TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

The Nutritional Approach

This is likely that inflammation is a factor in both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Essential fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties. Patients with neurological disorders should increase their intake of fatty fish, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids (see An Individualized Diet.), while simultaneously eliminating other animal fats. A mixture of omega-6 (evening primrose oil, borage, and pumpkin seeds) and omega-3 (fish and flaxseed) fatty acids may be the best choice. A low-protein diet may help control tremors, however tyrosine, an amino acid found in meats, dairy and eggs, increases dopamine turnover. Patients with Parkinson’s may be deficient in this neurotransmitter. At Fratellone Medical Associates, we focus on testing urine samples to measure the level of dopamine; if deficient, we supplement with liquid tyrosine.

Supplements

The B vitamins, especially vitamin B6 may help control symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, but should be given with zinc to counteract the ability of B6 to interfere with L-dopa metabolism. Patients with Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s typically have low levels of glutathione. Because oral supplementation is not sufficient, the protocol in our practice is to administer glutathione intravenously. It is also known that choline increases brain function and various forms are recommended. Dr. Fratellone was one of the first physicians to use intravenous phosphatidylcholine (known as Plaquex®; See The Plaquex Program) to treat both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. We also use urine samples to measure other neurotransmitters made from amino acids such as GABA and glutamic acid, and prescribe individualized supplementation based on those results.

Herbs

Herbs are a generally safe way to enhance the immune system, which is compromised by neurological disorders.  Gotu kola has been traditionally used to treat Parkinson’s, and ginkgo has been shown to increase cerebral vascular insufficiency, making it useful for Alzheimer’s.  The nervine herbs such as skullcap, St. John’s wort and lemon balm support the nervous system and are used to treat both PD and AD. Ginseng may also be used but is contraindicated in the presence of hypertension.

Chelation

Toxicity with lead, mercury and aluminum has been implicated in both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. For this reason, Fratellone Medical Associates utilizes chelation therapy (also see Chelation Therapy), after prescribing a six-hour urine challenge test to establish heavy metal levels. We employ intravenous chelating agents such as EDTA and DMPS to remove these heavy metals from the body, which may help restore normal circulation to the brain.

Mood Disorders:

Depression  is a mood disorder in which the inevitable life experiences of loss, anger, upset and frustration outweigh a person’s ability to effectively cope with daily life. There are many different types of depression and the condition can range from moderate to severe.
Anxiety is recognized as a chronic psychiatric disorder characterized by an excessive worry or fear. Symptoms can begin in the early teens; severity fluctuates considerably over time.

Treatment for Mood Disorders

Conventional treatment options vary depending upon the class of mediations used. For depression, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) are widely prescribed, In the case of anxiety, benzodiazepines are the most commonly used. But powerful mood-altering drugs are not the only alternative to treating mood disorders.

Nutritional Approaches

At Fratellone Medical Associates, we look for vitamin deficiencies that may be implicated in depression and anxiety.  Vitamin B12 and folic acid are both useful in treating these conditions. The elderly are particularly at risk for deficiencies in these important nutrients, which require proper digestion for optimal utilization. Dark green leafy vegetables are a good source of folate, as are lentils and other legumes. Vitamin B12 is found primarily in meat, eggs and dairy.

Supplements

Depression depletes the body of essential fatty acids, so supplementing with omega-3s and omega-6s is essential. An excess of vanadium is also associated with depression, so levels should be measured. Treatment for and excess of vanadium depends on the level measured.   Amino acids can be used to increase low levels of neurotransmitters. We measure neurotransmitter levels in urine; if necessary, serotonin levels can be supplemented with 5-hydroxytryptophan. Supplementation with various amino acids such as cysteine can be used to address high levels of norepinephrine and/or epinephrine. Amino acids can also be used to balance the ratio of norepinephrine to epinephrine.

Herbs
 
The herb most commonly used to treat depression is St. John’s wort, which has been shown in numerous studies to be help with mild to moderate depression. Side effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms, rash and headache may occur. Both valerian and kava kava have been used to treat anxiety. Both passionflower and lemon balm have been used to treat emotional upheaval associated with anxiety.

Psychotherapy and More

Finally, psychotherapy, including interpersonal and cognitive-based therapies, can prove helpful for both depression and anxiety. Fratellone Medical Associates offers psychotherapy and also refers patients to other clinical practitioners. Exercise, including Tai Chi and yoga, as well as meditation and massage may also prove helpful.