have exquisite
control over increasing or decreasing its dose. MOST of the folate that is used
for this program is 5 methyl THF, with some low dose folinic acid. Folinic is
useful for those who are SHMT + or have iron levels that may increase SHMT
activity. Some low dose folic acid/folate is helpful for other aspects of the
pathway, and that is why some very, very low dose folic acid is included in
the formulation.To summarize, I do feel that some low dose folinic acid is
needed to help to control SHMT, which is why All in One also has some low
dose folinic. I do not like high dose folinic as those with MTHFS mutations can
have a problem with it. Finally, for adequate processing of FIGLU, I want some
low dose folate/folic acid in your system. Because the various forms of folate
compete with each other for transport into your cells, the ratio in the All in
One is mostly 5 methylTHF, with a lesser amount of folinic, and finally the
least amount of folic acid.Now I am going to be very specific with regard to
why I use low dose folic acid rather than folate. Folate is basically a chain of
glutamates. The difference between folic acid and folate is the stability and
the length of their glutamate chains. So, if you are MTHFR C677T++ and you
take high dose folate, you potentially have a chain of unused glutamate
molecules left in your system. You cannot process it efficiently to 5 methyl
THF because of your SNPs. You run the risk of folate breaking down to release
glutamate into your system. STEP 1 of this program is focused on
glutamate/GABA balance. I have made significant progress for some
individuals merely by getting their glutamate and GABA into balance. Thus, I
am not choosing to add high doses of a form of folate that could break down
into glutamate, especially in the population I work with.
One of the main differences between folic acid and folate is that folic
acid has a shorter glutamate chain than folate. Folic acid is also more
stable, so it is less likely to break down into glutamate. I am using only
a tiny bit of folic acid, to allow FIGLU to convert to glutamic acid. I am
not using high dose folic acid, as that is not going to bypass MTHFR in
any event. I understand there are other programs out there that use
higher doses of plain folate. Perhaps those programs are less concerned
with the glutamate issue.
The use of LOW dose folic acid is a choice, to limit the risk of increased
glutamate in your system. The RDA for folate/folic acid is 300
micrograms for a child that is 1 year old, up to 1,000 micrograms daily
for an individual 19 years of age or older. Thus the 15 to 40 micrograms
used for this program is not an issue, especially since the body does
need some folate/folic acid aside from the need for 5 methyl THF and
folinic. To put this in an easily understandable perspective, a bowl of
cheerios has 400 micrograms of folic acid, as compared to the 15 to 40
micrograms used in this program.
To reiterate the approach: (1) get the BHMT pathway moving with
Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC) plus DHA, SAM-e if
tolerated, All in One, Ultimate B, and low dose methylation RNA; (2)
add some low dose lithium support with BeCalm Spray, and run a HMT
to be sure you have checked lithium to see if you need low dose Lithium
Orotate. If aggression is an issue, pay close attention to potassium and
rubidium on your HMT. If your lithium is very low, run a HMT every 3
to 4 months to keep an eye on levels; (3) once lithium is in balance, you
can add extra B12; (4) add Methylmate A and Methylmate B to be sure
you have the cycle fully supported; (5) if you have SHMT + status or
high iron on HMT and UEE, use SHMT support along with step 1 and 2
above; (6) be sure you have probiotics in place, focusing on
Lactobacillus and Bifidobacter; (7) run a HMT to check lithium every
few months once you have extra B12 in place.
In terms of support for high levels of FIGLU, the use of All in One
supplies specialized forms of folate. Also, once it is clear that lithium is
in balance on a HMT, consider low dose Methylmate A and Methylmate
B for comprehensive methylation support. Use Vitamin E succinate if
succinate levels are low. Also, consider a CSA test and GI Effects test
to rule out Pseudomonas. Consider the use of gut herbs including
Naturomycin Spray, Naturomycin capsules, and grapefruit seed extract
(GSE capsules or GSE liquid) when necessary.
Glutaric acid is a breakdown product of lysine and/or tryptophan, so limit
lysine support. Run a UAA to be sure that tryptophan is being converted
properly to serotonin, that adequate BH4 is present, as well as checking
serotonin levels on a NT test. Glutaric acid is also produced by bacteria, so
Glutaric Acid
consider a CSA test and GI Effects test. Carnitine is reported to help mitigate
the effects of glutaric acid, so consider extra Carnitine support. If bacterial
issues are a concern, then use grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE
liquid), Naturomycin Spray, and Naturomycin capsules.
MMA is most often considered to be a sign of low B12, which it is. However, it
is also related to the breakdown of the branched chain amino acids (BCAA) of
leucine, isoleucine, and valine. If high methylmalonic acid is seen on a MAP
and high leucine on a UAA, consider using low dose Adenosyl B12 and Biotin.
High levels of MMA may be associated with a maple syrup smell from your
Methylmalonic Acid urine. MMA may enhance the impact of excess glutamate, so consider
(MMA) supports to balance glutamate, such as GABA Balance capsules, Nerve Calm
nucleotide blend, and BeCalm Spray. Excess MMA can react with high glycine
to increase porphyrins. Check glycine on a UAA. Use SHMT Spray and
AHCY/SHMT compound as needed to help keep glycine in balance. When
MMA is high, limit BCAA support, and use Adenosyl B12 and Biotin to help
with its processing.
3-Hydroxyisovaleric Acid Ketosis of any type can cause a non specific elevation in hydroxyisovaleric
acid. With high hydroxyisovaleric acid, consider support with Biotin and
Adenosyl B12 to help with ketosis, and run a CSA test and GI Effects test to
check on the processing of fats. Rule out H. pylori as with any case of
suspected ketosis. Use a UAA to be sure that nutrients are being
absorbed. Biotin, Adenosyl B12, MitoForce, and extra Carnitine can be used
for ketosis. Consider BeCalm Spray, GABA Balance capsules and Nerve Calm
nucleotide blend for glutamate issues related to ketosis. Consider SDE to help
with fat digestion and ACAT/BHMT capsules if needed. If you are using a diet
that can increase ketosis such as the Specific Carbohydrate Diet or Paleolithic
Diet, be aware that they may contribute to high keto acids.
When high levels of these two toxic breakdown products are found, the
function of support systems such as the liver and kidneys may be impaired by
excess toxin exposure. B12 may play a role in processing these compounds,
α-Ketophenylacetic Acid so use low dose B12, and be sure lithium is in balance to help with B12
(from styrene) &α- transport into the cells. Check lithium on a HMT and UEE prior to adding more
Hydroxyisobutyric Acid B12 than the low levels found in All in One. Consider Liver Support nucleotide
(from MTBE) blend, and MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules. Consider GSH and
Quercetin to help with possible DNA damage, along with the use of Ultifend,
SHMT Spray and AHCY/SHMT compound supply nucleotides. Also, consider
Ora-Kidney and Kidney Support nucleotide blend.
Orotic acid lies along the biochemical route for making DNA building blocks.
When levels of orotic acid are high, use ATP to convert the orotic that has
built up into pyrimidines. Also, use SHMT Spray, AHCY/SHMT compound, and
All in One to supply nucleotides to your system. Excess orotic acid may be a
sign of increased ammonia, so consider a UAA and address excess ammonia if
needed. Consider CBS/NOS Kidney Support capsules to help ammonia
Orotic Acid
detox.Be sure that methylation support is in place so that you can produce
thymidine from uridine, which is the next step after orotic acid. Basic
methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex
(PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is
shown to be in balance on a HMT, then use low dose Methylmate A and
Methylmate B, along with extra B12.
Pyroglutamic Acid Pyroglutamic acid is an intermediate in GSH recycling. There may be too
much emphasis on the BHMT pathway, what I call the short cut, of the
methylation cycle, or not enough entry into the transulfuration portion when
high levels of pyroglutamic are seen. A UAA can be run to assess this balance.
Ultimate B may be a help in this regard. Increased gamma glutamyl
transferase (GGT) may also generate pyroglutamic acid. This can be due to H.
pylori, so rule out H.pylori with testing. Be sure both the long route, the
MTR/MTRR pathway, and the short cut, the BHMT pathway, around the cycle
are supported, as well as using Ultimate B. You can consider adding low dose
GSH. Basic methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine
Complex (PS/PE/PC) , DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once
lithium is shown to be in balance on a HMT, then use low dose Methylmate A
and Methylmate B, along with extra B12.
The Urine Amino Acids Test (UAA) gives you information about amino acids, the building
blocks for the proteins in your body. Essential amino acids are those which must be in your diet.
Your body cannot synthesize these. Non-essential amino acids are those which can be
synthesized from other constituents, given that the substrates necessary for their formation are
present in your body.
The genetic information that is stored and transmitted in the four-letter alphabet and language of
DNA is ultimately expressed in the twenty-letter language of proteins. All proteins, whether
from the most ancient lines of bacteria or from the most complex forms of life, are constructed
from the same ubiquitous set of twenty amino acids, linked in characteristic sequences. These
amino acids are precursor molecules to protein structures with strikingly different properties and
activities. From these building blocks, these relatively simple subunits, your body makes such
widely diverse structures as enzymes, hormones, antibodies, transporters, muscle fibers, and the
lens portion of the eye.
UAA testing gives you a sense of the overall nutrient absorption from your gastrointestinal tract
(GI tract), as well as shows you how well you are doing with the compounds in your methylation
cycle. It measures homocysteine, an important indicator of cardiac health and pro inflammatory
status in your body, and a component of the methylation cycle. It also measures methionine,
taurine, phospholipids, and other compounds which are indicators of methylation cycle status. It
gives you a sense of your ability to make methyl groups by measuring the level of molecules that
need methyl groups to be processed.
Overall Amino Acids For low overall amino acids, either you are not eating enough
protein and/or your GI tract is not absorbing them well.
Consider appropriate diet and supplements to address amino
acid support. Consider a CSA test and GI Effects test to address
digestive issues. You can also consider running an Intestinal
Permeability test and a Celiac test. Also consider a MAP test to
look for ketosis. For low overall amino acids, consider Egg
Protein Powder, AminoAssist capsules, and AminoAssist spray
for three routes of administration of amino acids. Also,
consider Bowel Support nucleotide blend, VitaOrgan, and
Royal Jelly, if you have no bee allergies. Ora-Placenta may also
be a help to support amino acids.
Lysine Lysine is often used to help with Herpes cold sores. Alternate
supports for this can include alternating IMF 1, IMF 2, and IMF
6, or topical Clear Skin spray, to help lower the level of lysine
support needed. In addition, some studies suggest that lithium
may be a help for Herpes (Amsterdam, 1996). Lysine can
impact calcium absorption and retention. Consider a UEE and
HMT to look at calcium levels when lysine is being
supplemented, or when lysine levels are significantly out of
balance. AKAA may lead to high Lysine, so check AKAA levels
on a MAP test. If lysine levels are high, yet alpha amino adipic
acid is low, consider Ultimate B and/or low dose P5P, as lysine
intermediates that build up prior to alpha amino adipic acid
can inhibit P5P. If ornithine, cysteine, and carnosine are high
along with lysine, then rule out dibasic-aminoaciduria. The use
of low dose Citrulline as well as adequate methylation support
may help in this case. Rerun a UAA after 4 to 8 weeks to be
sure that these dibasic amino acids are in better balance. High
oxaloacetate can convert to high lysine and high threonine. If
both lysine and threonine are high, consider a MAP test and
addressing oxalates. Pay attention to B12 levels and lithium for
B12 transport if oxalate issues are suspected. B vitamins can
be a help in processing lysine. Consider Ultimate B and/or add
each of the B vitamins individually including NADH, Riboflavin-
5-Phosphate, B12, and Vitamin PQQ. Vitamin PQQ is a new B
vitamin and is included in Ultimate B. Ultimate B includes a
natural support for PQQ. For energy, consider CoQ10,
Carnitine, and MitoForce. Chervil is another possible source of
PQQ as well as a source of vitamin A.For low overall amino
acids, support with diet and supplements, and consider a CSA
test and GI Effects test to look for imbalances in your digestive
tract and fatty acid processing.For low overall amino acids,
consider Egg Protein Powder, AminoAssist capsules, and
AminoAssist spray for three routes of administration of amino
acids. Also, consider Bowel Support nucleotide blend,
VitaOrgan, and Royal Jelly if you have no bee allergies. Ora-
Placenta may also be a help to support amino acids.
Leucine Leucine, isoleucine and valine are all branched chain amino
acids. Generally the levels of all three will track together, so if
one is high all three will generally be high, if one is low all
three will generally be low. If the three BCAAs, leucine,
isoleucine, and valine, are all high, then consider Adenosyl B12
and Biotin to help process them, or use Black Bear Spray and
Biotin. There are certain instances in which the level of only
one of the three is impacted. If phosphate is low, then only
leucine may be increased, but not isoleucine or valine. High
leucine, in turn, may increase glutamate, which may increase
alpha KG, which may cause hypoglycemia. So, check
phosphate levels on UEE and HMT, and check alpha KG on a
MAP. If leucine alone is high, then consider ATP and
Riboflavin-5-Phosphate to support phosphate levels. Also,
check for signs of ketosis on a MAP test when high levels of
leucine, isoleucine or valine are noted, as the ketoacids of
these amino acids are present on the MAP test. The
combination of high levels of one or more of the BCAA on this
UAA with high levels of ketoacids on a MAP would suggest
possible ketosis and the need to adjust diet as well as consider
supporting with Adenosyl B12, Biotin and Special Digestive
Enzymes. Specific issues with the breakdown of leucine may
cause an overall body odor that smells like “sweaty feet”. Low
levels of leucine, its ketoacid AKIC, and low levels of BCAAs in
general, may be a factor in absence seizures. If levels of AKIC
on a MAP are very low, along with low levels of leucine or
BCAAs on this UAA, then consider BCAA support and
AminoAssist capsules, again being sure there is no maple syrup
smell in your urine due to too much support. This is important
because high levels of BCAAs and their respective ketoacids
have been implicated in depletion of mitochondrial energy
which has significant negative effects. If all three BCAAs are
low, then consider low dose BCAA support. Be sure there is no
maple syrup smell coming from your urine. If a maple syrup
smell is present, then discontinue BCAA support. Be sure that
you have sufficient Adenosyl B12 and Biotin in place before
adding any BCAAs back. Lack of BCAAs can be a factor in a
number of neurological symptoms, including some cases of
Bell’s Palsy.For overall low amino acids, consider Egg Protein
Powder, AminoAssist capsules and AminoAssist spray for three
routes of administration. Also Bowel Support nucleotide
blend, VitaOrgan, and if you have no bee allergies, Royal Jelly.
Ora-Placenta may also help to support amino acids.
Isoleucine Leucine, isoleucine and valine are all branched chain amino
acids. Generally the levels of all three will track together, so if
one is high all three will be high, if one is low all three will be
low. If the three BCAAs, leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are all
high, then consider Adenosyl B12 and Biotin to help process
them, or use Black Bear Spray and Biotin. However, there are
certain instances in which the level of only one of the three is
outside of the normal range. If only isoleucine is high, and not
leucine or valine, it may be due to high oxaloacetate, which
may indicate a need for more B12. Also look at suggestions for
oxalates in Chapter 4 on the MAP test. If all three BCAAs are
low, then use low dose BCAA support. Be sure there is no
maple syrup smell coming from your urine. If a maple syrup
smell is present, then discontinue BCAA support. Be sure that
you have sufficient Adenosyl B12 and Biotin in place before
adding any BCAAs back. Lack of BCAAs can be a factor in a
number of neurological symptoms, including some cases of
Bell’s Palsy. Low levels of BCAAs, in particular low levels of
leucine, may be a factor in absence seizures. If levels of BCAAs
are very low, along with low levels of isoleucine, then consider
BCAA support and AminoAssist, again being sure there is no
maple syrup smell coming from your urine due to too much
support. This is important because high levels of BCAAs and
their respective ketoacids have been implicated in depletion of
mitochondrial energy which has significant negative effects.
For overall low amino acids, consider Egg Protein Powder,
AminoAssist capsules and AminoAssist spray for three routes
of administration. Also Bowel Support nucleotide blend,
VitaOrgan, and if you have no bee allergies, Royal Jelly. Ora-
Placenta may also help to support amino acids.
Glutamine & glutamate Excess glutamate can over excite your nerve cells, causing
excitotoxicity. I have spoken and written about this in many
places. The levels of both glutamine and glutamate need to be
considered when looking for causes of excitotoxicity, because
they convert into one another. The enzyme glutaminase
converts glutamine into glutamate, and in the presence of
ammonia and ATP, glutamate is converted back into
glutamine. The supplements that may help with
glutamate/GABA balance are Nerve Calm nucleotide blend, Be
Calm Spray, and GABA Balance capsules. Valerian root may be
helpful in conjunction with GABA. Pycnogenol, Grape Seed
Extract and Resveratrol may also be used. Support Carnosine if
your levels are low, because carnosine may decrease
glutamate transport into the cells. Jujube & CoQ10 may also
help control excess glutamate. KuShen tea is also reported to
help with excess glutamate. Eliminate sources of glutamate
and excitotoxins. Also, check a HMT and UEE for the levels of
minerals that help with glutamate and calcium balance, such
as Zinc, Magnesium, and Lithium. According to the literature,
creatine may help pull down glutamate, so consider Creatine
support if your creatinine levels are low. If your level of
phosphate is low, then leucine may be increased, which, in
turn, may increase glutamate and alpha KG, and be associated
with hypoglycemia. Check hydroxyproline levels. High
hydroxyproline can increase glycine and glutamate. When
glutamate is high, then glycine can exacerbate the effects of
glutamate, so check glycine levels. Use SHMT support as
needed to help with glycine balance. H2S increases NMDA
receptor responses, so it is important to check taurine levels
to be sure there is not too much generation of H2S from
taurine. See suggestions for balancing high taurine levels if this
is an issue. Be sure there is sufficient Molybdenum and B12 to
process sulfites. You can use Black Bear Spray or Black Bear
Drink for low dose molybdenum and B12 support. Check
lithium before adding high dose B12.High levels of thyroxine
(T4) inhibit glutamate dehydrogenase, which turns glutamate
into alpha KG. This can increase glutamate levels and decrease
alpha KG. T4 is contained in Synthroid and other prescription
thyroid. Consider a CSA test and GI Effects test because
imbalances in gut microbes can also affect thyroid hormone
production.
Glycine If either serine or glycine are higher than most other amino
acids, consider SHMT support. Also, limit iron, and consider
using All in One as a low dose source of nucleotides. When
high glycine is observed it is also important to check the levels
of methylmalonic acid (MMA), succinate, and benzoic acid on
a MAP test. Excess levels of glycine can combine with benzoic
to form hippuric acid (benzoic acid is used as a food
preservative and is naturally found in a number of foods
especially berries). While increased hippuric acid in the urine is
generally accepted to be due to microbial issues, it can also be
due to reactions that can occur secondary to high glycine
(combining with benzoic in the system) to produce excess
hippuric acid. MMA converts to succinate in the presence of
B12. When succinate combines with glycine it generates
porphyrins. Thus increased levels of MMA and/or succinate
can ultimately lead to increases in biochemical porphyrin
products after reaction with excess glycine. If high levels of
porphyrins are seen on a porphrin test it is important to check
glycine levels to determine if high glycine along with high citric
acid intermediates (ie succinate) are the actual source of the
high porphyrins. Keep in mind that certain nutritional supports
will also increase glycine levels which in turn may influence the
levels of biochemical products such as hippuric and
prophryrins. High levels of support with trimethylglycine
(TMG), or the direct supplementation with glycine may
increase both glycine and sarcosine, which can in turn increase
porphyrin and hippuric acid levels. TMG is also called betaine,
which is contained in the digestive support Betaine HCl.
Often the levels of ethanolamine are high for those who are
ACAT+, so consider ACAT/BHMT capsules and/or low dose
Cholacol when this is the case. Also, you can consider using
Ethanolamine
Policosanol, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, ATP, SAM-e, and/or
MitoForce when ethanolamine is high.For low levels, consider
Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC) as well as SAM-e.
Alpha Aminoadipate High levels of lysine, too much lysine support, or not enough
alpha KG, may cause high alpha aminoadipate. Ultimate B may
help in balancing this pathway. Check alpha KG levels on a
MAP test and see suggestions for alpha KG support if indicated
by the values found there. Also, Ultimate B serves as a source
of low dose vitamin PQQ, which may help with lysine/alpha
aminoadipate balance. Alpha aminoadipate may inhibit the
enzymes glutamine synthetase and gamma-glutamylcysteine
synthetase. Thus, high levels of alpha aminoadipate may cause
increases in glutamate and decreases of GSH. It may also
cause tryptophan to rise. In addition, alpha aminoadipate has
been reported to decrease the level of kynurenic acid, which is
calming and helps to modulate excitotoxins, as well as to help
with seizure activity. Since alpha aminoadipate may lower
kynurenic acid levels, consider using Nerve Calm nucleotide
blend and Be Calm Spray when alpha aminoadipate levels are
high. If lysine levels are high, yet alpha aminoadipate is low,
consider using Ultimate B and/or low dose P5P, because
lysine intermediates that build up prior to alpha amino
adipate can inhibit P5P.
Anserine & Carnosine Increased levels of carnosine and anserine may be due to high
beta-alanine. High beta-alanine may be due to excess
aspartate. So, check to see if aspartate is high when you have
high carnosine or anserine. Consider support to help address
aspartate if it is high. Supports can include Nerve Calm
nucleotide blend, Be Calm Spray, and GABA Balance capsules.
High aspartate may also be due to a lack of ATP, NADH, and B
complex. Consider using ATP and NADH or MitoForce, along
with Ultimate B. Also, eliminate sources of aspartate and
aspartame. Supplement to decrease glutamate and increase
GABA if they are unbalanced. A high ratio of uridine to
thymidine in your body may also lead to high levels of beta-
alanine. Lack of methylation capacity in your body results in
your having too few methyl groups. This may generate more
uridine relative to thymidine in your system. Thymidine is 3-
methyl uracil, uracil that has been methylated at the 3
position. Use methylation cycle support to address this. Basic
methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine
Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA, and Methylation Support
nucleotide blend. Low dose Methylmate A can be added
before lithium is in balance. Once lithium is shown to be in
balance on a HMT, then use low dose Methylmate B along
with extra B12. If carnosine is low, support with Carnosine, as
carnosine may help with glutamate issues. In addition, be sure
sufficient methylation support is in place, along with low dose
THF. THF is found in All in One and Ultimate B.A lack of THF
can cause increases in histidine. The breakdown of histidine
then may cause higher levels of beta alanine, methylhistidine,
anserine, and carnosine.If anserine and carnosine are
excessively high, while FIGLU on a MAP test is very low,
consider that histidase may not be functioning optimally. Be
sure copper is not low, as histidase needs copper to function.
Rule out a histidase deficiency if levels do not balance with
methylation support as well as the supports suggested above.
Recall that excess histidine can increase cholesterol levels, and
cause issues with histamine and sensitivity.If carnosine is high
along with high ornithine, lysine and cysteine, rule out dibasic
aminoaciduria. High carnosine may also reflect a need for
more muscle support, especially if beta-alanine is also high. If
this is the case, consider low dose Muscle Support nucleotide
blend as well as Muscle Fatigue Support compound.
A key factor in multi-factorial conditions is the infectious disease burden you have in your body.
In addition to blood testing for antibody titers for a range of bacterial and viral conditions, there
are stool tests that can detect what organisms, normal and pathogenic, are present in your
gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Stool analysis tests can give you an indication of the bacterial and yeast load in your GI tract. My
preference is to run more than one GI stool test simultaneously because various tests give related
but non-identical information. The Comprehensive Stool Analysis does not limit the organisms it
allows to grow. It reports any organisms that grow in a given amount of time. This is a useful
tool for detecting a range of non-optimal organisms that may be growing in your gut.
But a Comprehensive Stool Analysis may not pick up very slow growing or oxygen sensitive
organisms. Tests that use a DNA probe or include saliva based antibody screens often detect very
small numbers of slow growing organisms. This is excellent for determining if slow growing
organisms are an issue even if they did not grow on the Comprehensive Stool Analysis.
However, DNA probe tests or saliva antibody markers only look for a limited number of
organisms. It can identify only those organisms for which their specific DNA probe or the
particular antibody assayed is included in the test. For this reason, the combination of a
Comprehensive Stool Analysis along with a second GI panel that includes saliva antibody
markers and/or DNA probe testing for microorganisms yields more comprehensive data.
The GI Health Panel determines bacterial, parasitic as well as food related issues using a
combination of saliva based antigen testing along with the growth of organisms to look for very
specific organisms as well as specific toxins or antibodies to individual microbes. This test is
useful for slow growing organisms like anaerobes or Clostridia and also looks at Helicobacter
pylori antibodies in saliva.
While the H.pylori test that is included in the GI Health Panel is not a DNA based test it does
measure antibodies in saliva that the body has produced in response to the presence of H.pylori.
When there are concerns about H.pylori (such as chronic acid reflux), I prefer to run this saliva
test for H.pylori antibody along with the H.pylori antigen test in stool from DDI. These two tests
work well together as one looks at the antibody in saliva produced in response to H.pylori and
the stool test from DDI measures evidence of antigens from H.pylori in stool.
The expanded GI Health Panel would make sense if an individual was particularly concerned
about parasites or wanted another mechanism to check sensitivity to milk and wheat/gluten
rather than the Celiac test.
In addition to looking at specific organisms that are present the idea is to look at BOTH the gut
environment as well as specific microbes. In terms of the gut environment, the goal is to have a
balanced pH; sufficient elastase; balanced levels of fatty acids reflecting appropriate fatty acid
digestion; low levels of inflammatory markers; lack of blood, mucous, or muscle in the stool;
and normal ranges of lactoferrin, cholesterol, and triglycerides. A healthy gut environment is
more conducive to the growth of appropriate flora rather than non-optimal microbes.
Imbalances in gut microbes can affect your thyroid hormones. Instead of using thyroid
peroxidase to make thyroid hormone, your body uses this enzyme to combat abnormal GI
organisms. Fluctuating levels of thyroid hormone can result. High levels of T4, the thyroid
hormone thyroxine, inhibit glutamate dehydrogenase, which can increase your glutamate levels,
reduce alpha keto-glutarate, and give you the symptoms of excitotoxicity.
Gut Environment
For imbalances in the levels of elastase and long chain fatty
acids, consider 1 or 2 Special Digestive Enzymes (SDE) with
each meal, along with 1 or more FOK capsules daily for
pancreatic support, and support for pancreatin and digestive
Elastase Long chain fatty acids
enzymes. If this is not sufficient to get elastase levels into the
normal range, then also consider an ACAT/BHMT capsules
with each meal. Run a HMT and UTM to rule out high thorium,
since thorium can bind and inhibit digestive enzymes.
If your cholesterol levels are high, you can consider low dose
Red Rice Yeast. When using any supplement or medication
Cholesterol
that helps to keep cholesterol in a normal range, also use
CoQ10.
Gut pH Ideally, your gut pH should be around 7. Levels that are too
low may grow the non-optimal microbes that are able to
thrive at a low pH, such as H.pylori, E.coli and Streptococci. In
addition, a low gut pH makes it difficult for healthy, normal
flora such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacter to colonize the
area. Low pH may mask the growth of other non-ideal
organisms, so a full picture of your microbial imbalances may
not be seen until your gut pH is closer to 7. For this reason,
even if no dysbiotic flora are noted, if your GI pH is at 5, there
may still be a range of imbalanced flora that are simply not
being identified. In these cases, it is suggested that another set
of stool tests, CSA and GI Effects, be run once the low pH has
been addressed. Wide swings in pH, for instance a pH of 5 on a
CSA, and a pH of 7 or 8 on a GI Effects test, when both samples
have been taken during the same time period, may indicate H.
pylori. While H. pylori is attracted to a low pH, it then produces
urease, which increases the gut pH so that it can thrive.
Separate tests for H. pylori can be run to rule out this
possibility. In addition, a breath test for urease produced by
H.pylori can be run by your doctor and may be the most
sensitive test for this organism. pH strips can be used at
various points throughout the day to check your progress in
balancing gut pH prior to rerunning GI tests. Check pH in the
morning, mid or late day, and again before bed. Alternately,
supplements can be added for 6 to 8 weeks. Once your pH is
close to 7, you can rerun GI tests to both reassess your gut
environment, as well as get a more complete picture of your
gut microbes. Supplements to help address low gut pH include
VitaOrgan, Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend, Buffer pH,
and/or low dose Potassium Bicarbonate or sodium
bicarbonate, depending on your need for sodium or potassium
on a HMT and UEE. Lack of B12 may also be a factor in causing
a low gut pH. Consider a HMT and UEE to assess cobalt levels
as an indicator of B12 levels, and support B12 as needed.
Because lithium plays a role in B12 transport, be sure both
lithium and potassium are in balance prior to adding extra
B12. Support for lithium can include Be Calm Spray, All in One
and Lithium Orotate. Tin may also cause an acidic pH, so rule
out high tin on a HMT and UTM. Also, acidic conditions may
increase iron levels, and iron increases bacterial virulence. A
HMT and UEE can be run to check iron. Consider SHMT
support and/or Lactoferrin to help with high iron. Acidosis can
occur secondary to mitochondrial dysfunction, so consider a
MAP test to rule out mitochondrial concerns. Acidosis can lead
to pancreatic issues, in which case you can consider SDE, FOK
capsules, and VitaOrgan. If the pH is very high, above pH 7,
rule out non-optimal anaerobes as an issue. They can be the
cause of increased pH. Consider Anaerobic X nucleotide blend,
IgY Immune capsules and the appropriate antibiotic herbs and
other support listed later in this chapter. High pH conditions in
your GI tract may limit copper uptake, which can impact the
processing of serotonin, dopamine and histamine, so consider
a neurotransmitter test, as well as a MAP test, to check on
neurotransmitter levels and their breakdown.
Overall basic approach to Natural herbs can be used to help limit growth of undesired
imbalanced and dysbiotic flora organisms, along with probiotics and supplements that
address biofilms. Consider the use of BOTH Naturomycin Spray
and Naturomycin capsules because they contain different
herbs that work together for optimal results. Naturomycin
Spray is a source of the following herbs: Echinacea, Cranberry,
Elderberry, lomantium, Dandelion Root, Skullcap, and
Goldenseal. Naturomycin capsules are a source of the
following herbs: berberis, Myrrh, Bay leaf, Cranberry, Neem,
Oregon Grape, Elderberry, olive leaf, Oregano, black walnut,
Juniper Berry, Garlic, Uva Ursi, Wormwood and pumpkin. The
use of grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE liquid)
along with these herbs adds another level of broad spectrum
support and may help balance the microbes in your gut. In
addition to the two Naturomycins and grapefruit seed extract
(GSE capsules or GSE liquid), consider BactiSolve to aid with
biofilm if you have no shellfish allergies. If you have shellfish
allergies, then consider low dose sources of EDTA including
MetalAway, EDTA capsules, EDTA soap and/or EDTA soak. In
addition to these more general suggestions for imbalanced
flora, consider the use of specific RNA Microbial nucleotide
blends and specific immunfactors (IMF). Since iron increases
bacterial virulence, consider Lactoferrin, AHCY/SHMT
compound, and/or SHMT Spray to help with iron.
Desulfovibrio piger This organism can produce hydrogen sulfide which can inhibit
mitochondrial function directly. A positive Hydrogen Sulfide
Urine Test may indicate severe gut dysbiosis, which can be due
to overgrowth of Desulfovibrio or Prevotella. Hydrogen sulfide
is known to inhibit mitochondria and block the oxygen
carrying capacity of hemoglobin. It also greatly increases the
toxicity of heavy metals by enhancing their absorption.
Hydrogen sulfide can also affect neurotransmitter levels, so
consider a NT test and a MAP test if consistently high levels of
Desulfovibrio or Prevotella are noted on a CSA test and GI
Effects test. This organism is an anaerobe. Consider
Naturomycin and IgY Immune capsules, be sure levels of
Molybdenum and B12 are adequate, or consider the use of
Black Bear Spray or Black Bear Drink. Consider BOTH
Naturomycin Spray and Naturomycin capsules because they
contain different herbs that work together for optimal results.
Naturomycin Spray is a source of the following herbs:
Echinacea, Cranberry, Elderberry, lomantium, Dandelion Root,
Skullcap, and Goldenseal. Naturomycin capsules are a source
of the following herbs: berberis, Myrrh, Bay leaf, Cranberry,
Neem, Oregon Grape, Elderberry, olive leaf, Oregano, black
walnut, Juniper Berry, Garlic, Uva Ursi, Wormwood and
pumpkin. The use of grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or
GSE liquid) along with these herbs adds another level of broad
spectrum support and may help balance the microbes in your
gut.
This may be a helpful organism, but if its levels are high, it may
be associated with symptoms and health problems. This
organism is an anaerobe. Consider Naturomycin and IgY
Immune capsules. Consider BOTH Naturomycin Spray and
Naturomycin capsules because they contain different herbs
that work together for optimal results. Naturomycin Spray is a
source of the following herbs: Echinacea, Cranberry,
Faecalibacterium prausnitzii Elderberry, lomantium, Dandelion Root, Skullcap, and
Goldenseal. Naturomycin capsules are a source of the
following herbs: berberis, Myrrh, Bay leaf, Cranberry, Neem,
Oregon Grape, Elderberry, olive leaf, Oregano, black walnut,
Juniper Berry, Garlic, Uva Ursi, Wormwood and pumpkin. The
use of grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE liquid)
along with these herbs adds another level of broad spectrum
support and may help balance the microbes in your gut.
Methanobrevibacter Smithii This organism is an anaerobe. High levels of this bacterium are
often found in people with multiple health conditions. It is
often high in those with anorexia, however,it may actually
help process polysaccharides. Consider Naturomycin and IgY
Immune capsules. Consider BOTH Naturomycin Spray and
Naturomycin capsules because they contain different herbs
that work together for optimal results. Naturomycin Spray is a
source of the following herbs: Echinacea, Cranberry,
Elderberry, lomantium, Dandelion Root, Skullcap, and
Goldenseal. Naturomycin capsules are a source of the
following herbs: berberis, Myrrh, Bay leaf, Cranberry, Neem,
Oregon Grape, Elderberry, olive leaf, Oregano, black walnut,
Juniper Berry, Garlic, Uva Ursi, Wormwood and pumpkin. The
use of grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE liquid)
along with these herbs adds another level of broad spectrum
support and may help balance the microbes in your gut.
Pseudoflavonifractor spp. Rhubarb and IgY Immune capsules may be a help. Consider the
use of BOTH Naturomycin Spray and Naturomycin
capsules because they contain different herbs that work
together for optimal results. Naturomycin Spray is a source of
the following herbs: Echinacea, Cranberry, Elderberry,
lomantium, Dandelion Root, Skullcap, and Goldenseal.
Naturomycin capsules are a source of the following herbs:
berberis, Myrrh, Bay leaf, Cranberry, Neem, Oregon Grape,
Elderberry, olive leaf, Oregano, black walnut, Juniper Berry,
Garlic, Uva Ursi, Wormwood and pumpkin. The use of
grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or GSE liquid) along with
these herbs creates additional broad spectrum support and
may help balance the microbes in your gut.
Streptococcus Aside from species of Strep that are known to cause infection,
some species of Strep are often included in probiotic mixes.
This program eliminates the use of these probiotics because
Streptococcus fermentation produces large amounts of lactic
acid. This may incline you to acidosis. Lactic acid is
metabolized in your liver by lactate dehydrogenase. High
levels of lactic acid may indicate bowel overgrowth with
Streptococcus. Fermentation produces two isomers of lactic
acid, L-lactate and D-lactate. D-lactate is the problem. The
body cannot metabolize D-lactate. It accumulates in
mitochondria and may cause inhibition of mitochondrial
energy production. For this reason, consider using MitoForce
when your levels of Strep are high. Some Strep species, such
as Strep pyogenes, contain components that are similar to
those of human cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle, heart
valve fibroblasts, and neuronal tissues. This can create
‘molecular mimicry’ so that your immune system may produce
antibodies that cross react with heart, joints and brain leading
to movement disorders. It is important to eliminate this
organism. Strep infection also increases your levels of TNF
alpha. High TNF alpha has been implicated in
Tourettes syndrome, OCD behavior, “stims”,
PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric
Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections),
perseverative speech, rheumatoid arthritis and leaky gut.
Consider STRX nucleotide blend, Garlic, Echinacea, rosemary,
Sage, barberry, Goldenseal, Oregon Grape, grapefruit seed
extract (GSE capsules or GSE liquid), Mycoceutics, Juniper
Berry, IMF 5 and IgY Immune capsules. Also, consider
AHCY/SHMT compound for DPPIV and as a source of
lactoferrin. Consider TNF nucleotide blend. Consider BOTH
Naturomycin Spray and Naturomycin capsules because they
contain different herbs that work together for optimal results.
Naturomycin Spray is a source of the following herbs:
Echinacea, Cranberry, Elderberry, lomantium, Dandelion Root,
Skullcap, and Goldenseal. Naturomycin capsules are a source
of the following herbs: berberis, Myrrh, Bay leaf, Cranberry,
Neem, Oregon Grape, Elderberry, olive leaf, Oregano, black
walnut, Juniper Berry, Garlic, Uva Ursi, Wormwood and
pumpkin. The use of grapefruit seed extract (GSE capsules or
GSE liquid) along with these herbs creates additional broad
spectrum support and may help balance the microbes in your
gut.
Additional Considerations
This test examines your stool for the antigenic components of the bacteria H. pylori that may be
detected when you have an active H. Pylori infection.
H.pylori has been associated with ulcers, acid reflux and cancer. My experience has been that
there is a particularly high incidence of H. Pylori infection in children with autism, and that up to
one third of the adult population may also be infected. If you have acid reflux, consistently low
gut pH, high suberic acid on a MAP test, along with high arginine on a UAA, high level bismuth
excretion on mineral tests in the absence of any bismuth support, then you should consider an H.
Pylori Stool Antigen Test.
Wide swings in gut pH on either contemporaneously run or repeat CSA/GI Effects tests, such as
a pH of 5 on one test and pH of 7.5 or 8 on another, may be an indirect indication of H. Pylori
infection. While H. Pylori is initially attracted to low pH conditions in your GI tract, once it
becomes firmly established, it produces the compound urease, which increases gut pH so it can
thrive. This may cause wide swings in the pH of your GI tract on testing.
Pylori is able to sequester itself between the mucosal cells lining your stomach. There it is given
additional protection by the thick layer of mucus that lines the inside of your stomach. As a
result, the antigenic components of H. Pylori may not be detected. If active H. Pylori infection is
present, it should be possible to identify these antigens with this test. Therefore, a positive
antigen test is significant; however, a negative test does not rule out the presence of this
organism.
A urease breath test can also be run through your doctor that indirectly indicates the presence of
H.pylori. If H.pylori infection is established, and the organism is making urease in sufficient
amounts, then the breath test will indicate its presence.
Ideally, a DNA probe test should also be run. This test would rule out the presence of H. Pylori
that has not stimulated antigen formation by your immune system, but from which the DNA is
able to be detected. I continue to search for a DNA test to be run in conjunction with this antigen
test in order to offer you a comprehensive assessment of the H. Pylori that your body may
harbor.
This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for your
Result
consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as always.
H.pylor The approach I suggest for consideration with your doctor is designed to interfere with a number
i of aspects of H. pylori function. This approach addresses the excess mucus that enables H. pylori
positiv to remain undetected in your GI tract, and makes the organism more accessible to anti-infective
e agents. It includes supplements that may limit H. pylori growth, those that generate a healthy
antigen level of inflammatory mediators, and balancing nutrients such as carnitine that H. pylori may
test compromise. Suggestions for consideration for supplementation with natural supports can
include HELX nucleotide blend, Bowel Support nucleotide blend, cycling on and off Peptimycin,
and Potassium Bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate. The choice of sodium or potassium is
dependent upon your levels of these minerals on a HMT and UEE. Consider low dose Hydroxy
B12 and Adenosyl B12 once lithium is in balance, in addition to Potassium, Magnesium, and
Biotin. Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend, Buffer pH, and VitaOrgan work to balance the
gut pH. Also consider Carnitine, and low doses of both Ion Transport compound and Ion
Transport nucleotide blend. Although the natural H.pylori approach presented above suggests
the use of multiple supplements/herbs simultaneously, the same is true for a traditional medical
approach to this organism. H.pylori is difficult to eradicate, so it requires a number of compounds
over time, and a concerted effort to address this microbial imbalance. Standard medical
approaches can be employed with the help of your doctor. These traditional approaches involve
the use of multiple antibiotics and additional pharmaceuticals, including proton pump inhibitors
and a source of bismuth and bicarbonate. For standard approaches see:
http://www.globalrph.com/antibiotic/hpylori.htm and http://www.uptodate.com/contents/
treatment-regimens-for-helicobacter-pyloriIt has been observed that the number of individuals
with autism testing positive for the bacterium Helicobacter pylori is much higher than would be
expected. One third of the adult population is reported to harbor H.pylori. In contrast, this
number is generally not as high in the pediatric population. I have found that the autistic
population is as high as 50 percent and that has been found by others to be in that range too.
Changes in the mucous layer environment in children with autism may be a predisposing factor
that accounts for this observed increase in H. pylori in that population.Helicobacter pylori is a
Gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacterium that lives in the mucous layer of the stomach and
duodenum. This ulcer-causing gastric pathogen is able to colonize the harsh acidic environment
of the human stomach. Although the stomach is protected from its own gastric juice by a thick
layer of mucus that covers the stomach lining, H. pylori takes advantage of this protection by
living in the mucus lining itself. In the mucus lining, H. pylori survives the stomach’s acidic
conditions by producing urease, an enzyme that catalyzes hydrolysis of urea into ammonia and
bicarbonate. As strong bases, ammonia and bicarbonate produce a cloud of alkalinity around the
bacterium, making it impossible for the body’s normal defenses such as T cells, natural killer
cells, and other white blood cells, to get to it in the gastric mucus layer.
Because H. pylori burrows into the mucus layer of the stomach and is very persistent
there, it is difficult to get a positive test for it even when it is present. In addition, H.
pylori can remain for long periods of time and is extremely difficult to eradicate. Many
factors that have been identified as playing a role in autism are related to H. pylori,
including problems with gluten and casein, breakdown of glutathione, excess stomach
acid, and the high norepinephrine seen in ADD and ADHD. H. pylori affects
neurotransmitters and brain neurochemistry. H. pylori infection increases the incidence of
food allergy by facilitating the passage of intact proteins across the gastric epithelial
barrier. H. pylori depletes secretin, which has previously been reported to have positive
impacts in some cases of speech delay.
Arginine makes urea to neutralize stomach acid, or, alternately, makes an intermediate
such as nitric oxide that relaxes blood vessels. When H. pylori infection is present, it
induces arginine to produce urea as opposed to nitric oxide because urea provides the
alkalinity necessary for its survival. In this way, H. pylori depletes arginine through its
overuse of the enzyme arginase. The depletion of arginine impacts the mitochondria,
reducing mitochondrial energy production from glucose.
When H. pylori infection is present, it changes the way important phospholipids are
positioned in the cell membrane. Phospholipid orientation has been described as playing a
role in ADD/ADHD, as well as in immune system signaling. H. pylori also decreases
levels of B12 in the body; decreases iron levels; increases ammonia and taurine; and can
produce glaucoma in young individuals that resolves when the H. pylori is treated.
OXIDATIVE DAMAGE
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage lipid, protein, and nucleic acid in your cells by
oxidizing them. This increases the chemical stress in your body called oxidative stress. A result
of oxidative stress is damage to your DNA, which produces 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-
OHdG), which is excreted in your urine. Your level of oxidative stress can be determined by
running an Oxidative Damage Test.
Numerous articles and research studies have indicated that urinary 8-OHdG is not only a marker
for generalized, cellular oxidative stress, but might also be associated with a high risk for cancer,
including bladder and prostate cancer. In addition, it has been associated with other health
conditions, including atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis, atopic dermatitis, and
diabetes. Evidence suggests that higher levels of 8-OHdG are also seen in cases of chronic
fatigue, fibromyalgia and depression.
Elevated levels of urinary 8-OHdG have been detected in patients with various types of cancers.
Increased levels of modified DNA and 8-OHdG have been found in human atherosclerotic
plaque. Elevated urinary 8-OHdG and leukocyte DNA were also detected in diabetic patients
with hyperglycemia, or elevated blood sugar, and the level of urinary 8-OHdG in diabetes
correlated with the severity of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy.
Resul This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are
t for your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner,
as always.
8
OHdG
CHAPTER 9