Posted by Fuscia on July 7, 2002, at 12:44:08
In reply to Re: Vitamin B's -TD exasperbation? » Kari, posted by Chloe on July 5, 2002, at 22:16:02
Hi,
I thought it very interesting concerning the B-vitamins and an increase in tics.
From what I know about the B-vitamins is that they are needed from proper brain function as well as act as coenzymes, helping enzymes to react chemically with other substances, and are invovled in energy production. This may be great for those with depression or anxiety, but for those with Tourette's Syndrome or movement disorders, it can stimulate tics. Tourette's Syndrome is thought to be caused by an abnormality with dopamine, or other brain neurotransmitters. Certain of the B vitamins are involved in the synthesis of dopamine, such as B-6. And, all the B vitamins work together, for when there is a deficiency in one often indicates a deficiency in another. The average B-complex supplement I would think is too much for someone with tardive diskenesia or tics. It would be better to get your B-vitamins from your diet. You might consider trying Nutritional yeast or Brewer's yeast as a source of B-vitamins, since it also contains healthy amounts of the amino acids that can be very helpful with brain function.
As for B 6 vitamin, I don't take over 50mg of this supplement daily, and I don't take it daily, but every other day or so. I'm not one to take vitamins on a daily basis, but every other day works for me. I have depression and anxiety.
For those who must take the drug levodopa the following foods should be consumed in moderation only: bananas, beef, fish, liver, oatmeal, peanuts, potatoes, and whole grains in moderation, as these foods contain vitamin B 6, which interferes with the drug's potency. And one should not take supplemental B 6, as it counteracts the drug's therapeutic effects.
A good choice to reduce tics is calcium. Use calcium citrate form with vitamin D. Has a relaxing effect. It can be taken on an empty stomach and is great taken at bedtime. Magnesium is also important as it calms the nervous system and muscle spasms. Take 700 mg daily, in divided doses. Take between meals, on an empty stomach, with apple cider vinegar or betaine HCI. Selenium is important as well. Do not take more than 40 mcg daily if you are pregnant. The amino acid taurine is helpful, as directed on label. Supplemental tyrosine amino acid as well as superoxide dismutase may be of help as well. SOD is an enzyme that revitalises cells and reducs the rate of cell destruction. Another excellent source of this is found in barley grass. I use the product Magma Plus by Green Foods. It costs more than other brands, but it tastes the best. It is best taken on an empty stomach 2 hours after a meal, or 20 minutes prior a meal. Store in fridge.
Take care and hope this helps, Fuscia
poster:Fuscia
thread:111449
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020628/msgs/111671.html