Patient Update December 24, 2006

Exciting Information... Finally located a company that may be able to
help us at www.neurorelief.com. They seem to understand the need for
testing and addressing deficiencies and food allergies.

Food Allergy Testing Link http://www.neurorelief.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=241&Itemid=46

Basic Info http://www.neurorelief.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=7&Itemid=49

We will definitely be contacting them regarding getting Patient's levels tested and devising a more targeted therapy.

note: important supplements: L-Theanine, Taurine, L-Carnosine

--gjh - very excited!

Patient Update December 23, 2006

SW reported Patient doing well in AM.

Phone call with Patient at 6PM revealed morning dizziness, dizziness after lunch. 2 Neuro Optimizer pills taken at lunch, 1 at dinner, 1 before bed. (Discontinued, see below)

Family members living with Patient aren't interested in tracking progress and have decided to not contribute to the record, despite repeated
requests. Therefor, each update posted is information gathered as a
result of a phone call with Patient. Relying on the information provided by the Patient only is not providing an accurate record on some days.

Neuro Optimizer contains Acetyl L-Carnitine, which has warnings for seizure prone individuals. For this reason, we may need to halt Neuro Optimizer if the dizziness continues. (UPDATE 2-24-2007 Neuro Optimizer has been discontinued for this Patient due to elevated levels of paranoia AND seizure possibly caused by L-Carnatine in the combined supplement. Negative effects were seen within 48 hours or less, tested twice.)

I will likely introduce some testing of the Taurine blends found at neurorelief.com and I have new found hope we will eventually get something in the protocol that stabilizes the Patient.

--gjh

Patient Update December 22, 2006

Patient started Dr. recommended Neuro Optimizer supplement. Took two with evening meal.

Patient Update December 19th 2006

Patient sounded alert and normal (7:40PM) and started conversation. Reported dizziness after getting out of bed. Exercised in AM. Turkey and Cheese sandwhich. Pumpkin pie today after lunch. Had spaghetti for dinner

--gjh.

Patient Update December 18th 2006

Spoke to at 9:00 PM, Patient sounded very tired, alertness increased slightly during 30 minute conversation. Family reported psychosis in the early evening which included voices and banging on something. Patient reported having cereal in morning, banana, spaghetti for dinner.

--gjh

Patient Update December 17th 2006

Patient felt light-headed shortly after consuming decaf coffee with a small amount of sugar.

Patient reported voices in walls, concern about some vehicles in the early evening.

Patient Update December 16th

Patient experienced minor paranoia at 4:45pm. Patient had not eaten anything since noon.

Patient Update December 15, 2006

Patient experienced minor psychosis late afternoon and revealed that a candy bar had been eaten an hour before. Discussed with Patient the possibility of sugar metabolism problem and requested elimination of unnecessary, excessive sugar.

Neurologist conference called at 4PM. Decision was made to schedule Endocrinologist before starting any new seizure medication. Family has observed Patient has been seizure free, with no complaints of dizziness.

Decision was made to include DMG supplement in protocol. Patient has been visiting family, away from home for past 4 days in effort to reduce stress factors of psychosis.

Endocrinologist will be consulted Monday regarding appointment.

--gjh

Dimethylglycine (DMG) links

http://www.autismwebsite.com/ARI/newsletter/dmg1.htm

(to be udated later)

Hyperthyroidism

This link has information of what to look for in blood tests to see presence of hyperthyroidism:

http://www.emedicine.com/NEURO/topic371.htm

Supplements and Epilepsy

Check this link out when more time is available.
Touches on supplements and nutrients recommended for seizures.
Also states the following:
"About 10 to 20% of epilepsy patients do not respond to drug therapy and may require surgery."

http://www.vitacost.com/science/hn/Concern/Epilepsy.htm#Condition-Symptoms

Magnesium and the Brain

"Magnesium Calms the Brain
People don't need to become severely deficient in magnesium for the brain to become hyperactive. A new study confirms earlier reports that a marginal magnesium intake overexcites the brain's neurons and results in less coherence--creating cacaphony rather than symphony--according to electroencephalogram (EEG) measurements. During half of the six-month study, 13 women consumed 115 milligrams of magnesium daily--or about 40 percent of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). During the other half, they got 315 mg daily--a little more than the 280 mg recommended for women. After only six weeks on the marginal intake, EEG readings showed significant differences in brain function.

"Magnesium is the fourth most abundant element in the brain and is essential in regulating central nervous system excitability. Clinical studies of people severely deficient in this essential element have reported epilepsy-type convulsions, dizziness and muscle tremors or twitching as well as many psychological symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, confusion, depression, apathy, loss of appetite and insomnia. While the marginal intake in this study did not produce such severe symptoms, it did hype brain activity.

"This is the first experimental study in which magnesium intakes were tightly controlled and EEG measurements were analyzed by computer so they could be statistically compared. Good sources of magnesium include whole grains, nuts, peanut butter, cottonseed, peanut and soybean flours, green leafy vegetables and spices. It's better to get magnesium from foods rather than supplements because high doses have a laxative effect--the body's way of preventing toxic levels."
http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/np/fnrb/fnrb1095.htm

Sugar Cravings

"When any carbohydrate is eaten, it is broken down into glucose by the body and is known as blood sugar. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that takes the glucose from the blood and brings it into the body’s cells where it can be used for energy. However, if there is too much glucose in the blood from eating too many refined carbohydrates, then the body’s cells can stop responding to the insulin. This is called carbohydrate intolerance or insulin resistance.

"The problem does not stop there, because the glucose can not get into the cells for energy and the cells essentially starve. This has profound effects on the body, especially the brain, whose only source of energy is glucose. If the brain is not getting the necessary energy, it signals the body to crave more dietary carbohydrates. This begins a vicious cycle of low energy, sugar cravings, and increased consumption of dietary carbohydrates.

"But poor nutrition is not the only cause of this cycle. Chronic stress is also responsible. When the body is under continued stress, the stress hormone cortisol is continually produced. One of cortisol’s effects is to increase insulin production. This produces the same effect as eating too many carbohydrates.

"Carbohydrate intolerance can directly lead to obesity, diabetes, heart disease or stroke. But the good news is that the vicious cycle of carbohydrate intolerance can be broken through dietary and stress management."
http://carolinanewswire.com/news/News.cgi?database=columns.db&command=viewone&id=258&op=t

Patient will see Dr. Margolis on Thursday.

Supplements for Seizure Control

Here's a post I found regarding Diet and Supplements for Seizure control. - (UPDATE) we HAVE changed our nutri-supplement protocol for dealing with seizures, we are still researching and making adjustments but, at this time we feel strongly that Kavinace was instrumental in controlling seizures for Patient.

The Post...

"
THE PROGRAM
Vitamins & Supplements prescribed by a Nutritionist MD
Eliminated Food Allergens (Grains, Dairy, Beans, Seeds, Peanuts, Sweeteners, Alcohols)
Along with the AEDs (Tegretol XR & Depakote ER), the anti-depressant (Prozac), and the anti-psychotic (Respirdal). {YIKES DRUGS!}

MY DIET
Eggs (hard boiled, scrambled, fried)
Fruit (raw)
Vegetables (raw & steemed)
Potatoes (mashed, boiled, baked, fried)
A Variety of Cooked Meats (Beef, Turkey, Chicken, Clams)
Juices (fresh squeezed)
Water (bottled or purified)
Prescribed Supplements & Medications

VITAMINS
B6 (Pyridoxal-5-Phospate)
Zinc
Evening Primrose Oil
Taurine w/p copper
Vitamin D3
Magnesium Gyconate
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Folate
B12 (methylcobalamin)
Calcium Citrate
L-Tyrosine
L-Lysine
5-HTP
Potassium Iodide
Magnesium Citrate
Chromium Citrate
Molybdenum Citrate
Potassium Citrate
Boron Citrate
Vanadium Citrate
Digestive Enzymes
Multi-vitamin w/ lots of vegetables
As well as Chinese herbal & homeopathic remedies"(1.)

(1.) http://brain.hastypastry.net/forums/showthread.php?t=2727

L-Carnosine

One of the previous posts refers to L-Carnosine. This post will be updated with related info on L-Carnosine.

http://www.ethosplan.com/l-carnosine-information.asp

http://www.cherab.org/information/dietaryeffects/carnosine.html

http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=14508390

http://www.1stvitality.co.uk/az/carnosine/carnosine_an_antioxidant.htm

http://www.1stvitality.co.uk/az/carnosine/carnosine.htm

--gjh

AMPAKINE Structures

I'll reaserch what I can find on AMPAKINE Structures as they relate to seizures (not SZ)

--gjh

Patient Update December 11, 2006

Patient experienced "Keppra Anger" and psychosis side effects today. Patient was belligerent and almost violent. Made emergency call to Dr's office and spoke with neurologist. Result - Patient must stop Keppra today, evening dose was not taken. Side effects appeared about 4 days after starting medication (a couple pills were skipped due to poor memory and other emergencies attended by family. :( The dose was 250mg AM 250mg PM. Follow up call scheduled for Friday.

Patient had not had any seizures/dizziness since starting Keppra.

We think that we should see an endocrinologist and confirm we haven't missed something. Patient was said to have been hyperthyroid in the past.

--gjh

Patient Update December 9, 2006

Patient had no dizzyness after lunch (rare), second day on drug Keppra. Noticed Patient speaking slower, perhaps both are indication that drug is already affecting GABA receptors.

No dizziness reported after evening meal.

--gjh

Aspartame Poisoning (Equal®, Nutrasweet® and Spoonful®) - seizures, memory loss, methanol poisoning

Whoops! YIKES! Did not know that! I suggest you read these links.

http://www.sweetpoison.com/aspartame-information.html

http://www.mercola.com/article/aspartame/hidden_dangers.htm

http://www.holisticmed.com/aspartame/adverse.txt

http://nccn.net/~wwithin/aspartame.htm

http://www.aspartamesafety.com/

http://aspartametruth.com/aspartamedotorg/

Questions to ask doctor

Should we have more tests taken to determine if patient has epilepsy?

What is Patient's measured CSF glutamate level presently? (1.)

What are Patient's compared DHEA to Cortisol Levels? (& melatonin)(2.)

What are Patient's food allergies, Dairy, Gluten, Sugar?

Is Patient Hypoglycemic? (3.)

(1.) http://www.worldwidehealthcenter.net/category.php?prod=659

(2.) http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/links/doi/10.1111/j.0013-9580.2005.59704.x/abs/

(3.) http://www.medhelp.org/forums/neuro/archive/14681.html

Patient Update December 8, 2006

Patient began Keppra in AM Experienced minor dizziness again after eating lunch.

Patient may be experiencing transient ischemic attack (TIA), or "mini-stroke" - dizzy spells have been how Patient described the experience. However, on at least two of these events the Patient fell to the ground and was seen shaking just before falling.

Patient's mother also had these at similar age. Patient also had seizures as a baby during high fever.

Patient Update December 7, 2006

Neurologist prescribed Keppra for 2 weeks.

Researching L-Glutamine, GABA, Zinc, ALA as mentioned previously.

Patient needs tests for levels: zinc to copper (update later)

--gjh

Sleep-related Epilepsy

"In a review of 100 consecutive cases of nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy [16], 28% occurred in sleep stages 3 or 4, and only 3% during REM. Clear epileptiform abnormalities on routine EEG occurred in less than half of patients. Forty-two patients showed a clear ictal discharge on polysomnography."(1.)

"O'Regan et al. [19] studied 25 children with an acquired disorder of communication and seizures, but not strictly meeting criteria for LKS. EEGs were uniformly epileptiform, usually (16 of 25 patients) worsening with sleep. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was typically normal, but single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) was abnormal (22 of 25 patients). Most were considered to have a receptive aphasia. Language deficits have been hypothesized to result from the persistent epileptic discharges, as evidenced by hypometabolism on SPECT [19]."(1.)

(1.)Sleep-related Epilepsy
Carl W. Bazil, MD, PhD
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports 2003, 3:167-172
Current Science, Inc. ISSN 1528-4042
Copyright © 2006 by Current Science, Inc.
http://www.current-reports.com/article.cfm?PubID=NR03-2-3-01&Type=Article&KeyWords=

Seizure Recovery Story - a natural approach

"Absorbing as much of the information as she could, she decided that she wanted a change for her son. She found the scientific information referenced in the article, “absolutely amazing”, and she was determined to try a natural approach. On her own she began giving her son supplements that were discussed in the article. She started him on 1000 mg of omega-3, 400 IUs of vitamin E, 500 mg L-Carnosine, 500 mg L-Glutamine, selenium, Vitamin C, zinc, and B-complex."(1.)

"She made changes in his diet, eliminating dairy and wheat and all processed food, which Jonathan frequently ate. “Now that I look back at it he had an awful diet.” She switched to all organic food and began using filtered water. She also started reducing the amount of Jonathan’s medication."(1.)

"Within two weeks Jonathan started showing some amazing changes. Denise noticed improved eye contact and increased “clarity”. He suddenly became more focused and articulate. He had more patience playing games and wasn’t as angry. Jonathan also began singing, something that he never really did before. Denise was happy and surprised, “He’s actually singing! Oh my God he’s singing!”(1.)

(1.) http://www.healthsentinel.com/org_news.php?id=111&title=Reversing%20autism%20and%20seizures%20?%20Jonathan?s%20story&event=org_news_print_list_item

--gjh

Glutamine and GABA

"The action of the heart is under considerable control of the nervous system, and the pathways involved in the neural control of cardiovascular function happen to rely on glutamate and GABA. If the brain has a faulty glutamine / glutamate / GABA metabolism, we can expect the development of cardiovascular dysfunction as well. In addition, glutamine serves as a substrate for the synthesis of a special type of beta-endorphin, glycyl-l-glutamine. This dipeptide appears to be important for the regulation of blood pressure and prevention of cardiorespiratory depression. Glycyl-l-glutamine is also important for the immune response, since it enhances the activity of the natural killer (NK) cells."(1.)

"The synthesis of glutamine protects the body, and the brain in particular, from ammonia toxicity. In fact, the synthesis of glutamine from glutamate is the key pathway for detoxifying ammonia. Excess ammonia is a crucial factor in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, since ammonia interferes with the oxidative metabolism of neurons and thus reduces the production of ATP, our "energy molecule." In addition, ammonia gives rise to very harmful nitrogen-based free radicals."(1.)

"In the brain, glutamine is a substrate for the production of both excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters (glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid, popularly known as GABA). Glutamine is also an important source of energy for the nervous system. If the brain is not receiving enough glucose, it compensates by increasing glutamine metabolism for energy-hence the popular perception of glutamine as "brain food" and its use as a pick-me-up. Glutamine users often report more energy, less fatigue and better mood."(1.)

"Glutamine also plays a part in maintaining proper blood glucose levels and the right pH range. The body has an exquisite mechanism for maintaining pH homeostasis. If the pH of the blood is too acidic, more glutamine is directed to the kidneys, where a certain type of glutamine results in the release of bicarbonate ions to correct acidosis. If the pH is too alkaline, more glutamine is sent to the liver, where a different kind of metabolism releases hydrogen ions to correct alkalosis."(1.)

"And there is still more. Due to its dependence on sodium transport, glutamine is one of the amino acids that control the volume of water in the cells, and the osmotic pressure (osmoregulation) in various tissues. Glutamine also plays a vital part in the control of blood sugar. It helps prevent hypoglycemia , since it is easily converted to glucose when blood sugar is low. In addition, glutamine regulates the expression of certain genes, including those that govern certain protective enzymes, and helps regulate the biosynthesis of DNA and RNA. Recently it has been discovered that glutamine is important for the cardiovascular system as well."(1.)

"The glutamine cycle in the brain is simple and elegant. Glutamine readily crosses the blood-brain barrier. Neurons take up glutamine and convert it to glutamate or GABA (through the additional step of decarboxylating the glutamate). Some glutamate is used for energy, some for synthesis of glutathione and niacin, some as neurotransmitter. After either glutamate or GABA are released into the synaptic junction, the supportive cells called glia, with their high supply of glutamine synthase, take up the glutamate or GABA and resynthesize glutamine, detoxifying ammonia in the process. The glutamate that is not converted to glutamine is used by the glia as a source of energy, and also to produce energy nutrients alanine and alpha-ketoglutarate, which are then released to the neurons."(1.)

"If excess glutamine accumulates through the action of the glia, the brain donates it to the body. Normally, however, very little glutamine is released by the brain, in contrast to muscle and adipose tissue, which donate a lot. In the brain, it's pretty much an internal affair. What we see is the glutamine glutamate GABA glutamine cycle."(1.)

"If the glia are dysfunctional due to reduced aerobic metabolism, or the release and/or activity of the glial glutamine synthase is inhibited in any way (free-radical damage, toxins, certain drugs), not only glutamate, but GABA as well might accumulate in excess, possibly causing lethargy and cognitive dysfunction. It has been suggested that this too is one of the phenomena we see in the aging brain. On the one hand, glutamate excitotoxicity damages or destroys some neurons, leading to deficiencies in memory and learning; on the other hand, excess of GABA can lead to lethargy. At the same time, excess ammonia, not detoxified through sufficient glutamine synthesis by the glia, leads to further neural damage."(1.)

"An interesting development related to glutamate is the increasing use of ampakines, a new class of drugs for Alzheimer's disease. Apparently an important factor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease is stroke or a series of undiagnosed mini-strokes. During stroke, the dying neurons release glutamate, which then unfortunately can cause more neuron death. Furthermore, ischemic episodes damage the glutamate receptors, so that later the glutamate can't work as a neurotransmitter. Without glutamate, there is no memory and no learning. Ampakines amplify the glutamate signal through a yet unknown mechanism, possibly by rebuilding glutamate receptors. In healthy people and in animals, ampakines have been shown to enhance cognitive performance, and can thus be classified as "smart drugs."(1.)

Glutamate

"One current hypothesis is that glutamate is also deficient in schizophrenia, though probably many neurotransmitters are out of balance in neurological disorders."(1.)

"At normal physiological levels, glutamate is beneficial and safe. It is an indispensable neurotransmitter that the brain produces according to need. When the central nervous system is aroused, surprisingly enough we do not see higher glucose consumption. Instead, some of the glucose is converted to glutamate. The other source of glutamate is, of course, glutamine. An abundant supply of glutamine makes it easier for the brain to maintain neurotransmitter balance, by increasing the production of glutamate when required for alertness, learning and memory, and the production of GABA when its inhibitory properties are needed. In fact, some people report feeling more centered and calm after they start taking glutamine. Others report a lifting of depression."(1.)

"Glutamate is our chief excitatory neurotransmitter. It is essential for learning and both short-term and long-term memory. Problems arise only if the normal process of glutamate removal and conversion to glutamine malfunctions and an excess of this excitatory neurotransmitter builds up in the synaptic junctions. Excess glutamate causes excessive influx of calcium ions into the neurons, causing excitotoxicity and ultimately even death of the neurons. It also destroys glutathione, a crucial brain-protective antioxidant. Low levels of brain glutathione are associated with neurodegenerative disorders. Glutathione depletion further leads to neuronal death."(1.)

"Under what conditions do we see excess levels of glutamate at the synapses? Not surprisingly, we see evidence of damage associated with excess glutamate in Alzheimer's disease patients, AIDS patients (the AIDS virus inhibits glutamate uptake by the glia), cancer patients (according to one hypothesis, cancer basically starts with brain dysfunction), and in those who have suffered a severe brain injury. Very high fever or artificially induced hyperthermia can also result in excess glutamate release, leading to seizures."(1.)

"GLUTAMINE--As well as cysteine it is recommended to take the other two aminos that make up glutathione as supplemental glycine and glutamine. Both glutamate and glutamine are forms of glutamic acid, the body easily converts the glutamine to glutamic acid. Glutamic acid readily passes the blood brain barrier and is considered a "brain fuel."(2.)

"In the brain, glutamine is a substrate for the production of both excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters (glutamate and GABA). Glutamine is also an important source of energy for the nervous system. Glutamic acid and cysteine are necessary for glucose regulation, and can decrease cravings for alcohol and sugar. If the brain is not receiving enough glucose, it compensates by increasing glutamine metabolism for energy. Glutamine users often report more energy, less fatigue and better mood.(sic.)"(2.)

"Glutamine is the most abundant single amino acid in the blood and in the muscle tissue comprising up to 60% of the amino acid pool in skeletal muscle; and is manufactured and released primarily by the skeletal muscle. Because it is important in the rapid growth of cells more is needed during stress or illness. Glutamine is utilized as a source of energy and for nucleotide synthesis by all rapidly dividing cells, such as the cells of the intestinal lining and certain immune cells thus without sufficient glutamine, the intestines atrophy and the immune function breaks down. Glutamine therapy was found to improve intestinal permeability in AIDS patients."(2.)

"Glutamine serves as a nitrogen donor and a carbon donor, and is thus an important muscle-building amino acid. Glutamine's unique structure, containing two nitrogen side chains makes it responsible for 35% of the nitrogen that gets into the muscle cell. It is anticatabolic, meaning it regulates protein synthesis in muscles, sparing muscle tissue and helps replenish muscle glycogen after exercise. It is also involved in glycogen synthesis in the liver and is a building block of many other amino acids. Glutamine can increase growth hormone levels by 43% thereby slowing aging. It also improves lymphocyte proliferation. Further more it reduces insulin resistance and high blood sugar which also counteracts aging."(2.)

"The amino acid glutamine strengthens the cell lining of both the small and large intestines, provides metabolic fuel for gut cells, brain cells, immune macrophages and lymphocytes. Glutamine has been reported to be helpful in reducing "leaky gut" and "brain fog". Glutamine is important as an energy source for our bodies, and is the primary fuel for the upper intestinal tract. It aids the immune system by increasing the integrity of the intestinal lining preventing toxins and pathogens from entering the bloodstream. Glutamine is also a component of folic acid. There is an association between folic acid deficiency and seizure. Disruptions of the intestinal lining may cause folate deficiency, and consequently lead to seizures."(2.)

"The small intestine uses 40% of the glutamine in the body, it being the primary amino acid for the cells that line the small intestine; it nourishes and repairs them. Insufficient glutamine increases the permeability of the gut leading to leaky gut syndrome. This lets in toxins, pathogens and partially digested molecules into the blood increasing the load on the liver. The large molecules entering the bloodstream stimulate antibody production, and then the liver subsequently has to cope with the waste products of antibodies. Which again increases the demands made on glutathione and other antioxidants."(2.)

"GABA--GABA is made from the amino acid Glutamic acid (Glutamine or Glucose). It reduces anxiety, elevates the pain threshold reduces the blood pressure and heart rate and reduces compulsive behavior. GABA promotes fat loss and stimulates the production of Human Growth Hormone (HGH). GABA can be taken as a supplement (L-Glutamine), produces a calming effect on people who struggle with temporal lobe symptoms like temper, irritability, and anxiety."(2.)

"GLYCINE--Glycine and glucose are the two most common amino acids in the body. Glycine is the simplest amino acid and is the only protein forming amino acid without a center of chirality, that is it is nonpolar. Because glycine has such a small side chain it can fit into many places where no other amino acid can. Hence it is the internal amino acid of a collagen helix, thus collagen is about one-third glycine. Most proteins however only contain a small quantity of glycine."(2.)

"Like GABA, Glycine activates Cl- ion conductance resulting in a hyperpolarization of the neuronal membrane and an antagonism of other depolarizing stimuli. This membrane hyperpolarization makes glycine the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brainstem and spinal cord, where it participates in a variety of motor and sensory functions. However in the forebrain it functions in an excitatory way by promoting the actions of the major excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate at the NMDA receptors. Other amino acids, including alanine and taurine, also activate glycine receptors, but with lower potency."(2.)

"Glycine may increase acetylcholine neurotransmission in the hippocampus, the memory center of the brain. This factor could be involved in having "ones life pass before ones eyes" during near death experiences. Increases blood sugar and Growth Hormone. Vitamin B6, magnesium and dimethylglycine are antiseizure and have increased speech in autistic children. Found in many foods, glycine is also synthesized in the human body where, among other functions it helps improve glycogen storage. It is utilized in the synthesis of hemoglobin, collagen and glutathione, and facilitates the amelioration of high blood fat and uric acid levels."(2.)

"It is essential for learning and both short-term and long-term memory. Glutamate, as a neurotransmitter, exists in the extracellular fluid only in very, very small concentrations--no more than 8 to 12 FM (micromoles/liter). When the concentration of this transmitter rises above this level, the neurons begin to fire abnormally. At higher concentrations, the cells undergo a specialized process of delayed cell death known as excitotoxicity; that is, they are excited to death. Some individuals may be especially sensitive and develop severe symptoms and even die suddenly from cardiac irritability, but in most instances the effects are subtle and develop over a long period of time. But, it is free glutamate that is the culprit. Bound glutamate, found naturally in foods, is less dangerous because it is slowly broken down and absorbed by the gut so that the tissues can utilize it, especially muscles, before toxic concentrations can build up. Infusions of MSG are used in mainstream clinical practice to reduce high ammonia levels in the blood (hyperammonemia) by stimulating the conversion of glutamate to glutamine. Both glutamate (as MSG) and glutamine are used by conventional medicine for treating several very serious conditions. Glutamine supplementation has shown better neural energy production and better neuro-transmitter balance are typical results, with improved mental performance and a sense of well-being. The glutamine cycle in the brain is simple and elegant. Glutamine readily crosses the blood-brain barrier. Neurons take up glutamine and convert it to glutamate or GABA (through the step of decarboxylating the glutamate). Some glutamate is used for energy, some for synthesis of glutathione and niacin, some as neurotransmitter."(3.)

"After either glutamate or GABA are released into the synaptic junction, the supportive cells called glia (more specifically, astroglia or astrocytes)--the most abundant type of cell in the central nervous system--with their high supply of glutamine synthase, take up the glutamate or GABA and resynthesize glutamine, detoxifying ammonia in the process. The glutamate that's not converted is used by the glia as a source of energy, and also to produce energy nutrients alanine and alpha-ketoglutarate, which are then released to the neurons. If excess glutamine accumulates through the action of the glia, the brain donates it to the body. Normally, however, the brain, releases very little glutamine, in contrast to muscle and adipose tissue, which donate a lot. During a stroke, ischemic episodes damage the glutamate receptors, so that later the glutamate can't work as a neurotransmitter. Without glutamate, there is no memory and no learning. Glutamate is also deficient in schizophrenia. It's an indispensable neurotransmitter produced in the brain according to need. When the central nervous system is aroused, we don't see higher glucose consumption. Instead, some of the glucose is converted to glutamate. An abundant supply of glutamine makes it easier for the brain to maintain neurotransmitter balance, by increasing the production of glutamate when required for alertness, learning and memory, and the production of GABA when its inhibitory properties are needed."(3.)

"What is the significance of the empty stomach?
Normally the blood-brain barrier protects the brain from excessive
amounts of any single amino acid. However that protection is reduced
dramatically when the amino acid is taken on an empty stomach in
isolation from other amino acids. In fact it is because of the natural
protection of the blood-brain barrier that it is considered necessary
to take glutamine on an empty stomach for purposes of stimulating the
release of growth hormone. If the glutamine is taken as part of
complete proteins, with a meal or on a full stomach, then it will be
forced to compete with other nutrients and amino acids for entrance to
the brain. But that competition between amino acids for entrance to
the brain is the normal state of nature; it ensures that no single
amino acid will flood the brain in isolation. Glutamine works for
stimulating GH release only if we intentionally defeat mother nature's
built-in protections, which in itself is an indication that some risks
are involved."(4.)

"Another concern is that the brain is more vulnerable to excitotoxicity
when the body is fasting. The brain derives most of its energy from
glucose (sugar), and it needs that energy to defend against any sudden
increase in glutamate. The worst time to take large amounts of
glutamine is in the morning before breakfast on an empty stomach, when
the body has been fasting overnight and blood sugar is low."(4.)

(1.) http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag99/sep99-report3.html

(2.) http://biologyofkundalini.com/article.php?story=SupplementList

(3.) Glutamine http://www.tuberose.com/Inflammation_Damage_&_Repair.html

(4.) http://groups.google.com/group/misc.fitness.weights/browse_thread/thread/c86779291cfa2781/a99488e2b334728c%23a99488e2b334728c

--gjh

Patient Update December 6, 2006

Brief: Patient diagnosed with seizures on the EEG test - details not yet known- appointment scheduled.

We are busy researching GABA, ZINC, etc.. This post is a note pad for some links that need follow up by the Family. We've read seizure can produce effects of SZ.

http://www.sfn.org/index.cfm?pagename=brainBriefings_epilepsyAndGABA

"When GABA is low in the brain, impulsive behaviors are not inhibited (stopped) by logical or reasonable thinking... Low levels of GABA are also associated with epilepsy or seizure disorders.... Low levels of GABA make it easy for the brain to develop seizures which is why seizures are part of the withdrawal syndrome for many substances that work with GABA such as alcohol and tranquilizers. Substances that artificially maintain a high level of GABA, when stopped, create a dramatic drop in GABA levels, thus creating the risk for withdrawal seizures due to the chemical instability that is created."
http://www.enotalone.com/article/4118.html

http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v376/n6536/abs/376174a0.html

--gjh

Patient has experienced "tonic seizures." There's a possibility that patient's drooping of the eyes is a tonic seizure. Falling episodes could be seizure or low blood pressure.
Patient has also experienced "sensory seizures" that involve having strange tastes in mouth, hearing voices, feeling physical touch, experiencing smells that don't exist, visible hallucinations.
It is not clear yet whether patient's seizures are classified as epileptic or nonepileptic.

--sw

"Psychological causes of NES (non epileptic seizures)

Any experiences that we have, whether good or bad, can have a deep and long-lasting effect on us. Everyone has their own way of dealing with their experiences. For some people, the NES they have are their brain's way of dealing with past painful experiences . . . The causes of NES may be past experiences such as bereavements, divorce, abuse or other emotional difficulties. On-going stress may also cause them, such as work, family or money worries. Some people may not know the cause of their seizures. Some people may not think stress is a possible cause as it may be a normal part of their life."

"NES may be part of post-traumatic stress disorder - a condition that sometimes happens after a traumatic or stressful event."

"A diagnosis of NES means that the seizures the person has are not epileptic. Because the seizures are not epileptic, there is no need to take anti-epileptic medication. Unless someone has both epileptic and non-epileptic seizures, any anti-epileptic drugs that have been prescribed are usually stopped when a diagnosis of NES is made."

http://www.epilepsynse.org.uk/PAGES/info/leaflets/factsnea.cfm

--sw

Food Allergies

"Food allergies are most often of the delayed type, persisting for some time after the allergic substance has been eliminated and recurring only after repeated daily exposures, once symptoms have improved.
Fixed allergies to gluten containing grains (such as wheat) and dairy products is common, however, and reactions to those foods may persist throughout life, fluctuating in sensitivity from time to time. Viral infections and other illnesses can reactivate food allergies. Allergy is usually the result of repeated exposures to a specific substance or food. The more often the exposure, the more likely it is to provoke an allergic response. For unknown reasons, some foods are tend to be much more allergic than others.
Unless all sensitizing foods are eliminated during the same period of time, for a month or more, there may not be enough time for symptoms to clear. Multiple allergies are additive. Eliminating only one or a few of the sensitizing substances may not be adequate to see improvement, and the diagnosis will be missed.
If symptoms improve and if you feel better on [an elimination] diet, it means that something you eat or drink on a regular basis is either causing or contributing to the severity of symptoms.
You may experience withdrawal symptoms and strong cravings during the first week or two on the diet. Paradoxically, withdrawal and cravings are also symptoms of food allergy. After a few weeks of elimination, cravings for the offending foods will disappear. Cravings are not related to nutritional factors.
Observe carefully for changes in nasal or lung congestion, mucous, fatigue, foggy thinking, digestive disorders, constipation/diarrhea, bloating, gas, fluid retention, pain, mood swings, joint aches, urinary problems, drowsiness after meals, and other symptoms that can be caused by unsuspected food allergies."(1)

(1) http://www.drcranton.com/elimination_diet.htm

Negative effects of sugar

"Results from four out of five placebo-controlled studies in England, as well as a cross-national analysis of schizophrenia outcomes in relation to national dietary practice, all confirm that an excess of sugar and saturated fat in the diet appears to worsen the long-term outcome of schizophrenia."
Consuming high amounts of sugar and fat cause the brain to produce less of the protein product brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF plays an important role in forming new neural growths and synapses.
Dr. Malcolm peet of Swallownest Court Hospital confirms the effects of diet. "It appears that the same dietary factors which are associated with the metabolic syndrome, including high saturated fat, high glycemic load, and low omega-3 PUFA, may also be detrimental to the symptoms of schizophrenia, possibly through a common mechanism involving brain-derived neurotrophic factor."

http://www.schizophrenia.com/sznews/archives/000623.html

Breakfast is critical

It has been determined that patient should eat breakfast as soon as possible after waking up, and take the supplements at that time also. If food or supplements aren't consumed until noon or later, patient is sluggish and experiences dizziness more frequently. Patient has a difficult time eating three meals per day, but has been very cooperative in following the no-dairy diet. Delusional thinking occured on a day in which no food or supplements were consumed until late afternoon. Spoke with cph to make sure the supplements are being taken in the morning along with breakfast shortly after patient wakes up.

Patient Update Dec 1, 2006

1:06pm
Just completed phone call with Patient. Patient had an EEG test taken today. Had a bagel and soy milk for breakfast at 8:30 this morning. No dizziness after eating. Patient took all supplements. Slept well last night. Says the dizziness seems to come and go at different times and it's not clear yet what is bringing it on. Has appt. with Dr. Margolis in a few weeks. Patient sounded tired, had not eaten any lunch yet and had not exercised yet. Patient's speaking speed was a little slow today.
Patient possibly concerned about upcoming vehicle purchase. Patient has been experiencing a "fog-like" feeling and says that makes it difficult to do everything patient wants to do. Patient said things were worse when on medication; there was nausea and headaches a lot.