E
vidence is emerging that inflammation (Neuroinflammation) may be an underlying issue in may chronic conditions such as Dementia, Alzheimers and Parkinsons, but could also contribute to ADD, ADHD, Migraines, Autism and many others. There is even evidence to show that inflammation may be linked to mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar Disorder.
It is well known that long-term, mild inflammation is a driving factor behind many chronic diseases, e.g. heart disease or liver disease. But the idea of inflammation getting into the nervous system is relatively still relatively new. I find it a very exciting concept, because, from a functional medicine point of view, it gives us something to treat in the prevention and management of many neuro-degenerative conditions (that are typically difficult to get a handle on).
The causes of this inflammation are complex and multiple. Brain inflammation is linked to the health of the rest of the body, and factors like gut health, chronic stress, allergies, exposure to toxins and poisons and immune disorders can all cause it (among others). Genetic factors are also a big part, which explains why children (with ADHD for example) can have neuroinflammation without a lifetime of stress and bad lifestyle.
So, once we acknowledge the ‘inflamed brain’ it gives us new insight and potential treatment options for early Dementia and neurological conditions. It could also help us in treating chronic Depression and mood issues. Additionally, it can (I feel) provide hopeful new treatments for improving the performance of the nervous system in ADD and Autism.
I believe that people with Autism, ADD and Migraines are much more susceptible to neuroinflammation. There may be mild errors in the genes that control certain detoxification, immune and inflammatory pathways in their body and brain. These people may be more strongly affected by certain substances that can stimulate these pathways, e.g. certain flavourants, colourants and artificial sweeteners. I suspect that this sensitivity, and the “flare up” of inflammation that results, is the reason why ADD and Autistic people have long been known to be sensitive to these foods. There is even a new term being used where many of these substances are being called excitotoxins, substances that ‘over-stimulate’ and inflame the brain.
There is much new research being done into options to treat this inflammation in the brain. Orthodox medicine is exploring the use of anti-inflammatory drugs (like Celebrex) for dementia etc. Natural medicine has interesting options for neuroinflammation ranging from the important basics (like vitamin D3, Omega 3, B’s and magnesium) through to the more specialized and cutting edge, such as: Turmeric, Resveritrol, PQQ, Lithium Orotate, EGCG and Sulforaphane. A carefully chosen, individual, and very healthy diet can also (it seems) have a very positive effect.
Inflammation in the brain could potentially interfere with the normal and healthy functioning of he areas of the brain and nervous system involved. The inflammation may even over stimulate nerve pathways, causing unnecessary and unpleasant symptoms. One concern is that over stimulating these nerve cells for too long could cause damage to these nerve cells. While treating this inflammation may not ‘cure’ many of these neurological issues (like Autism), it could reduce the over-stimulation, improve the functioning and limit the progression of the disease and slow future damage.
While a wholistic assessment is essential in these cases, in order to identify areas that could be contributing to potential inflammation, an exciting blood test may also offer insight. HS-CRP (high sensitivity CRP) is a blood test to pick up any lingering/ mild inflammation in the body. There is a growing body of research and evidence linking CRP levels with Parkinons, circulatory changes, Dementia, Alzheimers and possibly brain tumours. So this blood test could possibly be used to detect neuroinflammation, and may even be an early warning sign.
