One of the main reasons why clients call to make an appointment for an IV infusion at our clinic is “fatigue”. It could be a general lack of energy, brain fog or even muscles, which tire easily with minimal effort.
The way I think of “fatigue” is that it is an energy imbalance. Cells DEMAND more energy than those same cells can SUPPLY.
Take a moment first and think about that statement! It’s more profound than it sounds.
When I was personally faced with fatigue I had to stop to ask myself: Why aren’t I able to make enough energy? What aspect of my life is consuming so many resources? Is it an infection? Is it toxicity? Is it a hormonal imbalance? Worrying thoughts? How long can I keep going like this before something else breaks down?
In Part 1 of this discussion I will cover how cells make energy first, and then how we can test and re-balance, based on results, the nutrients needed to restore proper energy production.
How Cells Make Energy:
Our bodies make energy in the form of ATP. This is the molecule that the body uses as the energy “currency” in every cell kind of like spending dollars to buy food, gas etc.. ATP it is made in our cells in the Mitochondria.
Mitochondria are the little brown “organelles” pictured above, often referred to as “intracellular powerhouses” inside of our cells which are thought to be related to ancient bacteria that have since become permanent residents of our cells. Think of them as tiny energy producing organisms residing in each of our cells. Some cells which use a lot of energy (muscles) have thousands of mitochondria whereas other cells may have very only a few hundred. Mitochondria even have their own DNA and protective “cell” membrane. They are essentially “cells within our cells” that help us make all of our energy!
You CAN damage mitochondria and they can even die when exposed to antibiotics and free radicals (more on that and what you can do about it in the next post). Interestingly we get almost all of our mitochondria from our mothers, as sperm cells from our fathers do not have much mitochondria to donate. Thanks Mom!
Fatigue and Mitochondria:
Energy production in mitochondria is absolutely essential to sustain life itself and it plays a part in anything from physical strength, to endurance and alertness. Even a slight decrease in the production of energy from mitochondria can quickly manifest as physical weakness, inability to concentrate (brain fog) and fatigue.Understandably this is where all the action is and I have to explain a little bit of how it works.
It’s in the mitochondria that the food we eat in the form of protein, fats and carbohydrates finally gets converted to energy in the form of ATP.
This is a complicated process with a lot of complex biochemical reactions in which quite a few things can go wrong. It’s made of two parts: The Citric Acid Cycle and the Electron Transport Chain. The Citric Acid Cycle feeds molecules such as NADH FADH2 to the Electron Transport Cycle where Oxygen is used to make most of the ATP.
For each of the complicated steps above there’s a protein (enzyme) which moves the process forward. However our mitochondria also need Co-Factors, i.e. “Helpers” for these enzymes to do their job as without the co-factors everything comes down to a halt. Look for these “Helpers” in the green circles in the figure above.
What are the Co-Factors “Helpers” needed for the mitochondria to make energy?
1. B-complex, meaning all of the B vitamins, but especially B1, B2 and B3
2. Magnesium (a mineral)
3. Zinc (a mineral)
4. Manganese (a mineral)
5. Glutathione (the master antioxidant)
6. NAD (derived from Vitamin B3).
7. Alpha Lipoic Acid (aka. Lipoate, an antioxidant)
8. Carnitine (shuttles fat)
Getting Immediate Help:
It’s no coincidence that these are some of the main ingredients we included in the Immune Wellness IV at our clinic to get an immediate boost of these “Helpers” delivered straight to your cells.
If you are suffering from even a temporary shortage of energy start with the Immune Wellness IV to get you replenished with all of the “Helpers” the mitochondria need to make more energy. The Immune Wellness IV provides B vitamins in the form of B-complex (all of the B vitamins in one) as well as B5, B6 and B12 which are key in adrenal energy production. It also contains Magnesium and Zinc, the minerals outlined above. Lastly Vitamin C and Glutathione are included in this IV as they not only help re-cycle and boost Alpha Lipoic Levels, but they are key anti-oxidants which help us mop up the damaging side products of metabolism and other toxins which enter our bodies.
Testing:
Of course you may be wondering how we can determine whether in fact you do have an issue with a deficiency in one or more of these co-factors. Well, we can easily test and find out in detail what you are missing.
For this purpose I recommend the GenovaLabs: NutrEval FMV. If you’re feeling fatigued and your energy level is just not what it used to be, I think this test will be a big “Aha!” moment in your search for answers. Take a look at a sample report to get an idea of how comprehensive this test is.
Once we find out your exact deficiencies we immediately customize the Immune Wellness IV with great precision to target the nutrients you are low in, especially when it comes to the Mitochondrial “Helpers” we discussed above.
Getting the “Helpers” in food:
The Genova NutrEval test not only helps point out deficiencies in vitamins and nutrients, but it also offers explanations on how this may have come about and how we can fix the deficiencies via nutrition Take a look at the figure below under the first heading “Thiamin – B1”.
The discussion points out that we can become deficient if we consume “too much alcohol, coffee and tea”. A severe deficiency can even lead to “dementia”. However we can get more B1 from “food sources like lentils, whole grains, wheat germ, Brazil nuts, spinach, milk and eggs”. Very handy information if you’re planning on making some changes in your lifestyle and diet!
Summary:
1. Your mitochondria hold the key to your energy production but they need “Helpers”, certain key vitamins and nutrients for the production of energy as ATP.
2. If you are fatigued or weak consider the SuperImmune IV as your first option as it provides B-vitamins, Minerals and anti-oxidants like Glutathione and Vitamin C, all the necessary “Helpers” which mitochondria crave to function effectively.
3. Consider testing using the Genova NutrEval Lab at least once a year to find out your specific deficiencies and customize your IV treatments.
4. Use the Genova NutrEval information to customize your diet and oral supplements to slowly repair your deficiencies over time so you can overcome fatigue and weakness naturally.
In Part 1 on Fatigue and Energy, I discussed how essential mitochondria are to our energy production. These tiny powerhouses are part of almost all of our cells and make energy in the form of ATP. They need B vitamins, minerals like magnesium and anti-oxidants like Glutathione to work efficiently. All of these ingredients are a included in our comprehensive Immune Wellness IV.
Whether you are looking for a boost to your immune system during cold and flu season, suffer from a chronic illness and need some extra support, or are looking for an easy way to enhance your energy, this IV is a great place to start. It is a comprehensive infusion of some of the key cellular ingredients needed for optimal energy and a healthy immune system. It provides powerful antioxidants such as vitamin C and glutathione as well as all the B vitamins which rev-up your metabolic processes, enhance energy production, promote neurotransmitter production, and manage methylation. Minerals such as zinc, selenium and magnesium are also included due to their crucial role as co-factors (necessary helpers) for hundreds of metabolic reactions throughout the body. They are involved in DNA replication, messaging, immune function, hormone synthesis and energy production to name just a few. Start with this IV if you’re new to infusion therapy, need an immune boost, suffer from chronic illness, or experience chronic or recurring fatigue.]
Aging, Chronic Illness, Autoimmune Diseases and Cancer ALL involve Mitochondrial damage, malfunction and decreased energy production:
Mitochondrial damage is thought to be part and parcel of the actual process of aging. You see, mitochondria move electrons across their inner membrane to make energy in the form of ATP. This occurs with the helps of the Electron Transport Chain.
http://vcell.ndsu.edu/animations
Under the stress of high energy demand and production, mitochondria become less and less efficient allowing these electrons to “leak” and combine with Oxygen and Nitrogen directly to create “Free Radicals”. Examples of these are: Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS). Free radicals are very dangerous to anything they touch: they cause damage to DNA, Cell Membranes, Proteins and Mitochondria themselves! Free radical damage to mitochondrial and cellular DNA is actually thought to be the process by which we age.
Besides fatigue and aging, mitochondrial malfunction is a part of almost every chronic illness known.Here’s a short list of know conditions associated with mitochondrial damage and deficiency in energy production:
1. Autoimmune Illness: Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Lupus
2. Metabolic Syndrome: Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol
3. Type 2 Diabetes
4. Obesity
5. Alzheimer’s disease
6. Parkinson’s
7. Fibromyalgia
8. Chronic Fatigue
9. Cancer
10. Stroke and Heart Disease
11. Demetia
12. Bipolar Illness
13. Schizophrenia
14. Seizures
15. Migraines
What causes mitochondrial damage and energy production blockage?
1. Medications, Pesticides, Plastics, Toxins:
Drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol), antibiotics, antifungals, blood pressure medications and toxic substances like pesticides and plastics need to be modified to be made water soluble before being eliminated by the body. This process called “Phase 1” elimination takes place in the mitochondrial membrane and the endoplasmic reticulum and is regulated by a family of enzymes called Cytochrome P450. Cytochrome P450 enzymes are similar to the Electron Transport Chain that is also in the mitochondrial membrane and uses oxygen to make energy in the form of ATP.
Cytochrome P450 enzymes are responsible for about 75% of total drug metabolism. They also are responsible for a lot of hormone formation and breakdown. For example adrenal steroid synthesis (i.e. cortisol), testosterone, estrogen and cholesterol breakdown takes place in the mitochondrial membrane P450 chain.
Some medications inhibit the P450 enzymes while others promote them. Either process imbalances the system, uses up a lot of energy and can cause hormonal imbalances or excessive “oxidation”. Oxidation damages mitochondria, their membranes and the components of the electron transport chain inhibiting their ability to produce energy causing fatigue.
2. Heavy Metals:
Mercury, Lead, Cadmium, Aluminum, Antimony Nickel, Arsenic among others inhibit the Citric Acid cycle in mitochondria. The Citric Acid Cycle is how we break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates to make energy. The red circles in the figure below show these heavy metal inhibiting energy production in the mitochondria. In addition, exposure to heavy metals causes increase in Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) free radicals causing damage to the mitochondrial membrane.
3. Free Radical Damage:
As discussed above, when cells need more energy the mitochondria become overworked. In young individuals mitochondria can divide and replicate quickly to make more of themselves to meet increased cell energy demands. But as mitochondria become more stressed by increasing energy demands they can’t meet, they begin to “leak” electrons across their membranes and cause the formation of Free Radicals such as Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RON). These free radicals damage mitochondrial DNA causing mutations. Now the mutated mitochondria can’t replicate as effectively, but instead expand in a futile effort to make more energy. The enlarged mitochondria are very ineffective energy producers, instead manufacturing a lot of damaging debris in the form of free radicals.
4. Loss of Mitochondrial Membrane Fluidity:
Mitochondria and cell membranes are made primarily of Phospholipids. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is one of the main constituents of mitochondrial membranes. As mentioned above, during times of stress and high energy demand Free Radicals generated by inefficient mitochondria will “oxidize” (think of rusting) cell membranes and damage the phospholipids of the mitochondrial membrane causing the Electron Transport Chain to work even more inefficiently. This causes more free radicals to be released and a vicious cycle ensues with less energy available and more damage to cells. Eventually the cells do not have enough energy from mitochondria and they die. Fortunately we can intervene with PC and antioxidant infusions before this occurs.
Immediate Help: The DETOX IV at IV for Life
At NOVA Health Recovery, we recommend that anyone with symptoms of fatigue and, by definition, mitochondrial dysfunction consider immediate intervention with the Detox IV as a series of infusions. Here are the advantages of the Detox IV:
Do you feel run down? Fatigued? Exhausted? Do you have a hard time focusing or feel your memory slipping? Have your weight loss attempts stalled despite your best efforts?
Your body could be overrun with toxins—a wide variety of noxious molecules that are keeping sick, tired, depressed, and overweight.
Detoxification is certainly as important as popular media would have you believe, the problem is most programs go about detoxifying the wrong way…
Ultimately, it’s all about supporting your liver—the workhorse of your detoxification system and one of the most important organs in the body. When it’s overburdened your liver can’t do its job properly. Provide your liver the nutritional support it needs to function optimally with this IV. When you do, you may also experience increased energy and focus as a result of higher acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter) levels that come from the phosphatidylcholine in this treatment.
Detox Mini IV
The “Detox Mini IV” provides smaller doses of PC and Glutathione than it’s larger cousin the “Detox IV“. It is a quick 15 minute infusion for those on the go who still want to try this energizing and cleansing treatment.
IN the Detox IV is:
Phosphatidylcholine (PC)
Glutathione (GSH)
Detoxification is another major function of glutathione. GSH attaches to substances like heavy metals and xenobiotics—molecules that need to be excreted—forming “conjugates” that make them easier to be eliminated by the liver via bile and the kidneys via urine.
1. The Detox IV contains Phosphatidylcholine (PC) which is the main constituent of mitochondrial and cell membranes.
Giving “fresh” PC intravenously is thought to cause an exchange of the PC in the mitochondrial membranes that was damaged by “electron leaks” and the free radicals with the PC in the IV infusion. When the mitochondrial membranes are repaired they function better allowing nutrients such as minerals, B vitamins and fats for example to enter mitochondria for energy production. Secondly, the Electron Transport Chain components also reside in the mitochondrial membrane so re-establishing membrane fluidity is thought to improve electron flow and efficiency of “trans-membrane potentials”, a fancy way of saying better energy production in the form of ATP for the cells to use.
2. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) has a few other advantages. It is a precursor of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is essential in the functioning of our nervous system. In the brain it facilitates focus and attention, while in the Autonomic Nervous System it facilitates flawless nerve conduction to the main organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, gut and adrenals. PC also “cleans up” cell membranes, lowers bad cholesterol and improves liver function which is essential in detoxing from harmful compounds. Patricia Kane, PhD has written a lot about PC and has developed the PK protocol. To read all the detail about Phosphatidylcholine, click here.
Phosphatidylcholine supplements Link
3. The Detox IV finishes with an injection of Glutathione (GSH). As we discussed above, mitochondria under stress produce less energy and more free radicals as unwanted by-products which cause damage and aging (think of oxidation like rust). Glutathione is the “master antioxidant” of the body and neutralizes harmful free radicals.
Detoxification also takes place in mitochondria and has 2 phases. In “Phase 1” of detoxification Cytochrome P450 enzymes in the membrane of the mitochondria ” oxidize foreign substances like drugs, pesticides and hormones to get them more water soluble and eliminated out of our bodies. The “Phase 1” oxidized compounds behave much like free radicals and can be just as damaging so they need immediate “processing”.
In “Phase 2” of detoxification molecules like Glutathione “conjugate” the active byproducts (drugs, pesticides, hormones etc.) of Phase 1 by making them inert and harmless and ready to be excreted.Lastly, Glutathione plays a big role in the Citric Acid Cycle in the mitochondria as a cofactor involved directly in energy production from fats, carbohydrates and protein. You can see why Glutathione is such a key player in combating fatigue, increasing energy and cleaning up cellular metabolic “debris” which causes harm and ages the cell.
4. Establish oral therapy with a Liposomal Glutathione:
Liposomal Glutathione contains the two ingredients of the Detox IV in oral form: Phosphatidylcholine (PC) and Glutathione.
Pure PC makes up the liposomes (microscopic 150 nM spheres) that trap and surround the Glutathione molecules. This allows for protection and very high absorption of Glutathione, which is a fragile molecule and would otherwise get destroyed if taken orally by itself. You can purchase our Liposomal Glutathione on Amazon Prime here.
Lasting mitochondrial interventions to help reverse damage and improve mitochondrial energy production:
1. Eat an anti-oxidant rich diet:
Antioxidants like Vitamin C, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin A and E are all found in dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, in nuts, eggs and organ meats like liver (grass fed beef) and wild fish rich in Omega-3 fats.
Eat a spectrum of different colored vegetables several times a day: red, green, orange and blue fruits and vegetables to get all of the phytonutrients and anti-oxidants naturally. These natural antioxidants also contain B vitamins like Folate (from leafy greens) important in DNA replication, neurotransmitter formation, hormone metabolism and breakdown. If you don’t like to eat raw vegetables or just want to make sure you get plenty, I recommend a green powder shake once or twice a day at a minimum.
Take a look at how Dr. Wahls was able to overcome debilitating Multiple Sclerosis by repairing her mitochondria with a strict Paleo diet.
2. Exercise: Exercise stimulates mitochondria to divide and multiply. Get moderate exercise almost every day and try to get outside while exercising for 20 minutes of skin sun exposure for better Vitamin D levels.
3. Fix your “leaky gut”: A gut lining that is “permeable” allows foreign substances to get absorbed which are attacked by the immune system in a process called inflammation. Inflammation uses up energy and generates oxidants like free radicals. Fixing leaky gut involves taking a good probiotic daily and following a strict Paleo Diet for at least 3 months.
4. Sleep: Mitochondria need down times when they can restore just like we do as humans. During stage 4 of sleep (deep sleep) especially, our metabolism slows down tremendously. The demand for energy on the mitochondria drops, so that these little energy factories can rest, regenerate and stock up for when energy demands increase again during the day. Get 8 hours of sleep starting early in the night since most of deep sleep occurs between 10 PM and 12 am.
5. Evaluate your Heavy Metal Load: If you feel that heavy metals may be a part of your “energy drain” it is very easy to do a heavy metal “challenge” which means taking an oral medication named DMSA and then collecting your urine for 6 hours to see how much and what type of heavy metals are eliminated. This test is very easy to do and it gives us a quantifiable measure of heavy metal body “load” as a starting point. If mercury, lead, arsenic, antimony, aluminum or other heavy metals are an issue we can initiate a gentle, long term oral “chelation” protocol which will actively help you get rid of the heavy metals and release the energy blockage they may be causing in the mitochondria.
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About Testing
At NOVA Health Recovery we strongly recommend undergoing a comprehensive set of tests that allow us to look deep into your physiology so we can uncover your specific biochemical needs. Doing this helps us to pinpoint precisely what kind of support you require and personalize your IV treatments. It’s like treating an infection with “wide spectrum antibiotics” versus treating it with medication that pinpoints the exact organism causing you problems. One is a scatter shot approach that may or may not help. The other is so laser focused we can be reasonably sure it will produce rapid results.
To give you a sense for how this works, here is an example of results from a recent patient’s tests:
As you can easily see for yourself, this person was severely deficient in vitamin B9, and required high doses to replete this vital nutrient. On the other hand, her B6 and B7 levels were in the normal range. So instead of creating an IV of broad spectrum B vitamins and hope for the best, we were able to pinpoint her precise deficiencies and focus treatment in that area.
We would like to offer you the same opportunity to find out exactly which nutrients you need to achieve optimal health.
Until we receive the results of individual tests, we can give IV vitamins and nutrients based on your history and symptoms. For example, the Immunity & Wellness IV is a “wide spectrum” treatment which covers most common deficiencies and works very well in the interim.
Then when your tests arrive we can develop personalized IVs to fit your unique biochemical requirements.
The tests we use are outlined. We not only use the results to customize your IVs, but also to offer personalized guidelines for diet modifications and oral supplementation.
After the results of these tests are received, we finally glean a lot of information. Many times some of the abnormalities found will point to further investigation.
Metabolic Tests
The two tests we use the most are the Genova Labs NutrEval and the Spectracell Micronutrient testing. These tests help us measure:
- Vitamin levels such as all the B vitamins important in energy, metabolism, neurotransmitter creation, and DNA formation.
- Antioxidants such as vitamins A, E, C, alpha lipoic acid and CoQ10 all of which are important in neutralizing “free radical damage” to DNA and preventing illness and aging.
- Minerals such as zinc, magnesium, molybdenum and manganese important in cellular energy reactions.
- Amino acid levels which are needed to make protein, such as in the creation of collagen and muscle; and perform a wide variety of other important tasks such as the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the body.
- Absorption markers: These show how well you absorb the nutrients from your food in your intestines Do you have “malabsorption” or “leaky gut syndrome”? These tests help tease apart these questions.
- Dysbiosis: Do you have “bad” bacteria and/or fungal overgrowth in your intestines causing digestive issues like malabsorption, bloating, diarrhea or constipation? This test allow us to find out.
- Fatty acid analysis: Your ratio of omega-3, omega-6, omega-9 and other fats play a major role in your immune response and inflammation Find out how your cellular levels of these important fats are doing.
- Oxidative stress: Shows how well your body is taking care of damaging molecules such as free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) which do harm to your cell’s DNA, proteins and membranes and cause aging.
- Heavy metals: Provides a “snapshot” into the levels of circulating heavy metals present inside your red blood cells.
- Organic acids and toxin detoxification markers: Interesting in discovering what common toxins you are exposed to and how your body is detoxifying them? This test will show you.
Here’s a deeper look inside each one of these tests:
Genova Laboratories “NutrEval FMV”
The NutrEval is the most comprehensive metabolic test available and has become the “gold standard” test I perform on most of the patients who request this type of evaluation. It is a blood and urine test performed being off vitamins and nutrients of any type for 5 days. This allows your body to return to its natural “baseline” so we can more accurately assess specifically what you need. (Please see the sample report below.).
Pros:
- Incredibly comprehensive (all 10 categories above). It measures all major metabolic pathways in the body including the citric acid cycle, urea cycle, neurotransmitter metabolites, glycine/serine metabolites, dysbiosis, malabsorption, omega- 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, oxidative stress, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, organic acids and heavy metals.
- Genova will send you a kit directly to your home if you desire or you can pick one up from us.
Cons:
- Two week turnaround time minimum.
- Fasting test: You must be fasting and get this test done early in the morning.
- Fewer lab locations: The preparation of the samples in the kit is time consuming. We charge a $25 fee for the time and labor, and we draw the lab in our office.
Here’s a sample report of the Genova NutrEval.
Spectracell Laboratory’s “Micronutrient Test”
Spectracell’s Micronutrient Test is very versatile. It measures a wide array of nutrients critically important for an optimally functioning metabolism. Just as with the test by Genova Labs, we recommend you stop all supplements 5 days before you take the test to reach your body’s natural baseline.
This test has a very sophisticated and unique system of measuring your total antioxidant status and overall immune system functioning by growing white blood cells in different culture mediums. Most insurance companies cover Spectracell tests including Medicare. (Please see the sample report below)
Pros:
- Easy to draw: Just two vials of blood
- Non-fasting: You can draw the blood anytime even after a full meal.
Cons:
- This test misses some of the more technical information that Genova NutrEval has such as malabsorption, dysbiosis, heavy metals, organic toxins, urea cycle and others.
- Two-week turnaround time minimum.
- Not as useful in a complex clinical picture such as patients with chronic illness.
- More expensive co-pay than Genova NutrEval for participating insurances
Here’s a sample report of the Spectracell’s Micronutrient Test.
Methylation Testing
Methylation is a universal process happening in all of our cells, which profoundly affects the way we function. It is how your body generates carbon groups(C-H3) which are essential for managing just about every operation in every cell in the human body. These carbon units are then moved around and attached to different proteins, enzymes and even DNA.
Methylation is critically important for:
- Turn on and off genes (gene regulation)
- Process chemicals, endogenous and xenobiotic compounds (biotransformation)
- Build neurotransmitters (norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, melatonin)
- Metabolize neurotransmitters (dopamine, epinephrine)
- Process hormones (estrogen)
- Build immune cells (T cells, NK cells)
- DNA and histone synthesis (thymine aka 5-methyluracil)
- Produce energy (CoQ10, carnitine, creatine, ATP)
- Produce protective coating on nerves (myelination)
- Build and maintain cell membranes (phosphatidylcholine)
Like Goldilocks and her soup, methylation needs to be just right. Neither too much nor too little is good for optimal health. A direct test of how well you “methylate” is the Doctor’s Data Methylation Pathway Profile (Plasma Test). Sample Report Methylation Doctors data
This test measures the different products of methylation and also gives a “Methylation Index”. Again you want average, balanced methylation. Here is an example of how the results for this test look:
In addition there are two other tests you can take that will allow you to look even more deeply into how you methylate.
23andMe: Methylation Genetic Testing
There are several ways to test for genetic SNP’s in the methylation pathways, which are variations in DNA sequencing that impact this process. Interpretation of these tests requires expertise, because these SNP’s have such complex interactions. However, the results can be very useful in improving function and correcting even long-standing symptoms from fatigue to hormonal problems to behavioral abnormalities especially when put together with the “Methylation Profile: Plasma” results.
www.23andme.com ’s saliva test kit costs $99 and takes at least one month to process. It maps out your entire genome. In other words it “reads” all of your chromosomes and the SNP’s (variations) observed. The very lengthy “raw data” report that is generated is not interpreted by the company, because of FDA regulations that went into place in 2014. The results can be interpreted through a variety of other websites which have programs to scan the raw data from 23andme for a nominal price between $10 and $30.
Even after this report is available, unless you are very familiar with medical terminology you will likely need to sit down with an expert in functional medicine if you wish to understand the report. When you do, your doctor should cover what mutations you may have and recommendations about supplementation, diet, and lifestyle changes that may be needed as a result. Because of the sheer amount of data available, interpretation of the results often requires 90 minutes of discussion (in person or in remote video conference on Skype) and will usually cost around $250.
Doctor’s Data DNA Methylation Pathway Profile (Whole Blood Test)
A less overwhelming but extremely useful option is the DNA Methylation Whole Blood test by Doctor’s Data Labs. Sample Report Methylation Doctors data
This test measures the most common and well-known SNP’s rather than reading your entire genome the way 23andme does. SNPs are DNA sequence variations that occur relatively frequently in the general population. They are different from disease mutations, which are very rare. Huntington’s disease is an example of a disease mutation. If you inherit the altered gene, the disease will develop. Certain SNPs may be associated with particular health conditions, but they are not known to directly cause disease. The majority of SNPs affect protein, enzyme or cell receptor structure and function.
At a cost of around $250, the Doctor’s Data DNA Methylation Pathway Profile includes a analysis of variety of SNPs known to influence many aspects of health including:
- Insulin sensitivity
- Bone health
- Cancer risk
- Cardiovascular health
- Detoxification processes
- Fertility
- Mitochondrial function and metabolism
- Methylation
- Neurotransmitter balance
You will still need to go over the report with an expert doctor who can guide you through what the test means and what changes you should make to optimize function based on your results.
Here’s a sample of the Doctor’s Data DNA Methylation Pathway Profile.
Time to obtain results: 3 weeks.
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Science
All cells require energy in the form of ATP to function properly and this energy is made in our mitochondria—small organelles inside each of our cells.
Let’s take the nervous system as an example. Neurons (nerve cells) need energy from mitochondria to make neurotransmitters and myelin, the electric insulation of the cell, to communicate messages to muscles, heart, lungs, intestines and other parts of the brain or nervous system.
Without enough energy from the mitochondria your nerve cells’ communication starts to fail and a host of symptoms may develop including fatigue, weakness, headaches, tingling and numbness, heart palpitations, arrhythmia, and digestive issues like constipation and bloating to name just a few.
Similar problems occur when any of the cells in your body don’t make enough energy. Imagine, for example, what happens to your immune system. Basically, it just shuts down. The result? You can’t fend off disease, you are at greater risk for chronic illness, your energy plummets and more.
So if the mitochondria are this important let’s zoom in and take a look inside…
A Look at How Energy is Made
Here is what your mitochondria look like:
Now let’s zoom in one more time and look inside each mitochondria where the citric acid cycle (also called the Krebs or TCA acid cycle) takes place…
This all looks very complicated even to medical students (I used to glaze over looking at it)… but it’s an essential metabolic process required for all complex life forms to exist.
Here is a simplified version of how this process works.
- Raw materials from the foods you eat—protein, carbohydrate and fats—go through the citric acid cycle.
- They are converted into NADH and FADH2 via a series of steps.
- NADH and FADH2 then go through the “electron transport chain” also inside your mitochondria.
- ATP—the energy currency in each cell—is created.
This is how the energy that keeps every one of your cells functioning is made.
Why am I explaining all of this to you? Because each of the steps in energy production requires specific co-factors for it to work optimally. Ingredients like magnesium, zinc, glutathione and the B vitamins, all of which are included in this IV.
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The Ingredients in the Mini IV:
B-Complex: B-complex is a mixture of all eight B vitamins:
- B1 (Thiamine)
- B2 (riboflavin)
- B3 (Niacin)
- B5 (pantothenate)
- B6 (pyridoxine)
- B7 (biotin)
- B9 (folic acid)
- B12 (cobalamin)
The B vitamins are important in converting food to energy. They are also involved in DNA synthesis and replication, mitochondrial phosphorylation, the electron transport chain and ATP production, neurotransmitter production, immune system function, and hemoglobin production.
Another critical metabolic process B vitamins are involved in is called methylation. This is how your body generates carbon groups(C-H3) which are essential for managing just about every operation in every cell in the human body. Here are some of the functions of methylation:
- Turn on and off genes (gene regulation)
- Process chemicals, endogenous and xenobiotic compounds (biotransformation)
- Build neurotransmitters (norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, melatonin)
- Metabolize neurotransmitters (dopamine, epinephrine)
- Process hormones (estrogen)
- Build immune cells (T cells, NK cells)
- DNA and histone synthesis (thymine aka 5-methyluracil)
- Produce energy (CoQ10, carnitine, creatine, ATP)
- Produce protective coating on nerves (myelination)
- Build and maintain cell membranes (phosphatidylcholine)
Vitamins such as B12, B6 and B2 are necessary for the proper functioning of the methylation cycle. Without enough, methylation breaks down at the very root and all of the biological processes above can be compromised.
Due to their critical role deficiencies in B vitamins can lead to a VERY wide variety of symptoms including fatigue, anxiety, weight loss, emotional disturbances, muscle weakness, dementia, insomnia, skin eruptions, dermatitis, numbness, paresthesia, anemia, peripheral neuropathy, memory loss, demyelination, multiple sclerosis, paralysis, “brain fog” and cognitive impairment, sore throat, mental confusion, and diarrhea among others.
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B12 (cobalamin)
B12 (cobalamin): B12 is found mainly in animal foods and cannot be manufactured in the human body. Absorption is very complex and requires stomach acid, intrinsic factor, pancreatic enzymes and intact stomach and small intestine cells.This vitamin is a key player in the Krebs cycle and in the methylation cycle as it is a critical cofactor in homocysteine conversion to methionine by the enzyme methionine synthase. In its absence the processing of methylfolate and other steps in folate metabolism stop. This blockage of proper folate (B9) metabolism results in anemia and deficiencies in DNA formation.
Other symptoms of B12 deficiency are demyelination (as in multiple sclerosis), slowed nerve conduction, accumulation of homocysteine and increased heart disease risk, defective cell membranes (branched fatty acids), anemia, fatigue, painful and burning feet, skin abnormalities, retarded growth, dizzy spells, digestive disturbances, vomiting, restlessness, stomach stress, and muscle cramps.
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Vitamin C (ascorbate)
Vitamin C (ascorbate): Vitamin C cannot be made in the human body and has to be ingested in food or taken via supplementation. It is a powerful antioxidant, and is required in the production of several critical enzymes as well as the synthesis of collagen from proline and lysine. That means this humble vitamin is required for the maintenance of normal connective tissue (ligaments, tendons, skin), wound healing, and bone remodeling.Vitamin C is also required for conversion of tyrosine to epinephrine (adrenaline). That’s why it is present in high amounts in the adrenal gland cortex and these levels are depleted after adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation of the gland and synthesis of the stress hormone cortisol. That means under times of high stress (whether from illness, psychological stress, or some other form) your vitamin C levels are liable to plummet.
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B2 (riboflavin)
Selenium (Se)
Selenium (Se): Selenium is trace mineral essential for good health and is needed in small amounts. It is crucial in the function of antioxidants and the immune system. Selenium is incorporated in proteins to make selenocysteine. Selenocysteine is involved in promoting the antioxidant function of glutathione and thioredoxin, both of which neutralize the toxic effects of free radicals—naturally occurring byproducts of oxygen metabolism thought to cause damage to DNA, protein and cell membranes and possibly contribute to chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease.Selenium is important in the production and breakdown of thyroid hormones as well. Thyroid hormones essentially command the speed and efficacy of your overall metabolism, so it is important for them to be properly balanced.
Chronic selenium deficiency is associated with lethargy, dizziness, motor weakness and paresthesias, and an excess risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Toxicity from too much selenium often manifests as neurological impairment.
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Glutathione (GSH)
Glutathione (GSH): Glutathione is the “master” antioxidant. It neutralizes free radicals such as superoxide and reactive oxygen species (ROS) like hydroxy radicals, peroxynitrites, and hydroperoxides, all of which are byproducts of oxygen metabolism in the mitochondria.Free radicals and ROS can cause damage to DNA, proteins and cell membranes altering their function, causing mutations and may be implicated in chronic illnesses like cancer or heart disease. Glutathione renders these molecules inert, protecting you from their destructive effects.
Detoxification is another major function of glutathione. GSH attaches to substances like heavy metals and xenobiotics—molecules that need to be excreted—forming “conjugates” that make them easier to be eliminated by the liver via bile and the kidneys via urine.
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B-5 (Pantothenic Acid)
B5 (pantothenic acid): B5 is used in the synthesis of coenzyme A and CoA and is a component of the acyl carrier protein (ACP) domain of fatty acid synthase. It’s not important that you know what these particular chemicals do. What you need to understand is that vitamin B5 is required for the metabolism of all carbohydrates, fats and proteins, and it plays a critical indirect role in at least 70 enzymatic reactions in your body.Deficiencies of B5 can lead to symptoms such as painful and burning feet, skin abnormalities, retarded growth, dizzy spells, digestive disturbances, vomiting, restlessness, stomach stress, and muscle cramps.
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Zinc (Zn)
Zinc (Zn): After iron, zinc is the second most abundant trace metal in the human body. Zinc is a co-factor (helper) in over 300 different enzymes and thus is involved in a wide variety of biochemical processes. It interacts with the hormone insulin to ensure proper function, and is a key factor in the regulation of blood glucose levels via insulin action.Zinc is necessary for the activity of a number of transcription factors at the DNA level in the synthesis of steroid and thyroid hormones. It also promotes wound healing, regulates immune function, serves as a co-factor for numerous antioxidant enzymes, and is necessary for protein synthesis and the processing of collagen. Zinc inhibits the enzyme aromatase which converts testosterone to estrogen, thus potentially increasing available testosterone.
This essential mineral is commonly used in anti-viral preparations to fight the common cold and flu viruses.
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B6 (pyroxidine)
B6 (pyroxidine): Vitamin B6 plays a unique role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and GABA. It is also important in amino acid synthesis and it plays a critical role in the methylation cycle.Deficiency is caused by poor diet, alcoholism, and malabsorption or poor digestion. Symptoms of deficiency include headaches, muscle weakness, anemia, nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, skin eruptions, mental fatigue, “brain fog” or mental sluggishness, and hair loss.
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Magnesium (Mg)
Calcium Chloride
Whether you are looking for a boost to your immune system during cold and flu season, suffer from a chronic illness and need some extra support, or are looking for an easy way to enhance your energy, this IV is a great place to start.
It is a comprehensive infusion of some of the key cellular ingredients needed for optimal energy and a healthy immune system. It provides powerful antioxidants such as vitamin C and glutathione as well as all the B vitamins which rev-up your metabolic processes, enhance energy production, promote neurotransmitter production, and manage methylation.
Minerals such as zinc, selenium and magnesium are also included due to their crucial role as co-factors (necessary helpers) for hundreds of metabolic reactions throughout the body. They are involved in DNA replication, messaging, immune function, hormone synthesis and energy production to name just a few.
Start with this IV if you’re new to infusion therapy, need an immune boost, suffer from chronic illness, or experience chronic or recurring fatigue.
As always, we encourage you try a personally customized version of this treatment after evaluation and advanced metabolic testing with the help of our Functional Medicine team.
Immune – Mini IV
The Immune – Mini IV is the equivalent of the famous “Meyer’s Cocktail” and provides nearly the same nutrients as the “Immune Wellness IV” but in smaller quantities with less hydration (250 cc). At only 20 minutes to infuse, it’s perfect for those in a hurry who still want to get a wide spectrum of vitamin, mineral and antioxidant support.
Included in the IV are:
B complex
B12
Vitamin C
B2 (Riboflavin)
Selenium (se)
Zinc
Glutathione
B-5 (Pantothetic acid)
B6 (pyridoxine)
Magnesium (Mg)
Calcium Chloride