FOOD FOR THE BRAIN

At a recent Conference in London, Chrissie Sugden, MSc, spoke on METHYLATION in connection with depression, schizophrenia and autism. Methylation is the cell's ability to switch on and off gene activity. It is crucial for balancing neurotransmitters and for mental health. The vital nutritional co-factors for methylation are vitamins B2, B6, B12, folic acid, zinc, magnesium and the amino acid trimethylglycine. High homocysteine levels generally indicate poor methylation.
NIACIN and SCHIZOPHRENIA Dr. Abram Hoffer was unable to attend the conference but he sent a video presentation detailing his 50 years' experience of successfully treating schizophrenia with niacin (vit.B3). His comparison with hallucinogenic drugs of schizophrenic patients suggested that supplementation with niacin might prevent the conversion of adrenaline into the hallucinogen adrenachrome. In his first trials with 8 schizophrenic patients who had failed to respond to any other treatment he used 1 gm of niacin (combined with Vit. C to prevent oxidation) three times a day. This has remained the basis of his treatment since, although he has subsequently added vitamin B6, zinc and essential fatty acids. Dr. Hoffer also emphasised the vital importance of including hope in the treatment he offers his patients - with whom he always discusses what they will do when they get better - not if.