Public protocols

13 of Rethink Psychiatry's general recommendations, available to anyone who visits this store.

//B VITAMINS: chewable, liquid, powder
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I have included a few different options for B vitamins. I would like [him] to get at least 50mg of B6 per day , with a balanced amount of all the other B vits as well. “Liquid B Complex” by Seroyal/Genestra. This one is fairly complete, so just 1 tsp per day is sufficient. No additional B6 is necessary. This is the only liquid B complex I know with this high dose of B6. “Liposomal Methyl B-Complex” by Quicksilver Scientific. This one only requires a very small amount per day, 2 pumps or about 1 mL. If [name] resists taking a whole teaspoon, I thought he may acquiesce to this smaller amount. It does not have enough B6 (only 7.5mg), however, so he would need to take extra B6. ”B-6 Liquid” from Carlson Labs. If [name] takes the Quicksilver formula, he could add 1/2 a tsp of this to make up the difference. The other B-6 candies which [he] sampled are “Preggie Pops Plus ” by Three Lollies (10mg B6 per candy, in sour raspberry and sour lemon; note that only the “Plus” product has the B6 in it) and B-natal (25mg B6 per candy, in cherry lollipops or apple drops). None of those is available on this site.
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OCD (with capsules)
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These products all have different mechanisms of action to boost calming neurotransmitters and facilitate breakdown of anxiety-provoking ones. They can be used individually but often have a synergistic effect when used together.. When adding multiple supplements, I recommend starting one at a time a few days apart, so you can determine the source if you experience a side effect. 1. NAC: This amino acid helps with detoxification, breakdown of stimulating neurotransmitters (like adrenaline), and many other processes. It works best when combined with other nutrients (especially B vitamins and magnesium), and help with mood and anxiety. Take 1 capsule on an empty stomach up to 3 times a day. It may cause nausea. 2. Taurine: This is a calming neurotransmitter on its own but also helps with metabolism of the calming neurotransmitter GABA. It plays a role in detoxification on a cellular level and by supporting bile production. It takes effect right away and can be used daily or just as needed. 3. Serotonin Mood Support: This mix contains high dose saffron which acts as an antidepressant, 5-HTP which is the main building block of serotonin, and active forms of the major B vitamins involved in serotonin synthesis. It has a calming effect right away, although there may be additional benefit with regular use over 4-6 weeks. Take 4 capsules twice a day, in the morning and mid-day, on an empty stomach. Taking it at bedtime may cause increased dreaming. The most common side effect is nausea, which can be reduced by taking it with a little bit of food. 4. Inositol (powder): Inositol (otherwise known as vitamin B17) is involved in serotonin pathways, as well as other cellular messaging systems that have a calming effect and usually right away. It can also be taken daily or just as needed. With daily use over several months, it can help with blood sugar management and has also been used in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Start with 1 scoop once a day, and increase as needed up to a maximum of 2 scoops twice a day. It is slightly sweet and can be used to sweeten tea or other beverages. Higher doses can cause sedation, so this can be helpful for sleep. The most common side effect is bloating and GI upset. 5. Doctor Formulated Probiotics Mood+: This probiotic blend contains bacterial strains shown to produce the highest amount of the neurotransmitters GABA and serotonin. It also contains the adaptogenic herb Ashwagandha, which modulates the stress response. Take 2 capsules daily. Some people notice an effect immediately, while for others it may take several weeks. With any new probiotic, many people go through an adjustment phase during which they experience some changes in GI function (bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea). These symptoms usually subside after a few days. It may be helpful to reduce the dose to one capsule daily or every other day, and then work your way up gradually. It does not require refrigeration and can be taken any time of day and either with or without food.
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OMEGA-3: liquids/squeeze gel
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Omega-3, liquid
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ADD/ADHD FOR KIDS (with capsules)
1. NeuroLink: This supplement contains a blend of amino acids that are the precursors to major neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin. It generally takes effect right away and lasts about 4 hours; taking it at night is generally not helpful and can negatively impact sleep.. It can be taken just as needed or on a daily basis. Start with 2 capsules twice a day (morning and midday), preferably on an empty stomach. The capsules can also be opened and sprinkled into a smoothy or a small amount of food. 2. CoroOmega MAX Citrus Burst: This is highly concentrated fish oil supplement, without the fishy taste. One shot per day provides 1050mg of EPA and DHA, the most important omega-3's. It is best absorbed when taken with food. Omega-3's are crucial for brain development and function, as well as for immune function and the cardiovascular system. 3. Active B-Complex: As suggested by the name, this B-Complex contains active forms of the major B-vitamins in balanced amounts. These are vitally important for appropriate neurotransmitter balance, including synthesis of dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin. Take 1 capsule in the morning, preferably with food. It can be opened and emptied into food or a smoothy, but it does have a taste to it. 4. Neuro-Mag: Magnesium works in conjunction with B vitamins in neurotransmitter metabolism, as well as on its own in hundreds of other processes in the body. This form of magnesium is best suited for improving brain function, but is only available in capsule form. The capsules can be opened and added to a food, but should be taken with plenty of water. Other forms of magnesium which are available in powdered or gummy form can also be helpful; aim for about 300mg of elemental magnesium. Diarrhea can be a side effect of any form of magnesium; if that occurs, try spreading the dose out throughout the day.
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CANDIDA/YEAST
Unhealthy yeast overgrowth can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, nausea, or diarrhea as well as systemic symptoms such as body aches, anxiety, depression, insomnia, brain fog, sugar-craving, weight gain, rashes, and acne. To reduce the amount of yeast, it is usually necessary to combine an anti-fungal agent with a low sugar/carbohydrate diet. It usually also requires several rounds of treatment, each round lasting about a month and separated by 2 weeks. Some people experience a "die-off" reaction which may include flu-like symptoms, headaches, body aches, GI upset, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, intense sugar cravings, or brain fog. These usually pass after a few days. "Die off" symptoms can be mitigated by taking a binder, such as G.I. Detox, about an hour after taking the anti-fungal. 1. Candicid Forte (anti-fungal): Take 3 capsules twice a day for a month. This should not be taken at the same time as the probiotic. 2. Saccharomyces boulardii (probiotic): Take 1 capsule daily, at least 2 hours apart from the Candicid Forte. Saccharomyces is a healthy yeast strain that prevents dangerous yeast from returning. 3. G.I. Detox: Use only if needed for "die-off" reactions. Take 1-2 capsules about an hour after each dose of Candicid Forte. Do not take this with any other supplements or medications, as it may bind to those and prevent their absorption. * If you are diabetic, note that some anti-fungal herbs and treatments can reduce blood sugar and you may need to talk with your doctor about adjusting any medications you may be taking.
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COLD SORES
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Follow this protocol at the first sign of a cold sore and continue for 2 weeks or until symptoms resolve. Andrographis: 2 dropperfuls every 2-4 hours. L-Lysine, 10g per day in divided doses. Whole Foods makes a 1000mg per tablet which is far more convenient than the 500mg/cap supplement I included here. It is also available as a powder from Bulk Supplements (https://www.bulksupplements.com/products/l-lysine-hcl). Vitamin C: 250-500mg every 2-4 hours (1/16 tsp to 1/8 tsp of a raw powder). Lower dose but more frequent is better than higher doses spread apart. I use a powder because it is hard to find lower dose supplements in capsule or tablet form. Elderberry syrup: 1 tbsp every 2-4 hours. Topically: Gigartina Red Marine Algae Ointment from Vibrant Health (not on Fullscript). Apply to affected area every 2-4 hours. Here is a link: https://vibranthealth.com/collections/immunity/products/gigartina-rma-ointment. ADK Evail: 2 capsules per day. If you know that your blood levels of Vitamins A, D, E, and K are adequate, you may not need to add these. I also recommend Ginger/Lemon/Honey tea, 8 oz. every 2-4 hours. This recipe for Ginger Tea has been adapted from Herbal Antivirals by Stephen Buhner. It is much more potent than typical store-bought “ginger lemon” teabags. Ingredients (per 8 oz cup) Water, 8-10 Fresh, organic ginger root, about 2 inches, peeled and finely chopped or grated. Lemon juice to taste (1-2 tbsp) Honey to taste (1-2 tbsp) Cayenne pepper, pinch Sea salt, pinch Instructions Add minced/ chopped ginger to 8-10 ounces of water. Bring to a rolling boil. Remove from heat, and leave covered for 2-3 hours. Make sure to keep it covered to preserve the essential oils. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and salt. Add lemon juice and honey to taste. Serve warm. Additional Tips You can strain out the ginger or eat the chunks. If you plan to drink several cups, you can grate a large amount of ginger at once in a food processor and store it in the refrigerator. Use about 2 tbsp for each 8oz. cup. Additional flavor options: lime juice, apple cider vinegar, fresh mint, turmeric, sea salt, cinnamon. Note that ginger can release histamine; if you are sensitive to histamine you may need to skip this.
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SAUNA DETOXIFICATION
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Here are some recommendations regarding sauna detoxification therapy. There are a lot of protocols, and the whole thing can become quite time-consuming and difficult. I’m outlining the “full” protocol below, but don’t worry if you can’t do every step. If you are considering purchasing your own sauna, look for one made from low terpene woods, such as aspen or fir; avoid pine. You can also purchase a portable “tent” sauna, such as one from Relax Saunas (see: https://www.relaxsaunas.com ). 1. Take Niacin, starting with 50mg at a time and increasing by 50mg each day as tolerated (the flush/anxiety can be uncomfortable if you start with too high a dose, but your body gets tolerant to it over time). Try to get to 1000mg per day. I listed 2 products in your recommendation. Do NOT substitute with a "flush-free" form. Niacin 50mg: Start with this one. Niacin 500mg: You can progress to this one eventually so you don’t have to take so many capsules. 2. About 20-30 minutes later, perform some kind of exercise for 10-60 minutes that increases your heart rate. 3. After the exercise, take glutathione to facilitate breakdown of toxins. You can take glutathione or NAC (N-AcetylCysteine), its precursor. Note that glutathione in regular form rarely survives stomach acid, so it is best to take it in a liposomal, topical, or intravenous form. Take oral forms on an empty stomach. Liposomal glutathione: Glutathione in regular form very rarely makes it past stomach acid, so one of the ways around that is to take a “liposomal” liquid. None of them tastes really great (sorry), but this one is super concentrated so at least the volume is limited. Readisorb GO (Glutathione Optimized): This is a powder which can be added to water or other liquids. It is the most palatable product [to me] that I have found. Take 1 packet after exercise. NAC: Take 1-2 capsules after exercise. 4. About 30-60 minutes after the exercise (ie, about 2 hours after the niacin), start your sauna treatment. Begin with 20-30 minutes and increase up to an hour as tolerated. More is not necessarily better; try to listen to your body. 5. As you sweat, wipe down with a towel so you don’t reabsorb all the toxins you just excreted. Take a shower after the treatment. 6. After the therapy, make sure you hydrate and replenish electrolytes. There are multiple electrolyte drinks (like coconut water) that are fine; I included only a few examples here. Please do not take ALL of these — any ONE will be fine. The dose depends on how much you sweat and on how many electrolytes you get from your usual diet. 40,000 Volts! Take 1 tsp once a day. Concentrace Trace Mineral Drops: You can add these drops to water or another beverage. About 40 drops per day. Trace Minerals Complex: In case you would prefer a capsule. Take 1 daily. 6. Also, sometimes people will use a binder after the sauna. When you increase your blood flow in the sauna, in addition to excreting toxins through your sweat, your liver will also pour toxins into your gut. A binder can grab on to the toxins so they don’t get reabsorbed further down in the GI tract. Binders can be very constipating, however, so make sure to drink lots of water, and skip this step if it makes you uncomfortable. Unfortunately, if you do take a binder, you can’t take any other supplements at the same time (including electrolytes), so you’ll have to space those out by an hour. Activated charcoal: Take 2 caps after the sauna. Try to start with 2 sessions per week. It can take a lot out of you, so give your body time to recover. If you feel ok with two, you can increase to 4 sessions per week. Sometimes people feel great right away; sometimes people feel run down and flu-like in the beginning. I would give it a solid month to see an improvement.
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TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
Brain & Body Power MAX is a combination supplement formulated by Dr. Daniel Amen and based on his research with traumatic brain injury patients. There is an immediate benefit, but with continued use over time this protocol can facilitate repair of past injuries especially when used as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Take 1 packet twice a day with food. It can be a little stimulating, so do not take it close to bedtime.
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AUTISM: chewable, liquid, powder
These key supplements are necessary for optimal neurological function and development. Adequate levels of these nutrients can provide a foundation for other interventions. 1. Vitamin D drops: Add 1 drop (2000 IU) per day to any food or beverage. Take with a meal. Vitamin D is critical for immune function, sleep quality, mood, and more. It will take at least a month for the blood level of vitamin D to change, so you may not notice an immediate change in behavior. 2. Liquid Magnesium: Start with 10 drops once a day added to a food or beverage and increase gradually up to 40 drops (about half a teaspoon) daily. Magnesium is necessary for over 300 different chemical reactions in the body, including many that involve neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. It often has a calming effect, which is noticeable right away. This formulation also contains trace minerals, including lithium which is helpful for mood and cognition. Magnesium (any kind) usually has a laxative effect, so if your loved one experiences diarrhea, split the dose throughout the day. For other forms and flavors of magnesium, see the protocol entitled “MAGNESIUM: chewable, liquid, and powder,” which also includes topical options. 3. CorOmega MAX Citrus Burst: Take one squeeze packet per day. Omega-3's (from fish oil) are one of the most critical nutrients necessary for neurological function and are largely deficient in the diets of most Americans. This supplement contains a much higher dose than most other chewable or liquid forms, and many patients have found it to be quite palatable. *Please note that this does contain egg. Barlean's also makes several flavors of concentrated fish oil which do not contain egg. 4. Hydroxo B12 with Folinic Acid: Dissolve one lozenge every morning. This contains forms of vitamins B9 (folate) and B12 that almost all people can tolerate, regardless of genetic variants. These are key vitamins necessary for detoxification, energy production in the brain, neurotransmitter metabolism, and numerous other processes. 5. Probiota HistaminX Powder: Start with a pinch of powder added to food or beverage and increase gradually up to 1-3 scoops per day. Many individuals with autism (especially those with methylation deficits) have sensitivity to histamine, which can contribute to anxiety, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, hyperactivity, and insomnia. This probiotic contains strains that specifically breakdown histamine in foods or created by other gut bacteria. The effects of this may take several weeks, and some people go through an adjustment phase during which they experience some changes in GI function (bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, cramping). These usually subside within 2-4 weeks. Use with caution if your loved one is non-verbal, since he or she may not be able to express himself or herself if the only symptom is pain.
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