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      • Reproducton :Male
      • Reproduction: Female
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      • Sensory - Sight
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    • Life Stages
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      • Infancy
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Low Carb Keto Science
  • Home
  • Research & You
    • Why this website?
    • Pub Med & PubVenn
  • Body Systems
    • The Human Body
    • Cardiovascular
    • Digestive
    • Endocrine
    • Fat
    • Immune
    • Integumentary
    • Lymphatic
    • Skeletal
    • Muscular
    • Nervous
    • NS Brain
    • Reproducton :Male
    • Reproduction: Female
    • Respiratory
    • Sensory
    • Sensory - Sight
    • Sensory - Sound
    • Sensory - Smell
    • Sensory -Taste
    • Sensory- Touch
    • Urinary
    • Subsystems
    • Subsystems2
  • Life Stages
    • Pregnancy
    • Fetus
    • Infancy
    • Toddlerhood
    • Childhood
    • Adolescent
    • Early Adulthood
    • Middle Adulthood
    • Late Adulthood
    • Geriatric

The Nervous System

What is the Nervous System?

  

The nervous system serves as the body's communication network, coordinating and regulating various functions to maintain homeostasis. It comprises the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), including nerves and ganglia.


 The nervous system regulates autonomic functions like heartbeat, breathing, and digestion through the autonomic nervous system (ANS). It also coordinates voluntary movements via the somatic nervous system (SNS). Additionally, the nervous system plays a role in emotional regulation, hormonal balance, and immune response modulation.

 

Brain: As the command center, the brain processes sensory information, initiates responses, and controls voluntary and involuntary actions. It consists of regions responsible for different functions, including cognition, emotion, memory, and motor control.   


Five Senses 

  • Sight: The eyes detect light, converting it into neural signals interpreted by the brain to form visual perceptions.
  • Sound: The ears capture sound waves, transmitting auditory information to the brain for interpretation, enabling hearing and balance.
  • Smell: Olfactory receptors in the nasal cavity detect airborne molecules, sending signals to the brain for odor perception and memory.
  • Taste: Taste buds on the tongue and oral cavity detect chemical stimuli, relaying taste sensations to the brain for identification and enjoyment.
  • Touch: Sensory receptors throughout the skin detect pressure, temperature, and pain, sending signals to the brain for tactile perception and protection.

Overall, the nervous system integrates sensory input, processes information, and generates appropriate responses, ensuring the body's survival and adaptation to its environment.

What can go wrong?

 Several disorders and dysfunctions can affect the nervous system, excluding those related to the brain or the five senses:

  1. Peripheral Neuropathy: Damage to peripheral nerves, often caused by conditions like diabetes, autoimmune diseases, infections, or traumatic injuries, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the extremities.
  2. Neuromuscular Disorders: Conditions affecting the neuromuscular junction or muscle fibers, including myasthenia gravis, muscular dystrophy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), leading to muscle weakness, fatigue, and impaired movement.
  3. Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, resulting from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy can have various causes, including genetic factors, brain injury, infections, or developmental abnormalities.
  4. Stroke: A sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients, leading to cell death and potentially permanent neurological deficits. Ischemic strokes result from blood vessel blockage, while hemorrhagic strokes occur due to blood vessel rupture.
  5. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): An autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, where the immune system attacks myelin, the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers, leading to inflammation, demyelination, and impaired nerve function. MS symptoms vary widely and can include fatigue, weakness, sensory disturbances, and mobility issues.
  6. Parkinson's Disease: A progressive neurological disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
  7. Neurodegenerative Diseases: Conditions involving progressive degeneration and loss of neurons in the brain or spinal cord, such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and motor neuron diseases, leading to cognitive decline, movement disorders, and functional impairments.
  8. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Damage to the brain caused by an external force, resulting in cognitive, motor, and emotional impairments. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain injuries with long-term consequences.

These disorders can have significant impacts on quality of life and may require multidisciplinary approaches for management, including medications, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and supportive care.We are prepared to provide grants for online attendance at a range of conferences/courses. 

Many of those conferences will also supply CME for professionals (paid for by you). 

Hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome can contribute to several neurological

 

Hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome can contribute to several neurological disorders and dysfunctions through various mechanisms:

  1. Peripheral Neuropathy: Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia are associated with microvascular complications, including nerve damage. Elevated insulin levels may impair nerve function directly or indirectly through inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the development and progression of peripheral neuropathy, particularly in individuals with diabetes.
  2. Neuromuscular Disorders: Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome components such as obesity can lead to chronic low-grade inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, which may contribute to muscle weakness and degeneration observed in neuromuscular disorders like myasthenia gravis and muscular dystrophy.
  3. Epilepsy: Insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction have been implicated in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Dysregulation of insulin signaling pathways may affect neurotransmitter release, neuronal excitability, and synaptic plasticity, potentially increasing the risk of seizures.
  4. Stroke: Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome are risk factors for stroke, particularly ischemic stroke, through their associations with hypertension, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and prothrombotic states. Insulin resistance may promote vascular dysfunction and endothelial damage, predisposing individuals to cerebrovascular events.
  5. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between insulin resistance and MS. Insulin resistance-related inflammation and dyslipidemia may exacerbate neuroinflammation and demyelination processes in MS, influencing disease progression and severity.
  6. Parkinson's Disease: Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia have been implicated in the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease. Dysregulation of insulin signaling pathways may contribute to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation, which are implicated in dopaminergic neuron degeneration observed in Parkinson's disease.
  7. Neurodegenerative Diseases: Insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic dysfunction are associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. These metabolic abnormalities may impair neuronal function, exacerbate protein misfolding and aggregation, and promote neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to neurodegeneration.
  8. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Metabolic dysfunction, including insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, may exacerbate secondary injury mechanisms following TBI, such as neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, and oxidative stress, potentially worsening neurological outcomes and impairing recovery.

Overall, addressing metabolic abnormalities and promoting metabolic health may offer potential therapeutic strategies for mitigating the risk and progression of neurological disorders associated with hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.We are prepared to provide grants for online attendance at a range of conferences courses. 

Many of those conferences will also supply CME for professionals (paid for by you).

Obesity

 Excess adipose tissue is associated with chronic inflammation, which can  contribute to neuroinflammation and impair neuronal function. Obesity  is also linked to conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, which can  lead to oxygen deprivation and negatively impact neurological health. 

Type 2 diabetes

Diabetes-related neuropathy is a common complication, characterized by  nerve damage that can lead to tingling, numbness, and pain in the  extremities. Additionally, diabetes increases the risk of cognitive  decline, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer's disease due to impaired  cerebral blood flow and insulin resistance. 

Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol Use Disorder

 Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using. It affects various systems of the body, primarily targeting the central nervous system.

The brain's reward system, governed by neurotransmitters like dopamine, is particularly impacted by AUD. Alcohol consumption triggers the release of dopamine, creating pleasurable sensations and reinforcing the behavior. Over time, excessive alcohol consumption alters the brain's reward circuitry, leading to tolerance (needing more alcohol to achieve the same effects) and dependence (experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking).

Additionally, AUD can have profound effects on other systems of the body. Prolonged alcohol abuse can damage the liver, leading to conditions such as alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis. It can also weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Chronic alcohol consumption can contribute to cardiovascular issues, including high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and cardiomyopathy. Furthermore, excessive alcohol intake can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as gastritis, pancreatitis, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Overall, while AUD primarily affects the central nervous system due to its impact on brain function and behavior, it also has far-reaching consequences on various other systems of the body, highlighting the systemic nature of alcohol abuse and dependence.

ALS - Lou Gehrig's disease

 Nora D. Volkow, M.D., is Director of the National Institute on Drug  Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health. NIDA is the world’s  largest funder of scientific research on the health aspects of drug use  and addiction.

Dr. Volkow's work has been instrumental in  demonstrating that drug addiction is a brain disorder. As a research  psychiatrist, Dr. Volkow pioneered the use of brain imaging to  investigate how substance use affects brain functions. In particular,  her studies have documented how changes in the dopamine system affect  the functions of brain regions involved with reward and self-control in  addiction. She has also made important contributions to the neurobiology  of obesity, ADHD, and aging. 


Dr. Volkow was born in Mexico and earned her medical degree from the  National University of Mexico in Mexico City, where she received the  Robins Award for best medical student of her generation. Her psychiatric  residency was at New York University, where she earned a Laughlin  Fellowship from The American College of Psychiatrists as one of 10  outstanding psychiatric residents in the United States.


Much of  her professional career was spent at the Department of Energy’s  Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, New York, where she held  several leadership positions including Director of Nuclear Medicine,  Chairman of the Medical Department, and Associate Laboratory Director  for Life Sciences. Dr. Volkow was also a professor in the Department of  Psychiatry and Associate Dean of the Medical School at The State  University of New York at Stony Brook.

Dr. Volkow has published  almost a thousand peer-reviewed articles, written 113 book chapters,  manuscripts and articles, co-edited "Neuroscience in the 21st Century"  and edited four books on neuroscience and brain imaging for mental and  substance use disorders.

She received a Nathan Davis Award for  Outstanding Government Service, was a Samuel J. Heyman Service to  America Medal (Sammies) finalist and is a member of the National Academy  of Medicine and the Association of American Physicians. Dr.  Volkow received the International Prize from the French Institute of  Health and Medical Research for her pioneering work in brain imaging and  addiction science; was awarded the Carnegie Prize in Mind and Brain  Sciences from Carnegie Mellon University; and was inducted into the  Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder  (CHADD) Hall of Fame. She was named one of Time magazine's "Top 100  People Who Shape Our World"; one of "20 People to Watch"  by Newsweek magazine; Washingtonian magazine’s "100 Most Powerful  Women"; "Innovator of the Year" by U.S. News & World Report; and one  of "34 Leaders Who Are Changing Health Care" by Fortune magazine.


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Ketogenic diet reduces alcohol withdrawal symptoms in humans and alcohol intake in rodents

ALS - Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis - Lou Gehrig's disease

ALS - Lou Gehrig's disease

 Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately respiratory failure. While the exact cause of ALS is not fully understood, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome have been suggested to potentially influence disease progression and management.

Here's how ALS relates to metabolic factors:

  1. Neurological Degeneration: ALS primarily affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. While the underlying mechanisms of ALS involve genetic mutations, metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia can exacerbate neurodegeneration. Insulin resistance has been associated with impaired neuronal function and increased oxidative stress, which may contribute to the progression of motor neuron degeneration in ALS.
  2. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Metabolic syndrome, characterized by insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, is associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species released from adipose tissue in metabolic syndrome can contribute to neuronal damage and inflammation, potentially exacerbating neurodegeneration in ALS. Additionally, oxidative stress can lead to protein misfolding and aggregation, which are pathological hallmarks of ALS.
  3. Glucose Metabolism: Alterations in glucose metabolism have been observed in individuals with ALS, including impaired glucose uptake and utilization in neurons. Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia can further disrupt glucose metabolism and energy production in neurons, potentially exacerbating neuronal dysfunction and degeneration in ALS. Dysregulation of insulin signaling pathways may also contribute to aberrant protein metabolism and accumulation of toxic protein aggregates in ALS.
  4. Treatment Considerations: While there is currently no cure for ALS, management strategies aim to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression. Addressing underlying metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome may be important for optimizing treatment outcomes in individuals with ALS. Lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity, appropriate nutrition, and weight management may help improve metabolic health and overall well-being in individuals with ALS.

In summary, while ALS primarily affects motor neurons due to genetic mutations, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can potentially influence disease progression and management. Understanding the interactions between ALS and metabolic abnormalities is important for developing comprehensive treatment strategies that address both the neurodegenerative and metabolic aspects of the condition, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by ALS.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy Foundation

 Ketogenic diets: High Fat for Fewer seizures

Epilepsy

 Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, unprovoked bursts of electrical activity in the brain. While the exact cause of epilepsy varies among individuals, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can potentially influence the development and management of the condition.Here's how epilepsy relates to metabolic factors:

  1. Neurological Manifestations: Epilepsy primarily affects the brain and its electrical activity. Seizures occur due to abnormal synchronous firing of neurons in the brain, leading to disturbances in consciousness, behavior, sensation, and/or movement. While epilepsy is primarily considered a neurological disorder, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can influence neuronal function and predispose individuals to seizures through various mechanisms.
  2. Brain Metabolism and Function: Insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can impact brain metabolism and function. The brain relies heavily on glucose as its primary energy source, and disruptions in glucose metabolism associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can affect neuronal function and excitability. Altered insulin signaling pathways may also contribute to neuronal hyperexcitability, potentially increasing the risk of seizures.
  3. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome are associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress. Inflammation and oxidative damage can disrupt neuronal function and increase neuronal excitability, potentially contributing to the development or exacerbation of epilepsy. Additionally, inflammatory cytokines released from adipose tissue in metabolic syndrome can cross the blood-brain barrier and directly influence brain function.
  4. Medication Interactions: Individuals with epilepsy often require antiepileptic medications to manage their seizures. Some of these medications may affect glucose metabolism or insulin sensitivity, potentially exacerbating metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance or hyperinsulinemia. Conversely, certain antiepileptic drugs may have metabolic effects, including alterations in weight, lipid profiles, or glucose metabolism.
  5. Treatment Considerations: Optimal management of epilepsy involves a multifaceted approach that may include antiepileptic medications, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. Addressing underlying metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome may be important for optimizing treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of seizure recurrence. Lifestyle modifications aimed at improving metabolic health, such as regular physical activity, weight management, and dietary changes, may complement traditional epilepsy treatments and help reduce seizure frequency or severity.

In summary, while epilepsy primarily affects the brain and its electrical activity, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can potentially influence the development, management, and outcomes of the condition. Understanding the interactions between epilepsy and metabolic abnormalities is important for optimizing treatment strategies and improving overall outcomes in individuals with epilepsy, particularly those with comorbid metabolic conditions. 

Charlie Abrahams

 In 1993, 11 month old Charlie Abrahams developed difficult to control  epilepsy. As a last resort, while Charlie was experiencing multiple  daily seizures and multiple daily medications, his parents turned to a  Ketogenic Diet for help. The diet worked. Charlie became seizure and  drug free within a month. He was on the diet for five years and now eats  whatever he wants. He has never had another seizure. 


Jim Abrahams (Movie producer Airplane!)

established this foundation as a result:


The Charlie Foundation

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the brain and  spinal cord, where the immune system attacks the protective myelin  sheath of nerve fibers, disrupting communication within the nervous  system. Symptoms vary widely, including fatigue, mobility issues, and  vision problems. MS can be classified into four types:  relapsing-remitting, primary progressive, secondary progressive, and  progressive-relapsing. While there's no cure, treatments can manage  symptoms, reduce relapse frequency, and slow progression. Nutrition can make a huge difference  


Multiple Sclerosis - Personal Story

 This is truly an amazing story! Sandra Lee actually reversed her multiple sclerosis with a low carb, nutrient dense diet using ancestral principles of nose to tail eating. She followed the Terry Wahl's protocol and ate organ meats, organic seafood and meat, bone broth, and low carb vegetables to go from a wheelchair to doing Jiu Jitsu!

Get in Touch

Mitochondria Disfunction - Nutrition

Mitochondria Disfunction - Nutrition

  Mitochondria are indispensable for the proper functioning of the nervous  system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Within  neurons, mitochondria play a crucial role in providing the energy  necessary for neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity, and axonal  transport. Additionally, mitochondria regulate cellular processes  critical for neuronal function, including calcium homeostasis, oxidative  stress response, and apoptosis. Dysfunction in these cellular  powerhouses due to poor dietary choices can lead to impaired neuronal  function and compromised nervous system integrity, contributing to  conditions such as cognitive decline, neurodegenerative diseases, and  neuropathic pain. Nutrient-dense foods support optimal mitochondrial  function, while processed foods may compromise nervous system health.  Prioritizing a diet rich in whole foods is essential for preserving  mitochondrial health and reducing the risk of nervous system disorders,  underscoring the importance of dietary choices in supporting brain  health and overall nervous system function. 

Muscular Distrophy

Muscular distrophy

 

Muscular dystrophy refers to a group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. While the primary cause of muscular dystrophy is genetic mutations affecting proteins essential for muscle structure and function, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can potentially influence disease progression and management in individuals with muscular dystrophy.

Here's how muscular dystrophy relates to metabolic factors:

  1. Muscle Metabolism and Function: Muscular dystrophy primarily affects muscle tissue, leading to weakness, atrophy, and impaired muscle function. While the underlying genetic mutations are the primary drivers of muscle degeneration in muscular dystrophy, metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia can exacerbate muscle dysfunction. Disruptions in insulin signaling pathways may impair glucose uptake and utilization in muscle cells, compromising energy production and contributing to muscle weakness in individuals with muscular dystrophy.
  2. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Metabolic syndrome, characterized by insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress. Inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species released from adipose tissue in metabolic syndrome can contribute to tissue damage and inflammation, potentially exacerbating muscle degeneration and weakness in individuals with muscular dystrophy.
  3. Physical Activity and Weight Management: Individuals with muscular dystrophy often have limited mobility and may be at risk of developing obesity or metabolic abnormalities due to reduced physical activity levels. Obesity and metabolic syndrome can further exacerbate muscle weakness and functional impairment in individuals with muscular dystrophy, creating a vicious cycle of reduced mobility, increased weight, and worsening metabolic health.
  4. Treatment Considerations: While there is currently no cure for muscular dystrophy, management strategies aim to improve quality of life, preserve muscle function, and delay disease progression. Addressing underlying metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome may be important for optimizing treatment outcomes in individuals with muscular dystrophy. Lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity, appropriate nutrition, and weight management may help improve metabolic health and overall well-being in individuals with muscular dystrophy.

In summary, while muscular dystrophy primarily affects muscle tissue due to genetic mutations, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can potentially influence disease progression and management. Understanding the interactions between muscular dystrophy and metabolic abnormalities is important for developing comprehensive treatment strategies that address both the genetic and metabolic aspects of the condition, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by muscular dystrophy.

Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis

 

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. In myasthenia gravis, the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks receptors on muscle cells called acetylcholine receptors. These receptors are responsible for receiving signals from nerves and initiating muscle contractions.

Myasthenia gravis primarily affects the neuromuscular junction, making it most commonly classified under the neurological system. The dysfunction in signal transmission at the neuromuscular junction leads to muscle weakness and fatigue, impacting motor function and coordination. However, it's also important to consider how metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome might affect the disease:

  1. Autoimmune Disorder and Metabolic Factors: Myasthenia gravis is classified as an autoimmune disorder because it involves the immune system attacking the body's own tissues. While the exact causes of autoimmune disorders like myasthenia gravis are not fully understood, there is evidence suggesting that metabolic factors such as insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia may contribute to dysregulation of the immune system. Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia have been associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, which can disrupt immune function and contribute to the development or exacerbation of autoimmune conditions.
  2. Impact of Metabolic Syndrome: Metabolic syndrome, characterized by insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, can have systemic effects on the body, including immune dysregulation and inflammation. Individuals with metabolic syndrome may have an increased risk of autoimmune disorders like myasthenia gravis due to these underlying metabolic abnormalities. Chronic inflammation associated with metabolic syndrome can further exacerbate autoimmune responses and contribute to the progression of myasthenia gravis.
  3. Treatment Considerations: The presence of metabolic abnormalities like insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome may impact the management of myasthenia gravis. Certain medications used to treat myasthenia gravis, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, can affect glucose metabolism and may worsen insulin resistance or glycemic control in individuals with pre-existing metabolic abnormalities. Therefore, careful monitoring and coordination between healthcare providers are essential to optimize treatment outcomes while managing metabolic factors in individuals with myasthenia gravis and comorbid metabolic conditions.

In summary, while myasthenia gravis primarily affects the neuromuscular system as an autoimmune disorder, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome may interact with the disease process, potentially influencing its development, progression, and management. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these interactions and their implications for clinical practice.

chronic PAIN

Chronic Pain

 

Chronic pain is a complex condition that involves alterations in the processing of pain signals within the nervous system. Both the peripheral nervous system, which includes nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, and the central nervous system, which encompasses the brain and spinal cord, play crucial roles in the development and maintenance of chronic pain.

At the peripheral level, chronic pain often arises due to damage or dysfunction of nerves, tissues, or organs. In conditions such as neuropathic pain, nerve damage leads to abnormal signaling, resulting in sensations of pain even in the absence of a harmful stimulus. Peripheral sensitization, where nerve endings become more sensitive to pain signals, can also contribute to the persistence of chronic pain.

Within the central nervous system, chronic pain involves complex changes in the way pain signals are processed and modulated. This includes alterations in the transmission of pain signals along neural pathways and changes in the activity of various brain regions involved in pain perception, such as the somatosensory cortex and the limbic system. Neurotransmitters, such as glutamate, substance P, and serotonin, play key roles in the transmission and modulation of pain signals within the central nervous system.

Moreover, chronic pain is associated with neuroplastic changes in the nervous system, including structural and functional alterations in neurons and synapses. These changes can lead to a state of hyperexcitability, where neurons become more responsive to pain signals, as well as maladaptive plasticity, where pain pathways become reinforced and sensitized over time.

Nutrition Network - Chronic Pain

 

 

  • ield, R.J. et al. (2021) ‘Experience of participants with chronic pain in a pilot randomized clinical trial using a ketogenic diet’, Pain Management [Preprint]. doi:10.2217/pmt-2021-0084 ABSTRACT
  • Field  R, Pourkazemi F, Rooney K. Effects of a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet  on reported pain, blood biomarkers and quality of life in patients with  chronic pain: A pilot randomised clinical trial. Pain Medicine. 2021;(pnab278). doi:10.1093/pm/pnab278 ABSTRACT
  • Strath  LJ, Jones CD, Philip George A, et al. The Effect of Low-Carbohydrate  and Low-Fat Diets on Pain in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis. Pain  Med. March 2019. doi:10.1093/pm/pnz022 ABSTRACT
  • Lyman, K.S. et al. (2022) ‘Continuous care intervention with carbohydrate restriction  improves physical function of the knees among patients with type 2  diabetes: a non-randomized study’, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23(1), p. 297. doi:10.1186/s12891-022-05258-0.
  • Masino S, Ruskin D. Ketogenic Diets and Pain. Journal of Child Neurology. 2013;28(8):993-1001. doi:10.1177/0883073813487595 PDF 
  • Masino  SA, Ruskin DN. Nutritional Recommendations to Address Pain: Focus on  Ketogenic/Low-Carbohydrate Diet. In: Pietramaggiori G, Scherer S, eds.  Minimally Invasive Surgery for Chronic Pain Management: An  Evidence-Based Approach. Springer International Publishing; 2020:69-71.  doi:10.1007/978-3-030-50188-4_8 ABSTRACT
  • Field, R. et al. (2022) ‘Low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets: a scoping review of  neurological and inflammatory outcomes in human studies and their  relevance to chronic pain’, Nutrition Research Reviews, pp. 1–71. doi:10.1017/S0954422422000087.
  • Kaushik  AS, Strath LJ, Sorge RE. Dietary Interventions for Treatment of Chronic  Pain: Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. Pain Ther. Published online  October 21, 2020. doi:10.1007/s40122-020-00200-5
  • Pappolla  MA, Manchikanti L, Candido KD, et al. Insulin Resistance is Associated  with Central Pain in Patients with Fibromyalgia. Pain Physician. Published online 2021:10. PDF
  • Holton, K. et al. (2020) ‘The Low Glutamate Diet Significantly Improves Pain and Other Symptoms in Veterans with Gulf War Illness’, Current Developments in Nutrition, 4(Supplement_2), pp. 1211–1211. doi:10.1093/cdn/nzaa057_027.

Nutrition Network - Chronic Pain

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy

 

Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. This condition can result in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain, often affecting the hands and feet.

Here's how peripheral neuropathy relates to insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome:

  1. Neurological Manifestations: Peripheral neuropathy primarily affects the nervous system, specifically the peripheral nerves. These nerves play a crucial role in transmitting signals between the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the rest of the body. While peripheral neuropathy can have various causes, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia may contribute to nerve damage or dysfunction through several mechanisms.
  2. Microvascular Damage: Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia are associated with endothelial dysfunction and microvascular damage. These metabolic abnormalities can impair blood flow to peripheral nerves, leading to ischemia (reduced blood supply) and subsequent nerve damage. Poor blood flow deprives nerves of oxygen and nutrients necessary for their function and repair, contributing to the development and progression of peripheral neuropathy.
  3. Inflammatory Pathways: Chronic low-grade inflammation, a hallmark of metabolic syndrome, can contribute to peripheral nerve damage. Inflammatory cytokines and adipokines released from adipose tissue in metabolic syndrome can directly or indirectly damage nerve tissues and disrupt neuronal signaling. This inflammatory response can exacerbate nerve injury and contribute to the development or worsening of peripheral neuropathy symptoms.
  4. Glycemic Control: In the case of diabetes mellitus, a common component of metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) can directly damage nerves through several mechanisms, including the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), oxidative stress, and activation of inflammatory pathways. Poor glycemic control in individuals with insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, or metabolic syndrome can exacerbate nerve damage and increase the risk of developing or worsening peripheral neuropathy.
  5. Treatment Considerations: The presence of metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, or metabolic syndrome may influence the management of peripheral neuropathy, particularly in individuals with diabetes mellitus. Optimal management often involves strategies aimed at improving glycemic control, addressing underlying metabolic abnormalities, and managing symptoms. Lifestyle modifications, including weight management, regular physical activity, and dietary changes, may help improve insulin sensitivity and metabolic health, potentially mitigating nerve damage and symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy.

In summary, while peripheral neuropathy primarily affects the nervous system, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can contribute to its development, progression, and management through various mechanisms, including microvascular damage, inflammation, and impaired glycemic control. Addressing underlying metabolic abnormalities and optimizing glycemic control are essential components of managing peripheral neuropathy, particularly in individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes mellitus.

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Parkinson's Disease

Peripheral Neuropathy

 

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. It is characterized by a gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain, particularly in the substantia nigra region, leading to motor symptoms such as tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity, and postural instability. Parkinson's disease can also involve non-motor symptoms, including cognitive impairment, mood disturbances, and autonomic dysfunction.

Here's how Parkinson's disease relates to metabolic factors:

  1. Neurological Manifestations: Parkinson's disease primarily affects brain function and motor control, making it a neurodegenerative disorder. While metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome are not direct causes of Parkinson's disease, they may influence neurodegeneration and disease progression. Insulin resistance, for example, has been associated with alterations in dopamine signaling and neuronal survival, which may exacerbate dopaminergic dysfunction and motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease.
  2. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Metabolic syndrome is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress, which have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Inflammatory cytokines and oxidative damage can contribute to neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuronal death in Parkinson's disease. Additionally, elevated inflammatory markers have been reported in individuals with Parkinson's disease, suggesting a link between metabolic abnormalities and neuroinflammatory processes in the disorder.
  3. Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Mitochondrial dysfunction is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease, contributing to impaired energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and neuronal degeneration. Metabolic factors such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome may exacerbate mitochondrial dysfunction by impairing mitochondrial biogenesis and function, further compromising cellular energy production and neuronal survival in Parkinson's disease.
  4. Treatment Considerations: Addressing underlying metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome may be important for optimizing treatment outcomes in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity, weight management, and dietary changes may help improve metabolic health and reduce the risk or severity of Parkinson's disease. Additionally, some medications used to manage metabolic syndrome, such as certain antioxidants or anti-inflammatory agents, may have adjunctive benefits in Parkinson's disease treatment by targeting neuroprotective pathways or modulating neuroinflammatory processes.

In summary, while Parkinson's disease primarily affects brain function and motor control and is considered a neurodegenerative disorder, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome can potentially influence disease progression and management. Understanding the interactions between Parkinson's disease and metabolic abnormalities is important for developing comprehensive treatment strategies that address both the neurodegenerative and metabolic aspects of the condition, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by Parkinson's disease.


Stroke

Stroke

 

  A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when  blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, leading to  damage or death of brain cells. Strokes can result from either blockage of blood flow (ischemic stroke) or bleeding into the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The effects of a stroke depend on the area of the brain affected and the extent of damage, and can range from mild to severe, including paralysis, speech difficulties, cognitive impairment, and even death.Here's how strokes relate to metabolic factors:

  1. Vascular Dysfunction: Metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome are associated with vascular dysfunction, including atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup), hypertension (high blood pressure), and dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid levels). These vascular risk factors contribute to the development and progression of cardiovascular disease, including stroke. Atherosclerosis can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries supplying the brain, increasing the risk of ischemic stroke. Hypertension is a major risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, as it can cause damage to blood vessels and increase the risk of vessel rupture.
  2. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Metabolic syndrome is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress, which play key roles in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases, including stroke. Inflammatory processes contribute to endothelial dysfunction, plaque formation, and thrombus (blood clot) formation, all of which can lead to ischemic stroke. Oxidative stress further exacerbates vascular damage and contributes to neuronal injury during stroke. Additionally, systemic inflammation and oxidative stress associated with metabolic syndrome may impair recovery and increase the risk of complications following a stroke.
  3. Secondary Prevention and Rehabilitation: Addressing underlying metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome is important for secondary prevention of stroke and optimizing outcomes in stroke survivors. Lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity, smoking cessation, weight management, and dietary changes can help improve metabolic health and reduce the risk of recurrent strokes. Additionally, medications used to manage metabolic syndrome, such as antihypertensives, lipid-lowering agents, and antidiabetic drugs, may be prescribed to reduce vascular risk factors and prevent stroke recurrence. Rehabilitation strategies focusing on physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are essential for stroke survivors to regain function and improve quality of life.

In summary, while strokes primarily involve disruption of blood flow to the brain and are considered vascular events, metabolic factors such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic syndrome play important roles in the pathogenesis, prevention, and management of strokes. Understanding the interactions between strokes and metabolic abnormalities is crucial for implementing comprehensive strategies to reduce stroke risk, optimize treatment outcomes, and improve long-term prognosis for individuals at risk of or affected by stroke. 

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