acnlatitudes--2020-01-30--Walnuts for Better Gut Health

Walnuts for Better Gut Health

Evidence clearly supports a connection between gut health and brain function .
So , when research supports simple approaches that can help maintain a healthy digestive tract , we want to be sure you hear about them .
Walnut ’ s positive effect on heart health has been known for years .
This press release , edited for length , is from Children ’ s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute .
The findings indicate that one way walnuts help the heart is by improving the gut bacteria .
Walnuts may not just be a tasty snack , they may also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that these “ good ” bacteria could be contributing to the heart-health benefits of walnuts .
Researchers found that eating walnuts daily as part of a healthy diet was associated with increases in certain bacteria that can help promote health .
Additionally , those changes in gut bacteria were associated with improvements in some risk factors for heart disease .
Kristina Petersen , assistant research professor at Penn State , said the study — recently published in The Journal of Nutrition — suggests walnuts may be a heart- and gut-healthy snack .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s an unhealthy snack — with walnuts is a small change you can make to improve your diet , ” Petersen said .
“ Substantial evidence shows that small improvements in diet greatly benefit health .
Eating two to three ounces of walnuts a day as part of a healthy diet could be a good way to improve gut health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
” ( Editor : One ounce is about 12 good-sized halves .
Previous research has shown that walnuts , when combined with a diet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart-healthy benefits .
For example , previous work demonstrated that eating whole walnuts daily lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure .
Other research has found that changes to the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract — also known as the gut microbiome — may help explain the cardiovascular benefits of walnuts .
“ There ’ s a lot of work being done on gut health and how it affects overall health , ” said Penny Kris-Etherton , distinguished professor of nutrition at Penn State .
“ So , in addition to looking at factors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to look at gut health .
We also wanted to see if changes in gut health with walnut consumption were related to improvements in risk factors for heart disease.
” “ The findings add to what we know about the health benefits of walnuts , this time moving toward their effects on gut health , ” author Kris-Etherton said .
“ The study gives us clues that nuts may change gut health , and now we ’ re interested in expanding that and looking into how it may affect blood sugar levels.
” @ @ @ @ @ @

Evidence clearly supports a connection between gut health and brain function. So, when research supports simple approaches that can help maintain a healthy digestive tract, we want to be sure you hear about them. Walnut’s positive effect on heart health has been known for years. This press release, edited for length, is from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute. The findings indicate that one way walnuts help the heart is by improving the gut bacteria.
Walnuts may not just be a tasty snack, they may also promote good-for-your-gut bacteria. New research suggests that these “good” bacteria could be contributing to the heart-health benefits of walnuts.
Researchers found that eating walnuts daily as part of a healthy diet was associated with increases in certain bacteria that can help promote health. Additionally, those changes in gut bacteria were associated with improvements in some risk factors for heart disease.
Kristina Petersen, assistant research professor at Penn State, said the study — recently published in The Journal of Nutrition — suggests walnuts may be a heart- and gut-healthy snack.
“Replacing your usual snack — especially if it’s an unhealthy snack — with walnuts is a small change you can make to improve your diet,” Petersen said. “Substantial evidence shows that small improvements in diet greatly benefit health. Eating two to three ounces of walnuts a day as part of a healthy diet could be a good way to improve gut health and reduce the risk of heart disease.” (Editor: One ounce is about 12 good-sized halves.
Previous research has shown that walnuts, when combined with a diet low in saturated fats, may have heart-healthy benefits. For example, previous work demonstrated that eating whole walnuts daily lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Other research has found that changes to the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract — also known as the gut microbiome — may help explain the cardiovascular benefits of walnuts.
“There’s a lot of work being done on gut health and how it affects overall health,” said Penny Kris-Etherton, distinguished professor of nutrition at Penn State. “So, in addition to looking at factors like lipids and lipoproteins, we wanted to look at gut health. We also wanted to see if changes in gut health with walnut consumption were related to improvements in risk factors for heart disease.”
“The findings add to what we know about the health benefits of walnuts, this time moving toward their effects on gut health,” author Kris-Etherton said. “The study gives us clues that nuts may change gut health, and now we’re interested in expanding that and looking into how it may affect blood sugar levels.”
See the full report here.


acnlatitudes--2020-07-29--Here’s the Scoop on Hydroxychloroquine for Covid-19

Conflicting reports on whether the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine can help treat Covid-19 have resulted in major confusion .
I hope by sharing some current key resources you ’ ll have a better understanding of where things stand .
As most readers know , worldwide attention to this medication skyrocketed when touted by President Trump in March 2020 .
He recommended its use to the public as a cure for Covid-19 , yet at the time there were not sufficient studies to support this .
Unfortunately , the issue has since become highly politicized and twisted .
Over the last few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hydroxychloroquine has generally died down ( Twitter sparring aside ) , research has ramped up .
It ’ s reported that globally , more than 200 trials are currently underway for the drug ’ s use as a prophylactic ( preventive ) or treatment for Covid-19 .
While research carries on , major disagreements continue among public health officials and within the medical field as to hydroxychloroquine ’ s usefulness and potential for harm .
Only quality large-scale research over time will resolve many of the issues involved .
The majority of studies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hydroxychloroquine .
These reports are summarized in the BBC article below .
Yet , significant research out of Detroit offers some hope for its use as a treatment for hospitalized patients .
What should we think ?
I suggest you review both the resources given .
The BBC has just published a summary of current research on hydroxychloroquine for Covid-19 ( July 27 , 2020 ) .
It ’ s reader-friendly and worth the time to read .
( Bottom line : The drug is not helpful for Covid-19 . )
Coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Henry Ford Health System in Detroit , Michigan recently released results of a significant study involving 2500+ patients .
Watch the one-minute video and read about the research ( linked as a press release for you ) for their positive conclusion on the drug ’ s potential .
( Bottom line : Hydroxychloroquine significantly reduced the death rate for a specified group of people ) See the press release here As this article was being written today , the former FDA head , Scott Gottlieb , said in an online interview : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can definitively say hydroxychloroquine doesn ’ t work .
I ’ m not sure what more we need to do.
” See here .
Well , what we need to do is wait for more of the research to come in .
Was the Detroit study given fair exposure–or have their findings been swept under the rug ?
I ’ m not sure , but time will tell .
Let ’ s all look to the science for medical answers and put politics aside .
We will aim to keep you posted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us any research you consider relevant .

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acnlatitudes--2020-07-30--Should We All Be Drinking Golden Milk?

Should We All Be Drinking Golden Milk?

Warm “ golden milk ” is all the rage , from coffee shops and restaurants to home kitchens .
Mugs of the creamy concoction have graced the cover of hundreds of magazines , each touting a favored recipe .
Affectionados claim it is soothing , “ soul restoring , ” and helps with sleep .
Natural health folks focus on the numerous benefits of the flavorful spices , with turmeric as the shining star as a proven anti-inflammatory .
Ginger and cinnamon each have benefits as well .
When Starbucks jumps on the turmeric bandwagon , you know it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include packaged ground coffee with added turmeric , and a sugary Iced Golden Ginger Drink that features turmeric and ginger .
While it might seem like a new concept , golden milk has been consumed in the East for centuries , often as a drink for sick children or to help them sleep , as well as simply being enjoyed .
So what ’ s the big deal , and what ’ s in it ?
The big deal is that if you like the spices ( and that ’ s a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to consume their medicinal and healing properties .
It ’ s also a caffeine-free drink .
One caveat is that some people are allergic or sensitive to cinnamon , and a lesser number react to ginger and turmeric .
• Whole milk or substitutes like almond , oat , or coconut milk .
• Sweetener of choice , often honey or maple syrup This recipe for Golden Milk goes easy on the spices , in case you need to develop a taste for them .
If you aren ’ t concerned about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how you like it .
Last year I wanted to treat myself to this nourishing beverage so I read up on all the tips I could find .
The most important one I found was to use quality spices , rather than rely on the typical ones sold in the baking area of grocery stores .
Second was to use Ceylon cinnamon rather than the more common and stronger cassia cinnamon .
And the third was to go organic .
After spending way too much time researching options online , I purchased a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organic ground turmeric on Amazon .
That cost more than $ 20 dollars , but it seemed cost effective compared to buying the little containers in the grocery store .
The only problem was that I decided I didn ’ t like turmeric .
Solution ?
I switched my recipe to use a generous amount of cinnamon and just a hint of turmeric .
And I bought some turmeric supplements .
My suggestion is to start small and go easy , adding more spice as you go along .
And if you truly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t torture yourself .
We don ’ t all have to be drinking Golden Milk .

Warm “golden milk” is all the rage, from coffee shops and restaurants to home kitchens. Mugs of the creamy concoction have graced the cover of hundreds of magazines, each touting a favored recipe. Affectionados claim it is soothing, “soul restoring,” and helps with sleep. Natural health folks focus on the numerous benefits of the flavorful spices, with turmeric the shining star as a proven powerful anti-inflammatory. Ginger and cinnamon each have unique benefits as well.
When Starbucks jumps on the turmeric bandwagon, you know it’s a trend. Their new offerings include packaged ground coffee with added turmeric, and a sugary Iced Golden Ginger Drink that features turmeric and ginger.
While it might seem like a new concept, golden milk has been consumed in the East for centuries, often as a drink for sick children or to help them sleep, as well as simply being enjoyed.
So what’s the big deal, and what’s in it? The big deal is that if you like the spices (and that’s a big if), you have a pleasant way to consume their medicinal and healing properties. It’s also a caffeine-free drink. One caveat is that some people are allergic or sensitive to cinnamon, and a lesser number react to ginger and turmeric.
Classic ingredients in Golden Milk
Whole milk or substitutes like oat, almond, or coconut milk.
Ground turmeric
Ground or stick cinnamon
Freshly grated ginger root or ground
Black pepper
Sweetener of choice, often honey or maple syrup
Ingredients for a starting recipe
This recipe for Golden Milk goes easy on the spices, in case you need to develop a taste for them. If you aren’t concerned about that, double the spices and see how you like it.
2 cups whole milk, coconut, oat or almond milk
coconut, oat or 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger or 1/4 inch ginger root, peeled and grated
A generous pinch of ground cinnamon
A not-so-generous pinch of black pepper
1 teaspoon honey, maple syrup or other sweetener Instructions
Whisk all ingredients together in a small saucepan and bring to a low boil. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes until it is fragrant. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain as you pour into two cups. Garnish with additional cinnamon, if desired. If you only want a single serving, store remaining Golden Milk in the refrigerator for up to a few days, or simply halve the recipe. A word of advice
Last year I wanted to treat myself to this nourishing beverage so I read up on all the tips I could find. The most important one I found was to use quality spices, rather than rely on the typical ones sold in the baking area of grocery stores. Second, was to use Ceylon cinnamon instead of the more common and stronger cassia cinnamon (but both are really OK). And the third was to go organic.
After spending way too much time researching options online, I purchased a pound each of organic Ceylon cinnamon and organic ground turmeric on Amazon. Together they cost about $25, but it seemed cost effective compared to the price of multiple small containers at natural food stores.
Well, it might have been cost effective if I could possibly have used up the spices—a pinch or teaspoonful at a time—before my wonderful stash lost its freshness.
But the biggest problem was that I found I really dislike the taste of turmeric outside of its use in Indian meals. I still wanted the anti-inflammatory benefit, though. Solution? I switched my recipe to use a generous amount of cinnamon, just a hint of turmeric, and kept the other ingredients as is. And I bought a turmeric supplement.
My suggestion is to start small and go easy, adding more spice as you go along. And, if you truly don’t like it, don’t torture yourself. We don’t all have to be drinking Golden Milk.


acnlatitudes--2020-07-30--Avoiding 12 Chemicals That Are Damaging Your Health (Premium)

Chances are you ’ ll come in contact with harmful , hormone disrupting chemicals today .
They lurk in some of the most common industrial and household products .
Hormone disruptors promote diabetes , infertility , cancer , ADHD and other neurological conditions , plus numerous other health problems .
They are thought to play a major role in the obesity crisis in the West .
While the alarm was sounded 30 years ago , the problem persists , with damaging , complex interactions growing in number .
The chemicals of concern are often encountered in industrial and household goods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , treated furniture and waterproof clothing , BPA in the lining of canned food , pesticides , and some plastics .
Learn what hormone disruptors do to our bodies , and how to avoid them .
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We offer many free articles for our viewers .
However , this particular article requires a Premium Membership to view the content .
If you 're a premium member , please login to continue reading .
To learn more or to start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ membership page .
Signup is quick and easy .
Becoming a member gives you many benefits and helps to support our efforts as a non-profit organization .

Chances are you’ll come in contact with harmful, hormone disrupting chemicals today. They lurk in some of the most common industrial and household products. Hormone disruptors promote diabetes, infertility, cancer, ADHD and other neurological conditions, plus numerous other health problems. They are thought to play a major role in the obesity crisis in the West.
While the alarm was sounded 30 years ago, the problem persists, with damaging, complex interactions growing in number. The chemicals of concern are often encountered in industrial and household goods. Examples: toxins in nonstick pans, treated furniture and waterproof clothing, BPA in the lining of canned food, pesticides, and some plastics.
In this article, learn what hormone disruptors do to our bodies, and how to avoid them.


acnlatitudes--2020-07-31--Helping Kids Navigate Their Emotions With Feelings Charts

Dealing with emotions is a learned skill , and parents play an integral role in helping a child develop that skill .
In these difficult times , we know firsthand that moms and dads are looking for ways to do just that .
We know , because our most popular parenting charts during the last few months have been focused on kids ’ feelings .
Having tools to help your children It ’ s tough enough as parents to deal with your own emotions during this pandemic .
You have been forced to cope with social restrictions , financial problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It can be overwhelming .
But imagine being a child .
Kids have no way to grasp what is really happening with the response to Covid-19 .
They just know that their regular life has been turned upside down .
On the one hand , we know kids tend to be resilient .
On the other hand , this generation of children is dealing with the new experience of losing contact with friends , teachers , and extended family .
Most have been moved from the classroom to virtual learning .
Chances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stress and uncertainty you are experiencing .
Children overhear conversations .
They catch some of the news .
They know the family lifestyle has changed .
A job may have been lost — or even a loved one .
All these happenings can be emotionally distressing .
Maybe you think you don ’ t know how to help your child better understand feelings and express emotions .
Don ’ t worry .
Our Feelings and Emotions Charts can serve as a simple tool .
First , you will want to help them recognize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of emotions .
Then , you can steer them toward being able to talk about them .
Along with a child learning to discuss their own emotions , being able to recognize how others are feeling is a valuable social skill .
Tips for using the charts If your child is reluctant or unable to verbally express how they are feeling , use our Feelings and Emotions Charts to let them draw or point to different emotions .
Make it a point to explain your own feelings throughout the day Comments such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your child : “ I ’ m frustrated because we ’ re late for our appointment .
And we ’ re late because you won ’ t put your clothes on.
” “ I ’ m sad because I want to see Grandma but I can ’ t right now.
” “ Your dad is excited that you want to try to ride your bike today.
” “ I ’ m really happy that you were so helpful to your sister this morning.
” Try some of these approaches as part of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re getting angry and don ’ t want to share your markers .
How do you think we can work this out ?
” “ You look like you ’ re feeling sad about something .
Can you tell me what ’ s bothering you ?
” “ This project seems to be making you frustrated .
What do you think would help ?
” “ Can you look at this chart and show me ( or draw ) how you are feeling right now ?
” Select charts that are age- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take you .
Be casual as you engage your child with one or more charts .
When in doubt , simply try to get a conversation going with phrases such as : “ Tell me more about that.
” “ I see .
What else can you tell me ?
” “ Is someone doing anything that makes you feel that way ?
” “ When else have you felt like that ?
” “ Can you think of a time when you ’ ve been worried ?
” If you aren ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t push .
You can say : “ It might be hard to decide how you feel right now .
That ’ s OK. Why not think about it and we can try another time.
” Try to validate children ’ s experiences , rather than suggest they should not be feeling the way they do .
Feelings need to be accepted , not forced into something else .
It ’ s OK for a child to feel a wide range of emotions .
It ’ s natural .
Its human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need it Our Feelings and Emotions Charts are good for opening the door to discussions .
However , if you sense something deeper is going on , or if realize you feel like you need help with this process , be sure to out a school guidance counselor or therapist–or ask your pediatrician for a referral .
Having a healthy understanding of emotions is a tremendous asset to a person of any age .

Dealing with emotions is a learned skill, and parents play an major role in helping a child develop that skill. In these difficult times, we know firsthand that moms and dads are looking for ways to do just that.
We know, because our most popular parenting charts over the last few months have been focused on kids’ feelings.
Using our tools to help your children
It’s tough enough as parents to deal with your own emotions during this pandemic. You’ve been forced to cope with social restrictions, financial changes, virtual learning efforts, and/or looming uncertainties. It can be overwhelming.
But imagine being a child. Kids have no way to grasp what is really happening with Covid-19. They just know that their regular life has been turned upside down.
On the one hand, we know kids tend to be resilient. On the other hand, this generation of children is dealing with the new experience of losing contact with friends, teachers, and extended family. Most have had instruction moved from the classroom to virtual learning.
Also, chances are they have picked up on the stress and uncertainty you’re experiencing. Children overhear conversations. They catch some of the news. They may have realized the family lifestyle has changed. A job may have been lost — or even a loved one.
All these events can be emotionally distressing.
Tips for using the charts
Maybe you think you don’t know how to help your child better understand feelings and express emotions. If you are concerned or uncomfortable with the topic, don’t worry. Our Feelings and Emotions Charts can serve as a simple tool.
First, you will want to help them recognize and give a name to different types of emotions. Then, you can steer them toward being able to talk about them.
Along with a child learning to discuss their own emotions, being able to recognize how others are feeling is a valuable social skill.
Our Feelings and Emotions Charts can be downloaded from this website. They offer you an easy way to start a discussion on emotions. Click here to download.
Nonverbal communication
If your child is reluctant or unable to verbally express how they are feeling, use our Feelings and Emotions Charts to let them draw or simply point to different emotions.
Introducing different emotions
It will help your child understand different emotions if you explain your own feelings throughout the day
This tip makes sense when you are feeling under control! There will be times when it is better to share your feelings with a companion, friend, or therapist rather than express them to a child. Use common sense.
Comments such as these will increase the emotional vocabulary of your child:
“I’m frustrated because we’re late for our appointment. And we’re late because you won’t put your clothes on.”
“I’m sad because I want to see Grandma but I can’t right now.”
“Your dad is excited that you want to try to ride your bike today.”
“I’m really happy that you were so helpful to your sister this morning.”
Verbally reflect your child’s feelings
Try some of these approaches as part of your regular conversation:
“I see you’re getting angry and don’t want to share your markers. How do you think we can work this out?”
“You look like you’re feeling sad about something. Can you tell me what’s bothering you?”
“This project seems to be making you frustrated. What do you think would help?”
“Can you look at this chart and show me (or draw) how you are feeling right now?”
Make it a natural interaction
Select charts that are age appropriate, or developmentally suitable, and see where they take you. Be casual as you engage your child with one or more charts. When in doubt, simply try to get a conversation going with phrases such as:
“Tell me more about that.”
“I see. What else can you tell me?”
“Is someone doing anything that makes you feel that way?”
“When else have you felt like that?”
“Can you think of a time when you’ve been worried?”
If you aren’t getting much of a response, don’t push. You can say: “It might be hard to decide how you feel right now. That’s OK. Why not think about it and we can try another time.”
Try to validate children’s experiences, rather than suggest they should not be feeling the way they do. Feelings need to be accepted, not forced into something else. It’s OK for a child to feel a wide range of emotions. It’s natural. Its human.
Reach out for help when you need it
Our Feelings and Emotions Charts are good for opening the door to discussions. However, if you sense something deeper is going on, or if start to feel like you need help with this process, be sure to reach out a school guidance counselor or therapist–or ask your pediatrician for a referral.
Having a healthy understanding of emotions is a tremendous asset to a person of any age.


acnlatitudes--2020-08-02--Need Help Deciding On In-Person School?

Need Help Deciding On In-Person School?

This page is posted with the understanding that the school situation during the Covid-19 pandemic is ever evolving as new information and policies are shared .
We also recognize that while approaches vary , both across and within countries , there ’ s a serious disparity among different family situations .
Some are in dire financial straits and desperate to have their child in school so they can to go work ; they can not afford to pay for supervision and/or someone to help provide online instruction .
Some students are not visual learners and struggle with online lessons .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hire an in-person private teacher for a small group of kids .
In some areas , schools are presently closed and there is no choice available for the coming month ( s ) .
In others , a hybrid or in-person only situation is in place .
We know some schools will open and then suddenly close , because a student or staff tested positive .
The list of complicating factors goes goes on .
.
.
With all that in mind , we share an in-depth article that contains advice offered by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two school-aged children were hit with the virus .
Here ’ s an excerpt from “ Reopening a School in the Pandemic ” with a link to the full article : Dr. Elisa Song : As the start of the 2020-21 school year rapidly approaches , many of you have asked how I think schools should re-open .
As a pediatrician who has cared for patients with COVID-19 , a parent of 2 school-age children , and a mother of 2 children who had COVID-19 ( 1 of whom was hospitalized and had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MIS-C ) , I have a unique perspective that I want to share .
Know that this is my opinion , based on the limited yet emerging data we have about COVID-19 in kids , my personal and clinical experiences as a mother and pediatrician , and the reality we ’ re living in – which at the moment includes a surge in COVID-19 cases in most states , and a continued lack of adequate testing capacity for symptomatic and exposed individuals .

This blog is posted with the understanding that the school situation during the Covid-19 pandemic is ever evolving as new information and policies are shared.
While policy approaches vary, both across and within countries, one of the most challenging problems is the disparity among different family situations:
Some parents are in dire financial straits and desperate to have their child in school so they can to go work; they cannot afford to pay for supervision and/or someone to help provide online instruction. Others can manage nicely or can even hire private tutors.
Many families rely on schools to provide meals, or they have a child with special needs. For them, school services are a critical lifeline that goes beyond education. There are others who are not as seriously impacted by missing out on school services.
Families often lack suitable computers, printers, and hi-speed internet at home for virtual classes. Meanwhile some have everything they need and are moving ahead smoothly with their education.
Some students are not visual learners and struggle with online lessons. Others thrive on computer-based learning.
In some areas, schools are presently closed and there is no choice available for the coming month(s). In others, a hybrid or in-person only situation is in place. We know some schools will open and then suddenly close because a student or staff tested positive. As the saying goes, “It’s complicated.” h
With all this in mind, we share an in-depth article that contains advice offered by Dr. Elisa Song, a pediatrician whose two school-aged children were hit with the virus. Parents will find a great deal of information and can see what applies to their situation.
Here’s an excerpt from “Reopening a School in the Pandemic,” with a link to the full article:
Dr. Elisa Song: As the start of the 2020-21 school year rapidly approaches, many of you have asked how I think schools should re-open.
As a pediatrician who has cared for patients with COVID-19, a parent of 2 school-age children, and a mother of 2 children who had COVID-19 (1 of whom was hospitalized and had all the signs of possibly heading toward MIS-C), I have a unique perspective that I want to share.
Know that this is my opinion, based on the limited yet emerging data we have about COVID-19 in kids, my personal and clinical experiences as a mother and pediatrician, and the reality we’re living in – which at the moment includes a surge in COVID-19 cases in most states, and a continued lack of adequate testing capacity for symptomatic and exposed individuals.
Want to read more? Click here


acnlatitudes--2020-08-07--Aluminum Levels Abnormal in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism is assumed to involve both genetic and environmental factors , including exposure to environmental toxins .
The disorder is neurodevelopmental and of unknown cause , although human exposure to aluminium , a neurotoxin , has been linked to autism spectrum disorder .
The 2020 study highlighted below , involving study of brains donated to science , is an open access article that may be shared freely .
It builds on a 2018 published research article , “ Aluminium in brain tissue in autism.
” In discussing results of that study , Dr. Christopher Exley reported that he and co-workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for aluminum in human brain tissues yet recorded.
” The sample size was small , and the findings became controversial , particularly because many people pointed out that aluminum is used in vaccines .
The CDC says : “ Aluminum-containing adjuvants are vaccine ingredients that have been used in vaccines since the 1930s .
Small amounts of aluminum are added to help the body build stronger immunity against the germ in the vaccine.
” Aluminum exposure can also occur through occupational exposures , the environment , and diet , as well as aluminum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , what does it mean that levels are so high in specimens of those with autism .
In the research below , for the first time , aluminum levels from donor brains of people who did not have a neurodegenerative disease were compared with Alzheimer ’ s , multiple sclerosis , and autism .
Aluminium in human brain tissue from donors without neurodegenerative disease : A comparison with Alzheimer ’ s disease , multiple sclerosis and autism A burgeoning number of studies are demonstrating aluminium in human brain tissue .
While research has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brain tissue in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disease there are few similar data for brain tissue from non-neurologically impaired donors .
We have used microwave assisted acid digestion and transversely heated graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry to measure aluminium in twenty brains from donors without recognisable neurodegenerative disease .
The aluminium content of 191 tissue samples was invariably low with over 80 % of tissues having an aluminium content below 1.0 μg/g dry weight of tissue .
The data for these control tissues were compared with data ( measured using identical procedures ) for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alzheimer ’ s disease , autism spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis .
Further research is required to understand the role played by high levels of aluminium in the aetiology of human neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disease .

Autism is assumed to involve both genetic and environmental factors, including exposure to environmental toxins. The disorder is neurodevelopmental and causes are unknown, although human exposure to aluminium, a neurotoxin, has been linked to autism spectrum disorder.
The 2020 study highlighted below, involving the study of brains donated to science, is an open access article that may be shared freely. It builds on a 2018 published research article, “Aluminium in brain tissue in autism.”
In discussing results of that (2018) study on brains of individuals with autism, Dr. Christopher Exley reported that he and co-workers detected “some of the highest values for aluminum in human brain tissues yet recorded.”
The sample size was small, and the findings became controversial, particularly because many people pointed out that aluminum is used in vaccines.
The CDC says: “Aluminum-containing adjuvants are vaccine ingredients that have been used in vaccines since the 1930s. Small amounts of aluminum are added to help the body build stronger immunity against the germ in the vaccine.” Aluminum exposure can also occur through occupational exposures, the environment, and diet, as well as aluminum pans and utensils. The question is, what does it mean that levels are so high in specimens of those with autism.
In the research below, for the first time, aluminum levels from donor brains of people who did not have a neurodegenerative disease were compared with Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, and autism.
Aluminium in human brain tissue from donors without neurodegenerative disease: A comparison with Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and autism
Open Access; Published: 08 May 2020
A burgeoning number of studies are demonstrating aluminium in human brain tissue. While research has both quantified and imaged aluminium in human brain tissue in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disease there are few similar data for brain tissue from non-neurologically impaired donors.
We have used . . . spectrometry to measure aluminium in twenty brains from donors without recognisable neurodegenerative disease. The aluminium content of 191 tissue samples was invariably low with over 80% of tissues having an aluminium content below 1.0 μg/g dry weight of tissue.
The data for these control tissues were compared with data (measured using identical procedures) for sporadic Alzheimer’s disease, familial Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis.
Detailed statistical analyses showed that aluminium was significantly increased in each of these disease groups compared to control tissues. We have confirmed previous conclusions that the aluminium content of brain tissue in Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis is significantly elevated.
Further research is required to understand the role played by high levels of aluminium in the aetiology of human neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disease.
Full research report here


acnlatitudes--2020-08-06--7 Mistakes Parents Make with Tourette Syndrome

When I first started Latitudes.org , I was advised : “ Let people know know where you ’ re going , and if they aren ’ t interested , suggest they get off the bus.
” This list of “ mistakes ” is shared with that advice in mind .
If you are hoping to find integrative or natural approaches that could help reduce tic symptoms , you ’ re on the right bus .
If not , this article is not for you .
Please note that while this article focuses on parents looking to help their child , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have symptoms of Tourette syndrome .
As editor of Latitudes.org and director of ACN , I ’ ve had countless conversations with families who are searching for help in dealing with Tourette ’ s .
They want to know what they can do to avoid standard medications that have the potential for serious , negative side effects .
Together , we brainstormed possible solutions to their situation , and in follow up , discussed what challenges they encountered and what approaches did—or did not—work for them .
During these sessions , recurring themes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in finding solutions to tic symptoms .
I ’ d like to share some of those with you and provide recommended resources .
The list includes several common issues , although these are not the only stumbling blocks .
It ’ s not easy to break free from standard advice and search for answers on your own .
Congratulations on taking the first steps .
The list below is offered to help steer you in new directions .
Tourette syndrome has been proven to be both a genetic AND an environmental disorder .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ research community , it is ignored by conventional physicians in clinical practice , and that ’ s a major problem .
Environmental influences include issues like diet , nutrients , allergens , medications , infection , mental/emotional state , toxins , and more .
( See # 2 below for more on this . )
Unfortunately , conventional neurologists and pediatricians rarely address environmental factors for Tourette ’ s , aside from stress .
They seem to be unaware of research that links tics to allergies and immune functioning .
They don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one time and better at another .
They don ’ t look for “ causes ” of the tics in the same way that doctors typically look for what is causing a headache , or difficulty breathing , for example .
This is because they don ’ t question the out-dated concept that Tourette ’ s is a genetics-only disorder , even when this leaves them few options for successful treatment .
Depending on a child ’ s age and severity of tic symptoms , a doctor treating Tourette syndrome may recommend reducing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ therapy , or resorting to deep brain stimulation ( which requires electrodes to be implanted in the brain ) .
The worst part of this scenario is that doctors , while failing to provide help in this area , often discourage you from looking for your own answers to Tourette syndrome : • “ There ’ s nothing you can do.
” • “ Studies don ’ t support it.
” ( Editor : That ’ s because studies haven ’ t been done ! )
No one can guarantee that you will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many families report it was well worth the effort to try .
Read success stories on our website written by others for encouragement .
As you embark on this journey , be aware that family members may not be supportive .
Your child may have heard the doctor say diet doesn ’ t matter .
There will be challenges .
But keep your goal in mind and be strong in your resolve .
Not understanding what is meant by “ environmental factors ” We tend to think of the term environment as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But the word has a different meaning in medicine .
In medicine , your environment refers to just about everything outside genetics .
Consider what you eat , drink , breathe , touch , smell , and think or feel , as environmental factors .
There ’ s a medical field called “ Environmental Medicine ” that focuses in this area .
Being educated on this topic is valuable , because controlling troublesome environmental factors whenever possible can make a big difference in symptoms .
It can seem overwhelming to consider all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a role in developing or aggravating tics .
But you don ’ t have to absorb all the concepts at once , and we offer free worksheets to help you .
The more you learn , the more comfortable you will be with the approach .
And , the more likely you ’ ll be able to zero in on the environmental factors that are affecting your situation .
Here ’ s a way to think about the environment for tics Imagine you child woke up and then spent the next few hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You noticed that tics were mild when she woke up , but they are much more significant by noon .
An environmental review of this situation could include things like : • Did she sleep well ?
• Might she have cold or other infection ?
• What did she eat and drink for breakfast and snacks ?
• Did she take medications or supplements ?
• Did she play video games , watch TV , or spend time on a mobile device ?
• Are there scented candles or “ plug-ins ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Did she get exposed to a family member ’ s perfume or aftershave ?
• Is she worried ?
Did she get frustrated or have a problem with a sibling ?
• Did she play with a pet ?
• Are any of the rooms where she spent time moldy or dusty ?
• Did she encounter strong cleansers , scented detergents/fabric softener , or pesticides ?
These are just examples .
The approach is like solving a puzzle , and it can take time to get a clear picture of what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation .
Trust me , once you start the process will be second nature to explore what might be affecting her nervous system .
( See Mistake # 6 for more on this ) An environmental assessment moves your thinking beyond dietary change and nutritional supplements .
Both can be important , but you need to be more comprehensive .
Don ’ t overlook allergens and chemicals as nervous system triggers .
You might decide to change the diet , but if your child is reacting to something else , it will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the topics included in the questions above can potentially aggravate tics in some people .
Assuming Tourette ’ s is a single condition and everyone will respond in the same way We encourage families to share experiences in their search for answers to tic symptoms .
It ’ s a great way to find new solutions .
The more people who report that dietary change , or allergy control , or nutritional support , or “ going chemical-free or natural ” helped , for example , the more impetus there is for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have to remember , though , that people are biologically different .
Just looking at the different ways individuals react to the same medication confirms this .
It ’ s human nature to hope that if one child seemed better after taking B vitamins , or by staying off dairy ( just as examples ) , that your child will also benefit .
All things being equal , these approaches could truly help , if your child needed more B vitamins , or has an allergy or intolerance to dairy .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” or underlying issues , may be completely different .
Read successful reports to come up with ideas to explore , then expand those ideas to meet the needs of your situation .
Our latest book includes helpful insights from a large number of families , and explains more on identifying and removing triggers .
( Link below ) Focusing on only one intervention at a time There ’ s a theory that when looking at the effectiveness of interventions , you should only do one thing at a time so you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach has obvious value .
But there ’ s a big caveat .
For nervous system disorders like Tourette ’ s , it is rare that there is a single factor that is causing or aggravating the tics .
It ’ s possible , of course , but not typical .
I suggest using an approach I call “ leveling the playing field ” before you start in on key interventions you want to explore .
The goal with this is to remove some common tic triggers first , ones that could throw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ By taking some common sense steps that are a healthful for all of us , you will make your investigative work more fruitful .
Below is what I suggest in my book Stop Your Tics by Learning What Triggers Them .
• Eliminate foods/drinks with caffeine , artificial flavors , colors , and preservatives .
Read labels and try to be strict and consistent .
• Make a note now of any foods that , based on previous observation , you suspect might be aggravating tics .
Plan to avoid them .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including honey and maple syrup , and do not use artificial sweeteners like Nutrasweet/Equal .
• Replace chemically-scented products in the home with natural , unscented products .
• Create an allergy-free bedroom for the child .
• Reduce/limit television viewing , video games , and screen time throughout the day .
( Of course this is now a special challenge with online learning . )
• Use organic foods when possible , and give your child purified water .
After a couple of weeks with these efforts , make a note if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or severity .
Once your hunt for specific triggers is underway , continue with the above suggestions as best you can .
In it , Dr. Doris Rapp describes a young boy with a diagnosis of severe Tourette syndrome .
She tells how the family went on national television ( The Phil Donahue Show ) with her .
She explained that his tics were in response to allergens and other environmental factors .
With Dr. Rapp ’ s help the family was able to control his serious tics .
Neurologists and pediatricians don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gut-brain connection with tics .
That ’ s because they have not been taught that it exists .
More than 30 years ago , pioneering leaders like Drs William Crook , Doris Rapp , William Philpott , and Marshall Mandell emphasized the important role of intestinal health for nervous system and brain functioning .
They were lambasted and ridiculed by their peers .
Yet during the last 10 years , especially , research has piled up to clearly support these doctors ’ clinical findings .
Be aware that food allergies and sensitivities might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child ’ s tics .
For some , eating corn can set off tics .
For someone else , the worst offender may be red food dye .
Yet another may have to avoid gluen and a few other foods/drinks .
The list of potential offenders can be substantial .
Importantly , a yeast overgrowth such as Candida albicans can wreck havoc , increasing the negative response to foods .
While watching for food reactions , it ’ s wise to consider yeast overgrowth as underlying a gut-brain reaction .
All types of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase Candida albicans , a natural yeast that is present in everyone ’ s body .
When it is kept in check , it is harmless .
However , when it grows out of control , problems can ensue .
Friendly intestinal bacteria such as Bifidobacteria bifidum and Lactobaccillus acidophilus typically provide a balance to keep C albicans and other yeasts in check .
Besides improper diet and sweets , antibiotics , nutritional deficiencies , corticosteroids , and immune deficiencies can allow C albicans to increase out of control , resulting in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ below offers a concise explanation of how candida can be assessed and treated .
Failing to keep a log on foods , exposures , and symptoms Keeping a detailed log ( as best you can ! )
has been the answer for many parents .
It ’ s a good idea to keep a record of foods and drinks , exposures , and activities during the day , along with tic symptoms and whether they are better or worse .
Approaches vary , with some parents doing detailed recording of the times per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , others using a scale of 1 to 10 , while still others might create their own plan , such as just using a symbol , like an up or down arrow or smiley face to show if symptoms were better or worse .
Whatever works for you , please know that the exercise can be useful .
By writing things down , you have the chance to go back later and review your notations , looking for clues .
It may seem like a lot of work .
But let ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause of a condition that the medical community has no good answers for !
Your effort in itself is amazing .
Yes , it ’ s going to take some detective work , but you can pace yourself and just do as much as you are comfortable with .
I ’ ve had parents tell me it was easier to keep a log than to lie in bed at night in despair , assuming there was nothing they could do to help their child .
Ready-made charts ( for you and your child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
See the link below .
Trying to “ go it alone ” when professional help is needed Sometimes a case is too complex , or a parent too overwhelmed , to successfully undertake the trials needed to solve your child ’ s health issues .
The advice of an integrative practitioner can be invaluable in exploring new approaches , or in determining if specialized laboratory testing and/or medical intervention is required .
Being an “ investigator ” and implementing changes yourself may require more effort and energy than you have .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lend needed support in directing your efforts .
In some cases , physicians or practitioners skilled in nutritional medicine , chemical sensitivities , detoxification , immune function and allergy , infectious disease , bodywork , dentistry , or other fields may be helpful .
It all depends on what your child ’ s underlying health issues are that are part of the overall picture .
We cover these topics in our books .
To make this point , Dr. Doris Rapp often used the example of trying to relieve the pain of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foot hurts , you can try interventions like a salve or a bandaid , but if the problem stems from a nail in your shoe , you have to remove the nail .
Sometimes your own efforts will give you the solutions you are hoping for , but other times you ’ ll need to reach out for assistance to have the best outcome .
As you go on this journey to help your child , keep expanding your self-education .
If you hit a wall in your efforts , try to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again , and look for support .
Above all , keep an open mind .
You are your child ’ s best hope .

Is this the right bus for you?
When I first started Latitudes.org, I was advised: “Let people know know where you’re going, and if they aren’t interested, suggest they get off the bus.” A recent conversation inspired me to re-post this article, first offered a few years ago.
This list of seven “mistakes” is shared with that advice in mind.
If you are hoping to find integrative or natural approaches that could help reduce tic symptoms, you’re on the right bus. If not, this article is not for you.
Now, instead of using the term mistakes, I could have called them obstacles. Or pitfalls. Or oversights. These are all words to convey that there are issues that can block your progress as you try to reduce tics. But I wanted to make it clear that these truly are mistakes that can be remedied if you know to look out for them.
I have focused on parents of kids in this blog, but the information applies equally to adults with Tourette’s.
As I often point out, there’s no one answer for everyone, and no guarantee that you will find what you are looking for. But your chances for success are better if you have an understanding of the seven points below.
This is the advice I wish I had been given when my son’s Tourette syndrome symptoms first started. His condition gradually worsened until it was distressing for the whole family. Fortunately, I found the answers to healing that we needed. Once I did, I got on this bus and never got off. Meanwhile, thousands of others have joined me. You have to decide for yourself if this is the right bus for you.
Counseling and listening for 25+ years
As editor of Latitudes.org and director of ACN, I’ve had countless conversations with families who are searching for help in dealing with Tourette’s. They want to know what they can do to avoid standard medications that have the potential for serious, negative side effects.
Together, we brainstormed possible solutions to their situation, and in follow up, discussed what challenges they encountered and what approaches did—or did not—work for them.
During these sessions, recurring themes surfaced, themes that can impede progress in finding solutions to tic symptoms. I’d like to share some of those with you and provide recommended resources. The list includes several common issues, although these are not the only stumbling blocks.
If you see yourself in any of these “mistakes,” it’s understandable. After all, we count on conventional medicine and national advocacy groups for advice. Yet, for 40+ years these sources have failed us for Tourette syndrome. They dismiss the role of diet and other environmental links, without basis. The tic community has been indoctrinated with the false message that there’s little people can do to help control symptoms.
It’s not easy to break free from standard advice and search for answers on your own. Congratulations on taking the first steps. The list below is offered to help steer you in new directions.
Mistake #1 Bel ieving Tourette’s is solely a genetic disorder
Tourette syndrome has been proven to be both a genetic AND an environmental disorder. While this is accepted in the scientific research community, it is ignored by conventional physicians in clinical practice, and that’s a major problem.
Environmental influences include issues like diet, nutrients, allergens, medications, infection, mental/emotional state, toxins, and more. (See #2 below for more on this.)
Unfortunately, conventional neurologists and pediatricians rarely address environmental factors for Tourette’s, aside from stress. They seem to be unaware of research that links tics to allergies and immune functioning. They don’t question why symptoms are worse at one time and better at another. They don’t look for “causes” of the tics in the same way that doctors typically look for what is causing a headache, or difficulty breathing, for example. This is because they don’t question the out-dated concept that Tourette’s is a genetics-only disorder, even when this leaves them few options for successful treatment.
Depending on a child’s age and severity of tic symptoms, a doctor treating Tourette syndrome may recommend reducing stress, taking medications, pursuing behavioral therapy, or resorting to deep brain stimulation (which requires electrodes to be implanted in the brain).
The most beneficial and logical first step would be to find out what is triggering the tics, what is making them worse or allowing them to be better at different times. But that’s not the norm.
The worst part of this scenario is that doctors, while failing to provide help in this area, often discourage you from looking for your own answers to Tourette syndrome:
“Don’t get your hopes up.”
“Diet doesn’t make a difference.”
“It’s genetic. You’re wasting your time.”
“There’s nothing you can do.”
“Studies don’t support it.” (Editor: That’s because studies haven’t been done!)
Don’t fall into the “it’s all genetics” trap. It’s a dead end. This article offers several resources that can help you find answers that have the potential to change your child’s life.
No one can guarantee that you will find the answers you need. But many families report it was well worth the effort to try. Read success stories on our website written by others for encouragement.
As you embark on this journey, be aware that family members may not be supportive. Your child may have heard the doctor say diet doesn’t matter. There will be challenges. But keep your goal in mind and be strong in your resolve.
Mistake #2 Not understanding what is meant by “environmental factors”
We tend to think of the term environment as it relates to weather or climate change. But the word has a different meaning in medicine.
In medicine, your environment refers to just about everything outside genetics. Consider what you eat, drink, breathe, touch, smell, and think or feel, as environmental factors. There’s a medical field called “Environmental Medicine” that focuses in this area.
Being educated on this topic is valuable, because controlling troublesome environmental factors whenever possible can make a big difference in symptoms.
It can seem overwhelming to consider all of the types of issues that may play a role in developing or aggravating tics. But you don’t have to absorb all the concepts at once, and we offer free worksheets to help you. Also, the factors that affect your case may be limited–it’s not like you have to upend your lifestyle.
The more you learn, the more comfortable you will be with the approach. And, the more likely you’ll be able to zero in on the environmental factors that are affecting your situation.
Here’s a way to think about the environment for tics
Imagine you child woke up and then spent the next few hours at home, until lunch time. You noticed that tics were mild when she woke up, but they are much more significant by noon. An environmental review of this situation could include things like:
Did she sleep well?
Might she have cold or other infection?
What did she eat and drink for breakfast and snacks?
Did she take medications or supplements?
Did she play video games, watch TV, or spend time on a mobile device?
Are there scented candles or “plug-ins” in the rooms she was in?
Did she get exposed to a family member’s perfume or aftershave?
Is she worried? Did she get frustrated or have a problem with a sibling?
Did she play with a pet?
Are any of the rooms where she spent time moldy or dusty?
Did she encounter strong cleansers, scented detergents/fabric softener, or pesticides?
These are just examples. The approach is like solving a puzzle, and it can take time to get a clear picture of what’s going on in your particular situation. Trust me, once you start the process will be second nature to explore what might be affecting her nervous system. (See Mistake #6 for more on this)
To get started, one of the best things you can do is write down what she did or was exposed to, and document symptoms. Without a log, your efforts will be scattered and you may give up too soon.
An environmental assessment moves your thinking beyond dietary change and nutritional supplements. Both can be important, but you need to be more comprehensive.
Don’t overlook allergens and chemicals as nervous system triggers. You might decide to change the diet, but if your child is reacting to something else, it will be harder to see positive results.
All of the topics included in the questions above can potentially aggravate tics in some people.
Mistake #3 Assuming Tourette’s is a single condition and everyone will respond in the same way
We encourage families to share experiences in their search for answers to tic symptoms. It’s a great way to find new solutions. The more people who report that dietary change, or allergy control, or nutritional support, or “going chemical-free or natural” helped, for example, the more impetus there is for you to look in those directions.
We have to remember, though, that people are biologically different. Just looking at the different ways individuals react to the same medication confirms this.
It’s human nature to hope that if one child seemed better after taking B vitamins, or by staying off dairy (just as examples), that your child will also benefit. All things being equal, these approaches could truly help, if your child needed more B vitamins, or has an allergy or intolerance to dairy. But your youngster’s specific “triggers,” or underlying issues, may be completely different.
That doesn’t mean nutrient balancing and dietary change can’t help. It just means you need to be prepared to have a customized approach.
Read successful reports to come up with ideas to explore, then expand those ideas to meet the needs of your situation. Our latest book includes helpful insights from a large number of families, and explains more on identifying and removing triggers. (Link below)
Mistake # 4 Focusing on only one intervention at a time
There’s a theory that when looking at the effectiveness of interventions, you should only do one thing at a time so you can evaluate each one separately. This approach has obvious value. But there’s a big caveat.
For nervous system disorders like Tourette’s, it is rare that there is a single factor that is causing or aggravating the tics. It’s possible, of course, but not typical.
I suggest using an approach I call “leveling the playing field” before you start in on key interventions you want to explore. The goal with this is to remove some common tic triggers first, ones that could throw your observations off if left untouched.
Let’s say you decide to remove gluten from the diet as a test, but you don’t limit toxic exposures the child is sensitive to. This will make it harder to evaluate the impact of any dietary change.
By taking some common sense steps that are a healthful for all of us, you will make your investigative work more fruitful. Below is what I suggest in my book Stop Your Tics by Learning What Triggers Them.
Preliminary steps to level the playing field:
Eliminate foods/drinks with caffeine, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Read labels and try to be strict and consistent.
Make a note now of any foods that, based on previous observation, you suspect might be aggravating tics. Plan to avoid them.
Cut way back on sweetened foods, including honey and maple syrup, and do not use artificial sweeteners like Nutrasweet/Equal.
Replace chemically-scented products in the home with natural, unscented products.
Create an allergy-free bedroom for the child.
Reduce/limit television viewing, video games, and screen time throughout the day. (Of course this is now a special challenge with online learning.)
Use organic foods when possible, and give your child purified water.
After a couple of weeks with these efforts, make a note if you see tics are reduced in frequency or severity. Once your hunt for specific triggers is underway, continue with the above suggestions as best you can.
The recommendation below is a classic book on environmental medicine that will open your eyes and serve as great introduction to the topic. An international best-seller, it was printed in 1991 and remains a fantastic resource for understanding environmental medicine.
In it, Dr. Doris Rapp describes a young boy with a diagnosis of severe Tourette syndrome. She tells how the family went on national television (The Phil Donahue Show) with her. She explained that his tics were in response to allergens and other environmental factors. With Dr. Rapp’s help the family was able to control his serious tics.
Mistake #5 Ignoring the critical gut-brain connection
Neurologists and pediatricians don’t usually instruct families about a gut-brain connection with tics. That’s because they have not been taught that it exists.
More than 30 years ago, pioneering leaders like Drs William Crook, Doris Rapp, William Philpott, and Marshall Mandell emphasized the important role of intestinal health for nervous system and brain functioning. They were lambasted and ridiculed by their peers. Yet during the last 10 years, especially, research has piled up to clearly support these doctors’ clinical findings.
Be aware that food allergies and sensitivities might be playing a key role in your child’s tics. For some, eating corn can set off tics. For someone else, the worst offender may be red food dye. Yet another may have to avoid gluen and a few other foods/drinks. The list of potential offenders can be substantial.
Importantly, a yeast overgrowth such as Candida albicans can wreck havoc, increasing the negative response to foods. While watching for food reactions, it’s wise to consider yeast overgrowth as underlying a gut-brain reaction.
All types of regular sweets or sweeteners are reported to increase Candida albicans, a natural yeast that is present in everyone’s body. When it is kept in check, it is harmless. However, when it grows out of control, problems can ensue.
Friendly intestinal bacteria such as Bifidobacteria bifidum and Lactobaccillus acidophilus typically provide a balance to keep C albicans and other yeasts in check. Besides improper diet and sweets, antibiotics, nutritional deficiencies, corticosteroids, and immune deficiencies can allow C albicans to increase out of control, resulting in an imbalance in intestinal flora.
One consequence of this overgrowth is leaky gut syndrome, in which the lining of the intestinal tract is damaged, allowing food-related substances to enter the bloodstream and create numerous health problems. C albicans overgrowth can play a significant role in ADHD, OCD, depression, tic disorders, and autism, along with a number of autoimmune conditions.
The reference below offers a concise explanation of how candida can be assessed and treated.
Mistake #6 Failing to keep a log on foods, exposures, and symptoms
Keeping a detailed log (as best you can!) has been the answer for many parents. It’s a good idea to keep a record of foods and drinks, exposures, and activities during the day, along with tic symptoms and whether they are better or worse.
Approaches vary, with some parents doing detailed recording of the times per minute or per hour of some tics, others using a scale of 1 to 10, while still others might create their own plan, such as just using a symbol, like an up or down arrow or smiley face to show if symptoms were better or worse.
Whatever works for you, please know that the exercise can be useful. By writing things down, you have the chance to go back later and review your notations, looking for clues.
It may seem like a lot of work. But let’s be real. You are investigating the cause of a condition that the medical community has no good answers for! Your effort in itself is amazing. Yes, it’s going to take some detective work, but you can pace yourself and just do as much as you are comfortable with.
I’ve had parents tell me it was easier to keep a log than to lie in bed at night in despair, assuming there was nothing they could do to help their child.
Ready-made charts (for you and your child) can help you with this effort. See the link below.
Mistake # 7 Trying to “go it alone” when professional help is needed
Sometimes a case is too complex, or a parent too overwhelmed, to successfully undertake the trials needed to solve your child’s health issues.
The advice of an integrative practitioner can be invaluable in exploring new approaches, or in determining if specialized laboratory testing and/or medical intervention is required.
Being an “investigator” and implementing changes yourself may require more effort and energy than you have. That’s where an expert practitioner can lend needed support in directing your efforts.
In some cases, physicians or practitioners skilled in nutritional medicine, chemical sensitivities, detoxification, immune function and allergy, infectious disease, bodywork, dentistry, or other fields may be helpful. It all depends on what your child’s underlying health issues are that are part of the overall picture. We cover these topics in our books .
To make this point, Dr. Doris Rapp often used the example of trying to relieve the pain of a sore on your foot. If your foot hurts, you can try interventions like a salve or a bandaid, but if the problem stems from a nail in your shoe, you have to remove the nail.
Sometimes your own efforts will give you the solutions you are hoping for, but other times you’ll need to reach out for assistance to have the best outcome.
As you go on this journey to help your child, keep expanding your self-education. If you hit a wall in your efforts, try to avoid frustration. Take a break and start again, and look for support. Above all, keep an open mind. You are your child’s best hope.


acnlatitudes--2020-08-08--7 Mistakes Parents Make with Tourette Syndrome


acnlatitudes--2020-11-28--Meds for Tics and OCD Almost Killed My Son—Natural Treatments Saved Him

We raised our son in a beautiful area of Florida ; people come from around the world to vacation here .
But for us , we didn ’ t care in the least where we were living .
We just wanted to spare our son the intense pain he was going through .
When he was 10 years old , our son David almost died from debilitating conventional medications for a serious case of Tourette syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD ) .
Fortunately , with professional help and self-determination , David was weaned from those drugs , and was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost losing our son I feel a moral obligation to share our story .
I pray that others who may be in need of answers , as we were , may find the path they need .
Our son has genetically-inherited Tourette syndrome .
The initial symptoms came on gradually , starting at around age five .
Initial tics were eye-rolling and throat-clearing .
A practitioner advised us that David ’ s eye-rolling was due to his weak vision , for which he got corrective glasses .
His throat-clearing was dismissed as allergies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very bright and artistic , an educational psychologist said he had attention deficit disorder .
He also received a diagnosis of central auditory processing disorder and sensory dysfunction .
He was given an Individual Educational Plan at school .
About two years later , symptoms worsened .
It was just before David ’ s 10th birthday .
Multiple severe tics ( including some that were self-injurious ) , major OCD symptoms , and depression came on very suddenly .
Along with this were anxiety and incredibly intense symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outgoing , bright , and social to being withdrawn , anxious , antisocial , phobic , and disinterested in everything .
Examples of his OCD were repetitive actions to get things “ just right , ” obsessive fears , and phobias .
A pediatric psychiatrist later told us that David exhibited “ Tourettic OCD , ” a condition in which tics and OCD tend to morph into one another .
We took David to a neurologist , who diagnosed Tourette syndrome and recommended the antipsychotic medication Haldol .
We were initially resistant to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from his school , we relented .
( Editor : Haldol used to be the medication of choice for Tourette syndrome and is now used less often due to safety concerns . )
David was on standard prescription medication for almost a year but experienced nasty side effects .
The drug therapy did not make much of an improvement with his tics , and it worsened his obsessive-compulsive tendencies considerably .
Haldol left him “ zombified , ” with no motivation .
Eventually , it resulted in a drug-induced psychosis , for which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment he received in the hospital included more medications , including Luvox ( an antidepressant ) and Zyprexa ( an atypical antipsychotic ) .
Things went from bad to horrifying .
When I suggested it was the Haldol that was making him psychotic , they treated me like an ignorant hysterical person .
But I had already started reading Peter Breggin ’ s book Your Drug May Be Your Problem .
When they released David back into my care , I started taking him to Dr. Tanya Murphy at Shands Clinic in Gainesville @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PANDAS evaluation ( it was negative ) .
But her team also helped wean him off the medications .
Meanwhile , I had to withdraw him from school .
One day I went to visit a friend who did art therapy for terminally-ill patients .
She had a print copy of the Latitudes newsletter on her table , and the rest is history .
( Latitudes is now online-only . )
After reading the first issue , for the first time I had hope that we would find help .
I will always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Latitudes newsletters gave me .
In fact , out of gratitude , I remain a member of Latitudes.org to support it , even though we no longer need it for ourselves .
I share the website and director Sheila DeMare ’ s books whenever I can .
We began natural therapies that I truly believed saved his life–no hyperbole !
We saw an integrative medical doctor who was trained conventionally but specialized in natural medicine .
She and her team worked together on my son ’ s testing and treatment .
No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to learn what was actually causing David ’ s imbalances .
The whole process was a real eye-opener and made so much sense .
One of his doctors found David had high mercury levels , and efforts began to detoxify him from heavy metals .
We relied mostly on a chlorella supplement , followed by the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid .
During this time , he was also seeing an excellent acupuncture therapist specializing in other natural therapies like reflexology , Chinese cupping detox , and biofeedback resonance therapy .
Notably , a doctor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his digestive tract .
I understand this is not a unique finding , with many families and integrative practitioners reporting the same .
In my son ’ s case , we found Candida Clear by the supplement company NOW to effectively eradicate the candida .
( The product contains herbs and caprylic acid , a fatty acid . )
He was also on a protocol of vitamins , minerals , and amino acids approved by his doctor .
Of these , I always suspected that magnesium seemed the most effective in helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connection , I also found Epsom salt baths were beneficial .
For years , David had a bath most evenings with 2 cups Epsom salts in a tub of warm water and approximately a 20-minute soak .
He drank cupfuls of pure water or chamomile tea while in the tub , too .
He used Epsom salt foot baths and sometimes soaked a washcloth in a strong Epsom solution and applied it to troublesome tic areas on his body .
He told me this brought relief .
The efforts described above greatly improved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food-related and environmental triggers through trial and error .
These could aggravate or trigger David ’ s tics and OCD behaviors .
We learned that foods with these items could increase David ’ s tics .
The degree of response seemed to depend on his overall health , stress level , energy , other exposures , etc .
• Artificial sweeteners like Nutrasweet ( also known as aspartame ) and Splenda ( sucralose ) We had allergy tests conducted and did a process of food elimination to rule out any food allergies .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have any natural food allergies per se , though he does have a mild peanut sensitivity .
I ’ m aware that some people are allergic to or have sensitivities to any number of foods like dairy , wheat ( gluten ) , corn , tomato , banana , or beef , etc.
, and reactions to these can aggravate tics .
I ’ ve read that the list of potential food triggers others have reported is wide-ranging and depends on the individual .
My son was able to identify other tic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , by his observations .
These included chlorine ( he avoids swimming pools now ) and most strong smells , like perfumes , household cleaners , and air fresheners .
He also reacts negatively to dust mites and mold exposure .
Some years later , we saw an excellent allergist who ran extensive tests and diagnosed David with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity , which helped explain much of his extreme reactivity , including to the many chemicals used to make conventional pharmaceuticals !
As mentioned before , David showed hypersensitivity to sensory items related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sight , and sounds from a young age .
We enrolled him in specialized occupational therapy at age 9 for six months , and that helped reduce the extent of his sensitivities .
We learned techniques like skin brushing and other helpful skills to assist in reducing his hypersensitivity .
I ’ ve heard from many folks with Tourette ’ s who complain of sensory factors or who have a diagnosis of Sensory Integration Dysfunction .
That said , even though he is doing very well now , David still removes all labels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wears his sox inside out because the seams drive him nuts !
Acupuncture has been a help to David , as has reflexology and biofeedback .
He has also seen a chiropractor specializing in upper cervical chiropractic work ( see www.nucca.org ) .
This practitioner used gentle pressure methods to help re-align David ’ s neck and upper spine area .
Ticcing of the head , neck , shoulders , etc.
, can result in skeletal misalignment .
Misalignments , in turn , can lead to painful neuromuscular problems that we found could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cognitive behavioral therapy for the OCD , starting age 11 .
Now a young adult , David maintains a healthy diet , plus he takes supplements such as vitamins , minerals , herbs , and certain amino acids as his “ treatments.
” He also studiously avoids triggers that could increase his tics and OCD symptoms .
Gratefully , he has regained his outgoing , social nature , enjoys pursuing his musical and artistic talents , and has a good job .
Most of his friends and co-workers are unaware that he has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That ’ s how beneficial the natural treatment approach has been for my son .
I shudder when I recall how when he was just 10 years old , a doctor told us David would need to be institutionalized .
The conventional treatments created his most severe and frightening symptoms .
Natural therapies brought hope and healing .
The name of the author of this article is being withheld to protect family privacy .

DAVID’S MOTHER
We raised our son in a beautiful area of Florida; people come from around the world to vacation here. But for us, we didn’t care in the least where we were living. We just wanted to spare our son the intense pain he was going through.
When he was 10 years old, our son David almost died from debilitating conventional medications for a serious case of Tourette syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Fortunately, with professional help and self-determination, David was weaned from those drugs, and was then healed through natural approaches.
After almost losing our son I feel a moral obligation to share our story. I pray that others who may be in need of answers, as we were, may find the path they need.
David’s early health journey
Our son has genetically-inherited Tourette syndrome. The initial symptoms came on gradually, starting at around age five.
Initial tics were eye-rolling and throat-clearing. A practitioner advised us that David’s eye-rolling was due to his weak vision, for which he got corrective glasses. His throat-clearing was dismissed as allergies. Next, although our son was very bright and artistic, an educational psychologist said he had attention deficit disorder. He also received a diagnosis of central auditory processing disorder and sensory dysfunction. He was given an Individual Educational Plan at school.
About two years later, symptoms worsened. It was just before David’s 10th birthday. Multiple severe tics (including some that were self-injurious), major OCD symptoms, and depression came on very suddenly. Along with this were anxiety and incredibly intense symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Our son went from being outgoing, bright, and social to being withdrawn, anxious, antisocial, phobic, and disinterested in everything.
Examples of his OCD were repetitive actions to get things “just right,” obsessive fears, and phobias. A pediatric psychiatrist later told us that David exhibited “Tourettic OCD,” a condition in which tics and OCD tend to morph into one another.
We took David to a neurologist, who diagnosed Tourette syndrome and recommended the antipsychotic medication Haldol. We were initially resistant to it, but sadly, under pressure from his school, we relented. (Editor: Haloperidol or Haldol used to be the medication of choice for Tourette syndrome, and is now used less often due to safety concerns.)
David was on standard prescription medication for almost a year but experienced nasty side effects. The drug therapy did not make much of an improvement with his tics, and it worsened his obsessive-compulsive tendencies considerably. Haldol left him “zombified,” with no motivation. Eventually, it resulted in a drug-induced psychosis, for which he was hospitalized.
Unfortunately, the treatment he received in the hospital included more medications, including Luvox (an antidepressant) and Zyprexa (an atypical antipsychotic). Things went from bad to horrifying.
At one point, David was strapped to a hospital bed to control his movements, biting his bottom lip in an uncontrollable repetitive tic. The staff was actually infusing Haldol into him! When I begged them to stop, the doctor said “It’s either this or we transfer him to the Psych Ward. You just have to be prepared that he may need a long-term institution.”
When I suggested it was the Haldol that was making him psychotic, they treated me like an ignorant hysterical person. But I had already started reading Peter Breggin’s book Your Drug May Be Your Problem.
Gaining control
When they released David back into my care, I started taking him to Dr. Tanya Murphy at Shands Clinic in Gainesville. Initially, I went for a PANDAS evaluation (it was negative). But her team also helped wean him off the medications. Meanwhile, I had to withdraw him from school.
One day I went to visit a friend who did art therapy for terminally-ill patients. She had a print copy of the Latitudes newsletter on her table, and the rest is history. (Latitudes is now online-only.) After reading the first issue, for the first time I had hope that we would find help.
I will always be grateful for the encouragement and direction the Latitudes newsletters gave me. In fact, out of gratitude, I remain a member of Latitudes.org to support it, even though we no longer need it for ourselves. I share the website and director Sheila DeMare’s books whenever I can.
We began natural therapies that I truly believed saved his life–no hyperbole! We saw an integrative medical doctor who was trained conventionally but specialized in natural medicine. She and her team worked together on my son’s testing and treatment.
No one before this had made any effort to learn what was actually causing David’s imbalances. The whole process was a real eye-opener and made so much sense.
One of his doctors found David had high mercury levels, and efforts began to detoxify him from heavy metals. We relied mostly on a chlorella supplement, followed by the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid. During this time, he was also seeing an excellent acupuncture therapist specializing in other natural therapies like reflexology, Chinese cupping detox, and biofeedback resonance therapy.
Notably, a doctor identified a yeast overgrowth of Candida albicans in his digestive tract. I understand this is not a unique finding, with many families and integrative practitioners reporting the same. In my son’s case, we found Candida Clear by the supplement company NOW to effectively eradicate the candida. (The product contains herbs and caprylic acid, a fatty acid.)
He was also on a protocol of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids approved by his doctor. Of these, I always suspected that magnesium seemed the most effective in helping to calm his tics. In that connection, I also found Epsom salt baths were beneficial. For years, David had a bath most evenings with 2 cups Epsom salts in a tub of warm water and approximately a 20-minute soak. He drank cupfuls of pure water or chamomile tea while in the tub, too. He used Epsom salt foot baths and sometimes soaked a washcloth in a strong Epsom solution and applied it to troublesome tic areas on his body. He told me this brought relief.
A valuable discovery: David’s tic triggers
The efforts described above greatly improved symptoms. Still, we discovered many food-related and environmental triggers through trial and error. These could aggravate or trigger David’s tics and OCD behaviors.
Food-related triggers
We learned that foods with these items could increase David’s tics. The degree of response seemed to depend on his overall health, stress level, energy, other exposures, etc.
Synthetic food coloring
Synthetic food flavorings
Artificial sweeteners like Nutrasweet (also known as aspartame) and Splenda (sucralose)
Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
Chemical preservatives like benzoates, nitrites, sulfites, and sorbates
High fructose corn syrup
We had allergy tests conducted and did a process of food elimination to rule out any food allergies. Fortunately, David doesn’t seem to have any natural food allergies per se, though he does have a mild peanut sensitivity. I’m aware that some people are allergic to or have sensitivities to any number of foods like dairy, wheat (gluten), corn, tomato, banana, or beef, etc., and reactions to these can aggravate tics.
I’ve read that the list of potential food triggers others have reported is wide-ranging and depends on the individual.
Environmental and Sensory Triggers
My son was able to identify other tic triggers, in addition to food-related ones, by his observations. These included chlorine (he avoids swimming pools now) and most strong smells, like perfumes, household cleaners, and air fresheners. He also reacts negatively to dust mites and mold exposure.
Some years later, we saw an excellent allergist who ran extensive tests and diagnosed David with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, which helped explain much of his extreme reactivity, including to the many chemicals used to make conventional pharmaceuticals!
Other approaches that helped
As mentioned before, David showed hypersensitivity to sensory items related to taste, smell, touch, sight, and sounds from a young age. We enrolled him in specialized occupational therapy at age 9 for six months, and that helped reduce the extent of his sensitivities. We learned techniques like skin brushing and other helpful skills to assist in reducing his hypersensitivity. I’ve heard from many folks with Tourette’s who complain of sensory factors or who have a diagnosis of Sensory Integration Dysfunction. That said, even though he is doing very well now, David still removes all labels from inside his clothing, and he wears his sox inside out because the seams drive him nuts!
Acupuncture has been a help to David, as has reflexology and biofeedback. He has also seen a chiropractor specializing in upper cervical chiropractic work (see www.nucca.org). This practitioner used gentle pressure methods to help re-align David’s neck and upper spine area. Ticcing of the head, neck, shoulders, etc., can result in skeletal misalignment. Misalignments, in turn, can lead to painful neuromuscular problems that we found could trigger other tics. He also had cognitive behavioral therapy for the OCD, starting age 11.
I should point out that no single intervention was a “silver bullet, “and we needed to take a comprehensive approach to achieve the physical and emotional success that my son has enjoyed. It has been an ongoing effort, but it was so very much worth it.
Life today
Now a young adult, David maintains a healthy diet, plus he takes supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, and certain amino acids as his “treatments.” He also studiously avoids triggers that could increase his tics and OCD symptoms.
Gratefully, he has regained his outgoing, social nature, enjoys pursuing his musical and artistic talents, and has a good job. Most of his friends and co-workers are unaware that he has Tourette’s unless he tells them. That’s how beneficial the natural treatment approach has been for my son.
I shudder when I recall how when he was just 10 years old, a doctor told us David would need to be institutionalized. The conventional treatments created his most severe and frightening symptoms. Natural therapies brought hope and healing.
The name of the author of this article is being withheld to protect family privacy.