Citrate and Corn-Derived Supplements: Potential Neurotoxicity
Citrate or citric acid, commonly found in many supplements, has the potential to be neurotoxic, especially in sensitive individuals. Most citrate is derived from corn, and during the processing of corn-derived supplements, trace amounts of glutamate or aspartate can be produced. Vitamin C supplements, in particular, are often derived from corn, and for the same reason, they should be avoided.
Opt for brands that use other sources for vitamin C to steer clear of potential glutamate and aspartate issues. Furthermore, as most corn is genetically modified and loaded with glyphosate, it can also elevate glutamate levels, making another compelling reason to avoid corn-based supplements.
The Intricate Relationship of Glutamate and Calcium
Glutamate, one of the most abundant neurotransmitters in the brain, can bind with six other receptors, including the NMDA receptor, which plays a critical role in memory function and synaptic plasticity by delivering calcium to the cell. However, glutamate in combination with calcium can lead to ongoing firing of neurons, causing the release of inflammatory mediators and further influx of calcium. This vicious cycle results in neural inflammation and cell death.
Glutamate has been compared to a gun, while calcium is likened to the bullet by Dr. Mark Neveu, a former president of the National Foundation of Alternative Medicine. Activation of the NMDA receptor also involves glycine, D-serine, or D-alanine, which could also lead to increased calcium influx.
Regulating Calcium Levels to Maintain GABA and Glutamate Balance
Magnesium and zinc play crucial roles in regulating calcium levels. While magnesium helps control calcium levels, higher doses of zinc (over 40mg per day) can release glutamate through non-NMDA glutamate receptors, necessitating caution. Other substances like lithium orotate, Boswellia, and wormwood may be used to bring down excessive calcium levels.
Vitamin K2 and D are essential to help with calcium absorption. Magnesium also binds to and activates GABA receptors, aiding in maintaining the balance between inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters.
Taurine for GAD Enzyme and GABA Levels
Taurine, an amino acid, increases the activity of the GAD enzyme and boosts GABA levels. Additionally, taurine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter and binds directly to GABA receptors, providing natural balance. People deficient in taurine may also have low GAD enzyme levels, making taurine supplementation essential to manage GABA and glutamate balance and protect against neuron death.
However, individuals with certain genetic polymorphisms (CBS and SUOX gene mutations) should exercise caution with taurine supplementation due to excess sulfur levels. Candida overgrowth can also affect taurine absorption, leading to GABA deficiency. Proper serotonin levels are needed for GABA to function effectively, so bringing up serotonin levels may be necessary to increase GABA activity.
The Role of Diet in Glutamate and GABA Imbalance
A diet lacking in nutrients necessary for inhibitory neurotransmitter production, such as animal protein and fat, can contribute to an imbalance between glutamate and GABA. Adequate fat consumption is essential for proper neurotransmitter transmission, yet many people do not consume enough fat in their diet.
Certain foods and substances, like sugar, whole grains, legumes, high-starch foods, caffeine, chocolate, artificial sweeteners, flavorings, additives, and dyes, can deplete GABA levels or disrupt neurotransmitter transmission. Grains, including whole grains, may lead to excessive glutamate formation in some individuals, causing excitotoxic effects.
Ketogenic Diet and GABA Production
A ketogenic diet has been found to promote GABA production and can be beneficial in treating conditions associated with excess glutamate, such as seizures and epilepsy. The diet increases the GAD enzyme, and neurons can use ketones from fat burning as a precursor to GABA.
However, individuals with high-histamine levels may not fare well on a true ketogenic diet, as fat can be a histamine releaser. In such cases, a low-carb Paleo diet (under 50 grams of carbs per day, high in animal protein, and moderate in fat) can help maintain GABA and glutamate balance without inducing ketosis.
Conclusion:
Understanding the complex interactions between citrate, glutamate, calcium, and other nutrients is crucial in maintaining a proper balance between GABA and glutamate levels. By being mindful of potential neurotoxicity and incorporating appropriate supplements and dietary adjustments, individuals can strive to achieve optimal neurotransmitter balance and support their overall neurological and psychological health.
Resources
1. Waly, M. I., Olteanu, H., Banerjee, R., & Patterson Jr, B. (2004). Activation of methionine synthase by insulin-like growth factor-1 and dopamine: a target for neurodevelopmental toxins and thimerosal. Molecular Psychiatry, 9(4), 358-370.
2. Russo, A. J., & Devito, R. (2011). Analysis of micronutrients in the plasma of autistic children. Acta Neurobiologiae Experimentalis, 71(2), 177-184.
3. Yorbik, O., Sayal, A., Akay, C., & Akbiyik, D. I. N. Ç. E. M. (2002). Selenium, zinc, copper, and magnesium levels and copper/zinc ratios in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Biological Trace Element Research, 85(1), 47-52.
4. Holick, M. F. (2007). Vitamin D deficiency. New England Journal of Medicine, 357(3), 266-281.
5. Takeuchi, T., Fukumoto, Y., Harada, E., Hamada, M., Horiuchi, S., & Hinoi, E. (2009). A possible role of R-spondin1, an antagonist of Wnt signaling, in thymic epithelial cells. Genes to Cells, 14(3), 295-306.
