Recent research has shown that glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in the excitatory pathways of the brain, plays an important role in the development of ASD. In this blog post, we will discuss the link between glutamate and Autism and how understanding this connection may help to improve diagnosis and treatment of the disorder.
Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that plays a key role in cognitive and behavioral functions. It is also implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released by neurons to send signals to other cells. Glutamate is one of the most abundant neurotransmitters in the brain and is important for the normal functioning of nerve cells. It is involved in many processes including learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity. Studies have found that glutamate levels are altered in individuals with ASD. This suggests that there may be a link between glutamate and ASD.
It has been suggested that alterations in glutamate signaling could be involved in the pathophysiology of ASD. Glutamate acts on ionotropic and metabotropic receptors, which can regulate neuronal excitability. Disruptions in the glutamate system have been linked to a variety of neurological disorders including epilepsy, schizophrenia, and autism. Imbalances in glutamate signaling have been linked to an array of behavioral and cognitive problems seen in ASD. Research suggests that abnormalities in glutamatergic neurotransmission could be a contributing factor to some of the symptoms associated with ASD.
Glutamatergic neurotransmission is a key component of the neurological and physiological functioning of the brain. It plays an important role in learning, memory, and emotion regulation. In Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), there appears to be an imbalance in this system that can lead to a variety of symptoms.
Studies have found that glutamate concentrations in the brains of individuals with ASD are generally higher than those of their typically developing peers. This increased concentration can lead to an over-activation of the excitatory pathway, resulting in excitation of neurons that would normally remain inactive. This excitation can lead to a variety of symptoms associated with ASD, such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty regulating emotions.
Other research suggests that the glutamate receptor system may also play a role in the social difficulties seen in individuals with ASD. Specifically, there may be a decrease in the activity of certain receptors in the brain, resulting in decreased social processing skills and deficits in social communication.
Overall, glutamatergic neurotransmission is an important factor to consider when trying to understand the underlying causes of autism spectrum disorder. Understanding how this system works can help researchers to better identify potential treatments and interventions to improve the lives of those with ASD.
The role of glutamate in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasingly being recognized. Studies have shown that dysregulation of the glutamatergic neurotransmission system is associated with symptoms of ASD, such as social deficits, communication problems, and repetitive behaviors. This suggests that targeting the glutamate system may be a viable therapeutic approach for treating the symptoms of ASD.
One possible way to target the glutamatergic neurotransmission system is through the use of medications that modulate glutamate levels. Several medications have been studied for this purpose, including memantine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, and lamotrigine, an antiepileptic drug that has been found to reduce repetitive behaviors in some patients with ASD. Additionally, there are a number of nutritional supplements that contain glutamate-related compounds, such as taurine and glycine, which may be beneficial for reducing symptoms in some people with ASD.
Other approaches to targeting the glutamatergic neurotransmission system in ASD include behavioral therapies and deep brain stimulation. Behavioral therapies, such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), focus on teaching children with ASD how to cope with social situations and communication issues by providing a structured learning environment. Deep brain stimulation involves implanting electrodes into specific parts of the brain to modulate neural activity and has been used to reduce repetitive behaviors in some patients with ASD.
In summary, evidence suggests that dysregulation of the glutamatergic neurotransmission system plays a role in the development of ASD. Targeting this system through medication, nutritional supplements, behavioral therapies, or deep brain stimulation may be effective treatments for reducing the symptoms of ASD.
Nutritional supplements are an important part of autism treatment as they can help regulate the glutamatergic neurotransmission system.
Nutritional supplements can be used to modulate the activity of glutamate in the body, thus helping to reduce symptoms related to ASD. Omega-3 fatty acids are one type of supplement that may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, both of which can contribute to glutamate dysregulation. Vitamin D has also been shown to be beneficial in regulating glutamate levels, as well as providing other general health benefits.
Other supplements that may help regulate glutamatergic neurotransmission in ASD include:
Additionally, it is important to speak to your doctor before beginning any supplement regimen as some supplements may interact with medications or cause adverse reactions.
Can methylation problem be the root cause of autism? Methylation has been identified as a possible factor in autism. Recent research suggests that metabolic biomarkers of increased oxidative stress and impaired methylation capacity may be associated with autism in children. This raises the question: Could methylation issues be at the root of autism? In this blog post, we will explore how methylation issues may be linked to autism and examine the potential implications of these findings.
Everybody wants to know the root cause of autism. Methylation issues could be one of the main factors. Methylation is an important process that helps regulate gene expression, DNA repair, neurotransmitter production, and other metabolic activities in the body. It’s a process of transferring a small molecule, called a methyl group, from one molecule to another. This process helps control the activity of certain genes by either turning them on or off. When the body can’t methylate properly, it leads to increased oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to counteract their damaging effects. This can lead to further health problems if left unaddressed.
Methylation is a biological process that regulates gene expression. Abnormal methylation patterns have been associated with various neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. In individuals with autism, abnormal methylation can impact the expression of genes involved in brain development and function, leading to changes in brain connectivity, synaptic plasticity, and neurotransmitter function, which can contribute to symptoms such as difficulty with social communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests.
Methylation is an essential process that helps the body maintain healthy functions and processes. When it’s impaired, several symptoms can arise. Symptoms of methylation issues may include fatigue, poor memory, chronic pain, mood swings, anxiety, depression, food sensitivities, and digestive problems. Additionally, impaired methylation can lead to increased oxidative stress, when the body’s cells become damaged by free radicals and other toxins. This can manifest as systemic inflammation and an increased risk for certain diseases. Identifying and treating methylation issues is critical for maintaining good health.
A variety of factors can cause methylation issues. The most common are genetic predisposition and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to detoxify them. It is a key factor in many diseases and disorders, including autism.
Genetic mutations that affect methylation may also contribute to the development of methylation problems. These mutations can be inherited or acquired over time, due to environmental factors such as exposure to toxins. Chronic inflammation can also hurt methylation, leading to an imbalance between the production and breakdown of methyl groups.
In some cases, methylation issues can be caused by underlying nutritional deficiencies. For instance, deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, folate, zinc, and magnesium, can all impact methylation pathways. Poor dietary habits, such as consuming processed foods and eating too many sugary foods, can also contribute to methylation issues.
Finally, chronic stress can also contribute to impaired methylation. When the body is under constant stress, it can produce hormones like cortisol which can affect how the body processes nutrients and affects its ability to produce energy. This can lead to changes in methylation levels, leading to a range of health issues.
Methylation testing is an important step in determining the causes of impaired methylation capacity and increased oxidative stress in children with autism. Methylation tests measure the levels of several key compounds involved in the body’s methylation pathways. This includes the biomarkers S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), homocysteine, folate, vitamin B12, and other important molecules related to oxidative stress.
Methylation testing is most often done using a blood sample. However, other samples such as urine, saliva, or hair can also be used. Depending on the test being done, the sample will then be analyzed to measure the levels of different biomarkers associated with methylation pathways. The results of the test can provide valuable insight into the functioning of the methylation pathways and indicate if increased oxidative stress is present. This can help guide treatment decisions and lead to better outcomes for children with autism.
Methylation issues can be addressed through both conventional and alternative treatments. Conventional treatments often focus on managing symptoms and providing support to those affected by autism. These treatments may include dietary interventions, medications, speech and language therapy, and behavioral therapy.
Alternative treatments, such as antioxidant supplements, may also reduce oxidative stress in individuals with methylation issues. Antioxidants reduce the amount of free radicals in the body, which are thought to play a role in developing many chronic illnesses. Antioxidants may also help to boost the body’s natural defenses against oxidative stress. Some antioxidants that may benefit individuals with methylation issues include vitamin C, vitamin E, CoQ10, N-acetylcysteine, and glutathione. Additionally, consuming a diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables may also be beneficial. For more information on the biomedical treatment of autism check this page.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15585776/
Probably you did not know until now, that whey protein isolate could increase intracellular GSH (glutathione) concentrations and protect against oxidant-induced cell death all over the body, including gut cells.
Whey Protein assists the body in maintaining optimal concentrations of Glutathione (GSH) by supplying the precursors required for intracellular glutathione synthesis.
Glutathione is a tripeptide made intracellularly from its constituent amino acids L-glutamate, L-cysteine, and glycine. The sulfhydryl (thiol) group (SH) of cysteine is responsible for the biological activity of Glutathione. The provision of this amino acid is the rate-limiting factor in glutathione synthesis by the cells since bioavailable cysteine is relatively rare in foodstuffs.
Glutathione is a master antioxidant and has several health benefits; among others, Glutathione is present in the entire intestinal mucosa, where it traps and neutralizes potential toxins before they are absorbed into the body. Glutathione protects the intestinal wall, which, if weakened, can lead to a leaking / permeable intestinal problem. See more benefits here: Glutathione
Main resources
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12537959/
file:///C:/Users/User/Downloads/JournalofWoundCareGutmanpapercopy.pdf
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.669089/full
https://www.pdr.net/full-prescribing-information/Immunocal-cysteine-257
Quercetin is certainly one of the most exciting dietary flavonoids. It’s been linked to improved exercise performance and reduced inflammation, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. Plus, it may have brain-protective, anti-allergy, and anticancer properties, and it is a natural antihistamine.
Numerous studies support the existence of a natural antihistamine because it regulates the release of histamine from basophils and mast cells (1). This regulatory mechanism can be used for various unwanted symptoms, allergies, asthma, and histamine intolerance symptoms.
The enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO) is responsible for the proper breakdown of histamine. Histamine plays an important role in the dynamic functioning of our body, but if the activity of the DAO enzyme decreases, we can experience various unpleasant symptoms due to high histamine levels: hives, eczema, swollen mouth, cough, runny nose, digestive problems, bloating, flatulence or abdominal pain. In these cases, the regulatory function of quercetin may be helpful.
In addition to quercetin, DAO enzyme activity can be supported by supplementing other micronutrients. Among other things, zinc, copper, manganese, magnesium minerals, B vitamins (including choline and inositol), and vitamin C help proper production.
Quercetin displays high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have been proven by many in vivo and in vitro studies. Its anti-allergic mechanism of action through the inhibition of enzymes and inflammatory mediators has also been extensively studied. It is well known that quercetin is an inhibitor of human mast cell activation through the inhibition of Ca2+ influx, histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins release. The results of the studies prove the unique position of this supplement in the treatment of allergic disorders and the possibility of using phytochemicals such as quercetin for an efficient cure. (3)
This excellent flavonoid is known to exhibit antibacterial effects against almost all strains of bacteria, particularly affecting the gastrointestinal, respiratory, urinary, and dermal systems. (4)
In 2008, a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial in 12 healthy men showed biochemical evidence of improved endothelial function (such as augmentation of nitric oxide status) with as little as 200 mg/day of quercetin. (5)
This flavonoid actually blocks the uptake of glucose from the blood, depriving fat cells of the raw material they need to manufacture and accumulate fat molecules. (6)
In another study, genistein, quercetin, and resveratrol together decreased lipid accumulation in fat cells by 17%, 20%, and 17%, respectively, the combination of all three agents decreased lipid accumulation by an impressive 80%. (7)
Glutathione is the body’s most important antioxidant in every cell.
It is also called a “master antioxidant” because it exerts its effects on cells and unique ability to maximize the impact of all other antioxidants.
The primary function of Glutathione is to protect cells and mitochondria from the damaging, destructive effects of internal oxidation processes [1]. It covers the integrity of our cells, tissues, and organs, thus playing an essential role in the fight against chronic diseases associated with aging.
Glutathione is key to detoxification, neutralizing toxins in the body, and protecting against the harmful effects of radiation, chemicals, and environmental contaminants.
It improves the functioning of the immune system, has a nervous system protection effect, increases the body’s resistance to infections, can speed up the recovery from diseases, and increases the body’s energy levels and vitality [2].
To achieve optimal health and longevity, the body’s glutathione levels should be kept high [3]. Glutathione levels are significantly reduced by diseases, infections, stress, malnutrition, environmental pollution, poisoning, and aging.
Deficiency of this master antioxidant has been linked to several diseases: immune system disorders, nervous system problems, autoimmune processes, lack of energy, impaired detoxification function, muscle weakness, inflammatory conditions, and cellular malignancies [4].
GSH is a critical component of our antioxidant defense system. This molecule is made up of three amino acids (cysteine, glutamic acid, glycine) that are produced in small amounts by our body. Still, in many cases, our body needs replacement.
Contrary to popular belief, it can be demonstrated that during oral administration of the molecule, it is not degraded in the acidic medium of the stomach but is absorbed from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream and reaches the cells [5].
The liver contains a large amount of Glutathione, which shows its important role in the body’s detoxification processes. Low glutathione levels are present in many chronic diseases and weakened immune systems, so the elderly, physically and mentally stressed people, and the weakened immune system need Glutathione!
Histamine intolerance occurs when histamines, chemicals released by the body in response to allergens, build up in the body and have a negative impact on health and well-being.
People with Histamine intolerance may experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea, digestive issues, rashes and more if they consume foods with high histamine content or aren’t able to break down histamines efficiently.
However, there are treatment options that can help alleviate symptoms and even heal Histamine intolerance over time.
There are very effective natural solutions for histamine Intolerance and Mast cell activation syndrome that can be added to the medical treatment or can be used alone. In the treatment of histamine intolerance and mast cell activation syndrome, if we think of natural substances, the same can be said, i.e. the goal is to reduce the amount of histamine in the body, so it is worth controlling the process of histamine breakdown and stabilizing mast cells.
I did not take the natural treatment of histamine intolerance and MCAS separately because, like the symptoms, the proper natural active ingredients are similar too. However, the treatment of MCAS is a very complex thing. In many cases, when the immune system has calmed down, the asymptomatic stage can be maintained only by taking natural remedies. In histamine intolerance, with the help of natural supplements, you can become asymptomatic in the long run if the root cause is treated.
First of all, the cause of both histamine intolerance and mast cell activation syndrome should be explored. In the case of histamine intolerance, the first thing to think about is the inflammatory condition of the intestinal tract. I have described the causes in previous articles. Read them here: HIT , MCAS
There is often a problem that the therapy used to eliminate the root causes is not tolerated by the individual. This is a major challenge for all diseases, especially MCAS. If you have severe histamine intolerance or MCAS, you may have severe symptoms of the medication you are taking for the root cause (such as parasites, lyme, SIBO, retroviruses, or molds).
The reaction is individual for everyone. It is also advisable to consult a specialist regarding natural active substances, who are experts in the natural treatment of these health conditions. However, it is a fact that certain substances can be used safely. It is worth switching the substances if possible and observing which is the most suitable active ingredient for you.
1. Low histamine diet: Minimize your intake of histamine through food
2. Helping to breakdown histamine
3. Stabilization of mast cells
4. Stabilising the immune system and reducing inflammation
To reduce histamine levels in your body, you should adopt a low histamine diet. Avoid the following:
Alcohol
Smoked and cured meat
Seafood
Pickled foods
Fermented foods
Leftovers
Canned sh or meat
Berries, especially strawberries (except blueberry)
Preservatives
Vinegar
Try to eat foods as fresh as possible, and stick to anti-inflammatory professional foods. See Low histamine food list
Diamine oxidase (DAO) stabilizes mast cells, but more importantly, it is the predominant enzyme besides HNMT enzyme that breaks down histamine. To increase your DAO levels, you can take DAO enzymes. You can also increase your DAO levels with high doses of vitamin C.
You should also avoid anything that blocks the release of DAO. Alcohol is in the first place in blocking the DAO. The worst thing happens when you drink alcohol, histamine is released from your mast cells, and DAO is simultaneously inhibited.
If you would try any kind of natural supplement, I recommend the following:
Only pure and well-trusted formulations should be chosen. I have tried many kinds of natural supplements. It happened once that I had such intense diarrhea after taking that supplement that I needed to rebuild my gut flora from the beginning again.
I recommend a 3-day trial period with a lower dose of the new supplement before increasing the daily dose or the next supplement. My favorite supplement for stabilizing histamine release is Quercetin. If you want to know everything about the possible treatment, you will have the chance to get all the information on our membership site soon. Check back later.
