Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q: Hi Terry, “I know a 10 year old boy who has been dealing with Tourette’s Syndrome for one year. Specialists have been unable to help the problem. Do you have any recommendations?”—Sherry L., Flowery Branch, GA A: Dear Sherry, Tourette’s is a neurological disorder that is usually diagnosed in childhood. One of the most common symptoms is the presence of “tics,” which are quick, often repetitive, movements or sounds. Most cases are mild, but some can be severe and life-disrupting. There are theories regarding how it occurs, and some evidence that there may be a genetic component. Usually these tics (for example, blinking, shoulder shrugging, lip puckering, etc) are not physically harmful, but they can be quite damaging to the child’s self-esteem and healthy socialization. I would urge the child’s parents to discuss my suggestions for supplements to make sure their pediatrician or neurologist is in agreement. First, I would recommend omega 3 fatty acids bound to phospholipids from salmon, extracted using a process called vectorization, which assures optimal absorption and far fewer pills to swallow than fish oil. One of these Omega 3s, DHA, has a great deal of impact on improving brain and neurological system function. There are many clinical studies on DHA and brain health. Next, I would recommend the bioactive form of vitamin B6 called pyridoxal-5-phosphate, or P-5-P for short. This form of B6 is exactly what the body needs—no conversion necessary—and has excellent, proven impact on neurological function. I prefer to use a P-5-P with magnesium glycinate, as I believe the magnesium itself is much needed by the nervous system. It can exert a calming effect. Did you know that the average Chinese diet contains THREE TIMES the magnesium as the Standard American Diet? We could all benefit from this crucial mineral, but children with neurological conditions perhaps even more so. Good luck to your friend and this young man. Surround him with love and support. Let him know he is the wonderful child he is, and help him understand that this disease does not define him. And I hope you will let me know his progress as his family incorporates these suggestions!