How Detox Can Help in the Treatment of PANDAS
Detox was the first thing I discovered and researched on our PANDAS journey. When the immune system kills pathogens, toxins are released into the body. The body has a way of removing these toxins, but sometimes, it becomes overwhelmed and can’t keep up. Other times, the body is lacking in nutrients necessary for removing these toxins. There are some things you can do to help the body when this happens. I think detox is a vital part of the initial treatment. I wished I would have known this during my son’s first major flare of PANDAS. Looking back, I know that his little body was struggling to remove all the toxins after an especially bad strep throat infection. The die-off when he started antibiotics was dramatic and made him more sick.
I have theorized that many kiddos with PANDAS are poor at detoxing. My guess is that is lies in their genetics. DNA holds the recipe for all of the processes in your body. If your detoxing recipe is not quite up to par, then you may detox poorly. The problem is there are a lot of toxins constantly in our environment that our body has to deal with. Add in an infection and the body is easily tipped overboard. I am listing some gentle ways that should be safe for most, but always use caution when trying something new. Start low and go slow.
Epsom Salt Baths
Epsom salt is a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. Magnesium plays a significant role in detoxification. Our body’s antioxidant, glutathione, requires magnesium for its synthesis. Sulfate, compromised of sulfur and oxygen, in the body also aids in detoxification. Sulfate levels in the body are linked to sun exposure like vitamin D. Small amounts of the magnesium sulfate are absorbed by the skin while soaking in the epsom salt bath, and the pair make a great detoxifying partners.
If you child flares from epsom salt baths, then there could be a couple of explanations. It could be that the detoxing is too strong for him or her. Try a less concentrated bath. Also, make sure they drink plenty of water. If they still react poorly, then it is possible that they have a sulfur sensitivity. An alternative would be a baking soda bath.
Vitamin C
I can’t say enough good things about vitamin C. It has been researched as a powerful antioxidant and has been shown to protect cells. It, also, has antimicrobial properties. It is a water soluble vitamin but has been shown to have adverse effects at greater than 3000mg daily in adults. Too high of doses will usually cause gastric upset. Liposomal vitamin C is an option. It has been shown to be better absorbed than traditional vitamin C. I prefer Mary Ruth’s brand.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is made by heating charcoal in the presence of gas. It is ground up and put in capsules to be swallowed. Pores in the charcoal trap toxins, and it is used medically in instances of swallowed poison. You must drink plenty of water while taking activated charcoal, or it can cause constipation. Also, it will bind to nutrients, medicines, or supplements. To avoid this, it should be taken in-between meals and a couple of hours away from medication.
NAC
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an amino acid. It is a powerful antioxidant and is used medically in acetaminophen poisoning. Also, NAC can thin mucus, improve lung and liver function, act as an antiviral, and help stabilize moods. It can cause gas and some upset stomach upon starting. I have heard that some kids don’t tolerate it well and that makes it especially important to start low and go slow.
I discovered NAC after analyzing my son’s DNA. It was a recommended supplement for a genetic mutation he has. It has been a very helpful supplement for us. The FDA recently released some information on NAC, and in response, Amazon stopped selling it. Currently, you can still purchase through a few websites. Pure Encapsulations and Thorne are two reputable brands.
Removing Toxins and No Acetaminophen
A great no risk way to help your child detox is to remove any toxins from his or her environment that you can. Consider things in their environment. Can you change cleaning supplies to something less invasive? Maybe, you can eat organic for awhile, or change laundry detergents. These changes don’t necessarily need to be permanent, but may help you child’s immune system calm down. Hopefully, some changes will reduce their flare-up.
Last thought here is don’t give acetaminophen, brand name Tylenol. Acetaminophen interferes with the body’s natural detoxification cycle. Because of this, it is a good idea to avoid acetaminophen during times of flares or while taking antibiotic, antiviral or anti-fungal medication.