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Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently experience abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea. In recent years, growing evidence suggests that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is closely associated with gastrointestinal health. Research indicates that the bacterial populations of the gut microbiome can influence gastrointestinal and neurobehavioral ASD symptoms.
Although there is no cure for ASD, various medications, diets, supplements, and therapies can help manage its symptoms. Owing to the strong connection between the gut microbiome and ASD, interventions aimed at normalizing the gut microbiome might help manage ASD symptoms.
This post explains how autism is linked to gut bacteria, how a mother’s gut bacteria can affect a child’s risk of ASD, and why one should consider butyric acid supplementation to help manage ASD symptoms. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
The gut contains millions of nerve cells that form an extensive network called the enteric nervous system (ENS), also known as the ‘second brain.’ The ENS and the central nervous system (CNS), mainly connected through the vagus nerve, form the gut-brain axis.
The bi-directional communication between our gut and brain through the ENS, CNS, hormones, neurotransmitters, and immune responses greatly influences neurological and gastrointestinal health. For example, as much as 90 percent of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, are produced in the gut and influence our emotions by regulating the gut-brain axis.
The human gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacterial cells primarily involved in beneficial activities such as producing metabolites, transporting them, and maintaining gut homeostasis. However, various pathogenic microbes, like Clostridium bolteae, can adversely affect the gut, resulting in unwanted gastrointestinal conditions. Interestingly, Clostridium bacteria in the colon is associated with a higher risk and severity of ASD, potentially due to mechanisms involving gut-brain interactions and neurotoxic metabolite production.1
Several pilot studies on the gastrointestinal bacterial composition in ASD reveal that the gut microbiota composition is distinctive in ASD children. A high acidic pH level in their stools indicates an imbalance in the microbiota that can lead to downstream adverse effects on the gastrointestinal and nervous systems through the gut-brain axis.
The following table highlights several studies indicating how autism is linked to gut bacteria.
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Links Between Autism and Gut Bacteria |
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These studies indicate how the presence of pathogenic and less diverse gut microbial composition might elicit adverse neurobehavioral symptoms via the gut-brain connection.
In addition, ASD symptoms are associated with higher levels of intestinal permeability and defects in the gastrointestinal barrier.4 A higher level of intestinal permeability can result in toxins and the by-products produced by pathogenic bacteria traveling through the gut-brain axis, which can then disrupt chemical balances in the brain and exacerbate ASD symptoms.
Multiple short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the large intestine are produced from the fermentation of carbohydrates, such as dietary fibers, by the gut’s microbiota. SCFAs can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect CNS functions, such as regulating oxidative stress and neuronal cell death, and maintaining normal inflammatory responses in nerve cells. The primary short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the large intestine are:
Studies show altered gut compositions in children with ASD, characterized by elevated levels of SCFAs, particularly propionic acid. Excess propionic acid that crosses the blood-brain barrier sets the stage for a toxic environment that can result in cognitive and motor impairments. It has been observed that the greater the gastrointestinal disturbance in autistic children, the greater the risk of behavioral problems, language impairment, and irritability.
Although the exact mechanism of SCFAs’ influence on the CNS is still unclear, research indicates that SCFAs do modify neurological processes at the molecular level and thus have the potential to affect behavior.
Evidence for the role of SCFAs in influencing CNS functions highlights their role in influencing the gut-brain axis and their fluctuating levels.
Animal studies indicate that variations in maternal gut microbiota might increase the risk of ASD in children. The maternal gut microbiota is associated with neurodevelopmental abnormalities in mouse offspring. Further studies highlight a strong genetic influence on the development of autism.
In a pilot study examining the relationship between the gut microbiome profiles of children with ASD and their mothers, researchers observed a striking correlation between the microbiomes of the mother-child pairs.5 However, because the mothers of children with ASD were neurotypical, they presented variations in their bacterial biomarkers. Compared to their mothers, children with ASD harbor unique bacterial biomarkers, such as increased amounts of the pathogenic genera Alcaligenaceae, Clostridium, Haemophilus, and Wautersiella.
Interestingly, emerging studies have also indicated that both genetic and epigenetic factors in paternal sperm also play a significant role in the development of ASD in children.
Both preliminary research and anecdotal evidence indicate that probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary changes can be effective in addressing the symptoms of autism. The following table highlights several key dietary nutrients that can beneficially address ASD symptoms.
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Key Dietary Nutrients for Managing the Symptoms of Autism |
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The link between autism, gut bacteria, and gut health is well-established. As a key energy substrate for colon cells, butyric acid enhances mitochondrial function in cell lines in male children with autism.6
For all children with ASD, butyric acid supplementation can enhance gut health by up-regulating the beneficial activity of the white blood cells in the colon, thereby generating a more normal inflammatory response. Butyric acid might also serve as a critical metabolite to help rescue energy metabolism in ASD-affected individuals.
AuRx® is a stabilized butyric acid complex developed by Tesseract Medical Research to provide specific nutritional support for children with ASD. This hypoallergenic formulation, delivered in a palatable-tasting powder, enables the maximum absorption and bioavailability of butyric acid molecules through the proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology. Tesseract’s gold-standard medical food is intended to counter the gut-brain nutrient imbalance experienced by children with ASD.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support your neurological health.*
References
1Rosenfeld CS. Microbiome disturbances and Autism Spectrum Disorders.” Drug Metabolism and Disposition: The Biological Fate of Chemicals vol. 43,10 (2015):1557-1571. doi:10.1124/dmd.115.063826
2Abuljadayel D, et al. Gut microbiota of children with autism spectrum disorder and healthy siblings: A comparative study. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine vol. 28,5 430. 16 Sep. 2024, doi:10.3892/etm.2024.12719
3Kang D-W, et al. Reduced incidence of Prevotella and other fermenters in intestinal microflora of autistic children. PloS One vol. 8,7 e68322. 3 Jul. 2013, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0068322
4Li Q, et al. The gut microbiota and Autism Spectrum Disorders.” Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience vol. 11 120. 28 Apr. 2017, doi:10.3389/fncel.2017.00120
5Li N, et al. Correlation of gut microbiome between ASD children and mothers and potential biomarkers for risk assessment.” Genomics, Proteomics & Bioinformatics vol. 17,1 (2019):26-38. doi:10.1016/j.gpb.2019.01.002
6Rose S, et al. Butyrate enhances mitochondrial function during oxidative stress in cell lines from boys with autism. Translational Psychiatry vol. 8,1 42. 2 Feb. 2018, doi:10.1038/s41398-017-0089-z
Article Summary:
Arteries and veins form the intricate network of blood vessels in the body that sustain the circulatory system, ensuring the efficient transport of oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and metabolic waste throughout the body. The body’s vasculature includes the major arteries, such as the aorta, as well as smaller arteries, arterioles, capillaries, post-capillary venules, and collecting central veins. Several factors, including diet, lifestyle, aging, stress, injury, family history, and certain health conditions, can significantly impact vascular integrity and overall cardiovascular function. Impaired vascular health can contribute to endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, and an increased risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease.
While a balanced diet and regular physical activity are vital in maintaining vascular health, specific nutrients and bioactive compounds have been shown to support endothelial function, enhance nitric oxide production, mitigate oxidative stress, and improve microcirculation. This post discusses several key nutritional supplements for promoting arterial and venous health, and why you should include an advanced supplement formulation for optimal absorption and bioavailability of the supplement’s active ingredients.*
Vitamins, minerals, and other specific compounds are known to exert vasculoprotective effects.* Vitamin B3, folic acid, vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and minerals, such as selenium and zinc, are associated with promoting cardiovascular health, including healthy arteries and veins.* The following table highlights the effects of several compounds, other than vitamins and minerals, used as active nutrients in supplements that support healthy arteries and veins.*
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Active Nutrients in Supplements for Healthy Arteries and Veins |
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| Nattokinase: The potent enzyme nattokinase, which is released during the fermentation of soybeans, has several beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system.* Nattokinase has been found to help maintain healthy arteries by lowering lipid peroxidation, maintaining normal blood viscosity, and enhancing lipid metabolism.*1 |
| Anandamide: This endocannabinoid shows the potential to inhibit neurogenic vasodilation of dural blood vessels in the brain.* The hypotensive mechanism of action of anandamide is associated with the excitation of sensory nerves and the release of vasodilator peptides to induce vasodilation of isolated arteries.*2 |
| Coenzyme Q10: CoQ10 is an endogenously synthesized compound that acts as an electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain.* As an antioxidant, CoQ10 enhances endothelial function by reducing the source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the vascular system and enhancing nitric oxide levels for vasodilation.* It is suggested that CoQ10 improves vascular function and helps maintain normal blood pressure levels in specific health conditions characterized by elevated oxidative and nitrosative stress.*3 |
| L-Citrulline: This amino acid is produced by the body and is a precursor of L-arginine, a substrate for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) — a key enzyme and signaling molecule that helps regulate various cardiovascular functions. L-citrulline increases vasodilation and blood flow through increased NO production.* A study on the efficacy of L-citrulline on arterial health in middle-aged men suggested that short-term L-citrulline supplementation functionally improves arterial health, independent of blood pressure.*4 |
| Lipoic Acid: This fatty acid is an antioxidant produced by the body and is also available in various dietary sources. In a study evaluating the effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on vascular function, it was found that ALA enhances endothelial function by increasing the bioavailability of endothelium-derived nitric oxide, lowering oxidative stress, and down-regulating adverse inflammatory responses in the vascular cells.*5 |
| Quercetin: Quercetin, a natural antioxidant and a major flavonoid, is abundantly found in fruits and vegetables. Research indicates that quercetin helps lower oxidative stress and exerts vasculoprotective effects through the up-regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and activation of the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway.*6 |
The efficacy of the above active nutrients as ingredients in nutritional supplements aimed at promoting healthy arteries and veins depends on their optimal absorption and bioavailability.* Targeted delivery of these nutrient molecules through nanotechnology enhances the solubility of the active nutrients.
The CyLoc® —DexKey® technology developed by Tesseract Medical Research is a nutrient delivery nanotechnology that maximizes the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients. Tesseract’s innovative technology protects the nutrient molecules from early degradation in the stomach, while ensuring their targeted delivery at the desired point in the intestinal tract for unprecedented absorption.
Tesseract Medical Research has developed several advanced supplements for promoting healthy arteries and veins utilizing this proprietary technology. The following are some of Tesseract’s key supplement formulations for promoting good vascular health.
All Tesseract nutritional supplements are manufactured following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), including the most advanced analytical techniques and a well-designed quality control system.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support cardiovascular health.*
References:
1Iwai K, et al. Antioxidative functions of natto, a kind of fermented soybeans: effect on LDL oxidation and lipid metabolism in cholesterol-fed rats. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry vol. 50,12 (2002):3597-3601. doi:10.1021/jf0117199
2Zygmunt PM, et al. Vanilloid receptors on sensory nerves mediate the vasodilator action of anandamide. Nature vol. 400,6743 (1999):452-457. doi:10.1038/22761
3Hodgson JM, Watts GF. Can coenzyme Q10 improve vascular function . . . ? Potential for effective therapeutic reduction in vascular oxidative stress. BioFactors (Oxford, England) vol. 18,1-4 (2003):129-136. doi:10.1002/biof.5520180215
4Ochiai M, et al. Short-term effects of L-citrulline supplementation . . . in middle-aged men. International Journal of Cardiology vol. 155,2 (2012):257-261. doi:10.1016/j.ijcard.2010.10.004
5Hajizadeh-Sharafabad F, Zahabi ES. Role of alpha-lipoic acid in vascular function: A systematic review of human intervention studies. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition vol. 62,11 (2022):2928-2941. doi:10.1080/10408398.2020.1861425
6Shen Y, et al. Quercetin and its metabolites improve vessel function by inducing eNOS activity via phosphorylation of AMPK. Biochemical Pharmacology vol. 84,8 (2012):1036-1044. doi:10.1016/j.bcp.2012.07.016
Are you wondering how to choose an effective nutritional supplement for your health goals?
When considering including a nutritional supplement in your diet, you should remember that nutritional supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease. Multiple commercially available nutritional supplements are being marketed as nutritional supplements. Determining the best supplement formulation that achieves the health and wellness benefits of the supplement’s active nutrients can be a challenge. Therefore, in this post, we will explain how to choose the right nutritional supplement, the factors that make the supplement effective, and why you should always consider choosing an advanced supplement formulation. Use the links below to jump ahead to a topic of interest.
What is the role of nutritional supplements? Do nutritional supplements compensate for the lack of nutrients in your diet? Nutritional supplements are not intended to replace the variety of foods that constitute a balanced diet. A balanced diet, an active lifestyle consisting of moderate-intensity exercising, and adequate sleep are the keys to good health and wellness. You cannot resolve unhealthy dietary patterns and lifestyles with nutritional supplements.
The role supplements can play is to assist with filling any nutritional shortcomings that can arise from specific health conditions, dietary restrictions, or a busy schedule. The appropriate nutritional supplement can provide targeted support for specific health functions and help address any gaps in the diet to achieve a a greater level of health and wellness.
Determining which ones are the right nutritional supplements for you depends on your nutritional requirements, health and fitness goals, and the need, if any, to manage symptoms associated with certain health conditions that are not otherwise being resolved using conventional approaches.
Your healthcare provider can best determine the appropriate nutritional supplements for your individual situation. Whether you are focusing on achieving a specific fitness goal or trying to alleviate certain health condition-related symptoms, it is always recommended to consult your health-care provider before adding any nutritional supplement to your diet.
After your healthcare provider advises you on which supplements you should be taking, how to choose a supplement that delivers meaningful benefits is your next challenge. A supplement cannot help you achieve the health benefits of the supplement’s active nutrients if:
Before you begin your search for the right nutritional supplement, it is critical to understand the fundamentals of effective supplements and how supplements work in the body.
Bioavailability is the proportion of a nutrient that is digested, absorbed, and metabolized through normal body pathways. So, when you are looking at the label of a nutritional supplement, it is not enough to just know how much of a particular ingredient is present in the formulation. Instead, how much of each ingredient present is bioavailable makes the difference.
The bioavailability of a nutrient depends on several factors, including:
For example, curcumin has poor oral bioavailability because of its low molecular stability. So, when you are taking a standard curcumin supplement, you might experience only minimal meaningful benefits. On the other hand, if you take a highly bioavailable curcumin supplement, then you can experience significant health-promoting benefits even with a comparatively smaller amount.
Iron is another example of poor nutrient absorption and low bioavailability, which can also cause unpleasant side effects. When taking an iron supplement, individuals with an inflamed gut can experience constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal side effects. Unabsorbed iron remains in the gut, which can result in gastrointestinal disturbances. A truly bioavailable form of iron can prevent these adverse gastrointestinal side effects.
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How Do Bioavailable Nutrients Make Better Supplement Formulations? |
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| a. Enhanced Absorption: Enhanced nutrient bioavailability results from enhanced nutrient absorption. With enhanced absorption of nutrients in the formulation, there are fewer risks of unpleasant side effects caused by unabsorbed nutrients remaining in the gut. |
| b. Targeted release: Advanced delivery techniques that enhance nutrient absorption and bioavailability enable targeted release of the nutrients in a supplement formulation. |
| c. Micro-Dosing: The more bioavailable a nutrient is, asmaller amount is required to achieve the desired health benefits. Bioavailable nutrients enable micro-dosing of the supplement formulation to achieve the desired health benefits. |
So, why aren’t all nutritional supplements highly bioavailable? Enhancing nutrient bioavailability is expensive. The manufacturing cost of creating nutritional supplements with bioavailable nutrients that can retain their integrity while passing through the gastrointestinal tract is high. Unfortunately, many manufacturers keep their costs down while formulating supplements, leading to formulations with poor nutrient bioavailability.
Ineffective bioavailability enhancements refer to improving the bioavailability of nutrients while sacrificing the tolerability and safety of the formulation.
For example, piperine, an alkaloid found in black pepper, has been found to significantly enhance the bioavailability of curcumin.1 Piperine inhibits the liver’s metabolic processes that break down curcumin molecules, thereby maintaining the molecule’s integrity. However, intake of an excessive amount of piperine can cause gut inflammation and loose stools. The potential side effects of piperine can impact the health benefits of curcumin-piperine co-supplementation.
To avoid ineffective bioavailability enhancements, several advanced pharmacological approaches are being used, including:
When you are choosing a nutritional supplement, the objective is to experience the health-promoting benefits of the active ingredients in the formulation. The efficacy of a supplement formulation – its ability to achieve the desired benefits – depends on the following:
Additionally, you should choose nutritional supplements from a trusted manufacturer who adheres to high quality manufacturing standards and develops quality formulations that make nutrients a therapeutic reality.
The nutritional supplements manufactured by Tesseract Medical Research have long been recognized as being among the best in the supplement industry because of their advanced nutrient delivery technology. Tesseract has formulated a wide range of nutritional supplements with proven nutrients that promote various health and wellness functions. Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables the delivery of active nutrient molecules through the gastrointestinal tract — one palatable molecule at a time. CyLoc® technology encases each molecule and creates nano-sized particles, thereby protecting the molecule from breaking down during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release the CyLoc®-enclosed molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract for maximum absorption, bioavailability, and effectiveness.
This revolutionary technology has enhanced the bioavailability of conventionally difficult-to-absorb molecules, such as curcumin and glutathione. And the unprecedented absorption of nutrient molecules in the gastrointestinal tract also enables micro-dosing, which means using a lower amount of the active ingredient in a supplement formulation than previously required.
At Tesseract Medical Research, we are committed to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). We utilize the most appropriate and scientifically advanced analytical techniques, as well as a well-designed quality control system, to develop the finest quality nutritional supplements.
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to choose a nutritional supplement.
The Supplement Facts panel on the product label provides important information about active ingredients, the amount per serving, and the presence of “Other Ingredients,” such as binders, fillers, and flavorings. Consult your healthcare provider before deciding on your individual serving size of the supplement.
Always find as much information as possible beforehand about the potential side effects of the active ingredients in a supplement formulation. Consult your healthcare provider before including any new nutritional supplement in your diet. They can assess any potential contraindications of the active ingredient(s) with any prescription medication you might be taking.
Determine whether the supplement manufacturer follows GMP practices established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration which will ensure the identity, purity, strength, and composition of the supplement. Following GMPs prevents the addition of any wrong ingredient to the formulation, reduces the chance of contamination, and ensures the proper packaging/ labeling of the supplement.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption, and bioavailability, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support your health.*
Reference:
1Shoba G, et al. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Medica vol. 64,4 (1998):353-356. doi:10.1055/s-2006-957450
Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that lacks a satisfactory cure and requires long-term management. As a result, parents of children with ASD often resort to complementary and alternative therapies, the most common being dietary interventions, such as nutritional supplements and medical foods, to alleviate their child’s ASD symptoms.
This post explains different possible nutritional supplements for autism symptoms, including vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics, that help manage the symptoms. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
The relationship between nutrition and ASD symptoms is complex. Children with ASD often show food selectivity, limited food intake, and behavioral problems during mealtimes. Food selectivity includes limited food choices, selective intake of some foods, excessive consumption of some foods, and the rejection of other foods.
The elevated risk of developing eating disorders often predisposes children with ASD to nutritional deficiencies. In a 2023 study assessing the nutritional intake and adequacy in children with ASD and typically developing (TD) children, it was found that:
The study concluded that although both groupshad a significantly inadequate intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, children with ASD had overall poorer diet quality.1 The nutritional deficiencies resulting from such inadequate diets may directly or indirectly influence the exacerbation ofsymptoms of ASD.
A cross-sectional study of 210 participants aged 4-17 years with ASD found that multi-vitamins, vitamin D, omega-3s, probiotics, and magnesium are the most common nutritional supplements for autism. Other nutritional supplements, such as sodium butyrate, alpha-lipoic acid, selenium, adrenal cortex extract, milk thistle, cannabidiol, melatonin, and liposomal curcumin, are also used to alleviate ASD symptoms. The study assessed the key parental reasons for providing nutritional supplementation to children with ASD:
The following table highlights how the most common nutritional supplements for autism help fill the nutritional gaps in an ASD child’s diet.
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Common Nutritional Supplements for Autism |
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A significant number of children with ASD struggle with gastrointestinal discomfort, including indigestion, constipation, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. with ASD have variable gut bacterial diversity. Gut microbiota affects brain physiology through differential metabolites, such as SCFAs, ammonia, and p-cresol.
Supplementing the microbiota-gut-brain axis with probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics can help alleviate ASD symptoms. Research indicates that gut health supplements can help relieve gastrointestinal disturbances and behavioral issues in children with ASD.2
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Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics for ASD |
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| Probiotics: These are live microorganisms, usually beneficial bacteria, that support the growth of the microbial community in the GI tract. Food sources containing probiotics include fermented foods such as kimchi and high-quality plain yogurt, which contain healthy bacterial strains. |
| Prebiotics: The beneficial bacteria in the gut feed on prebiotics for growth. Examples of prebiotic foods include soybeans, legumes, raw oats, and high-fiber fruits and vegetables. |
| Postbiotics: These are the bacterial products or metabolic byproducts produced by gut microbes during the anaerobic fermentation of organic nutrients. Short-chain fatty acids (butyric acid), certain vitamins, amino acids, and enzymes are examples of postbiotics. |
The benefits of butyric acid on gastrointestinal health are well known. This short-chain fatty acid the gut microbiome produces beneficially influences intestinal cells, adipose (fatty) tissues, hepatocytes, pancreatic cells, and blood vessels through several signaling pathways. Some of the critical gut health benefits of butyrate include:
The following table highlights two reports that describe the benefits of butyric acid supplementation to address ASD symptoms.
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Studies Supporting Butyric Acid Supplementation to Address ASD Symptoms |
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| Effect of Sodium Butyrate in the BTBR Autism Mouse Model: A 2016 study assessing the effects of sodium butyrate on social and repetitive behaviors in mice found that sodium butyrate supplementation induced changes in several behavior-related genes in the prefrontal cortex of the brain.5 It particularly affected the genes involved in neuronal excitation/inhibition. The transcription modulation by sodium butyrate suggests its potential beneficial effects on autism-related behaviors. | |
| Effects of sodium butyrate to alleviate Hypothalmic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis Hyperactivity in Autism-Like Rats: In a 2023 study on a prenatal lipopolysaccharide-exposed rat model of ASD, the rat model exhibited lower SCFA concentrations and overactivation of HPA axis.6 Treatment with sodium butyrate helped regulate the HPA axis and improved anxiety and social deficit behaviors in LPS-exposed offspring. |
Not all supplementation formulas for ASD are created equal. Formulations that utilize advanced nutrient delivery systems enhance the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients. Nutritional supplements and medical foods cannot achieve the advantages of complementary therapies without the optimal solubility and bioavailability of active nutrients.
Tesseract Medical Research has developed various nutritional supplement and medical food formulations that promote and benefit various health functions. Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables maximum bioavailability of nutrients to achieve their health-promoting benefits. CyLoc® technology envelopes each active nutrient molecule in its smart delivery system to protect the molecule’s integrity during transit through the stomach. CyLoc technology also masks the unpalatable taste and odor of specific nutrient molecules. The accompanying DexKey® technology releases the nutrient molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract to optimize their absorption.
The unprecedented absorption of active nutrients translates to optimal bioavailability, which enables micro-dosing of the formulation’s nutrients. This means a lesser amount of nutrients is needed than previously required to achieve the desired therapeutic outcome.
Tesseract’s AuRx® is an advanced butyric acid formulation that addresses a specific nutritional requirement of children with ASD. This hypoallergenic medical food is a stabilized butyric acid complex that provides nutritional support to counteract the gut-brain nutrient imbalance in an ASD child. AuRx opens up the possibility of alleviating behavioral changes faced by children with ASD.
The following are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about nutritional supplementation for autism.
There is no ‘one-solution-fits-all’ to address the nutritional requirements of ASD. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider to assess any nutritional deficiencies in your child before considering supplementation options that might help alleviate ASD symptoms.
While earlier dietary intervention might be ideal for managing ASD symptoms, you should always consult your child’s healthcare provider to determine the dosages, side effects, and potential contraindications of any dietary intervention, including nutritional supplements and medical foods.
The efficacy of a nutritional supplement or a medical food depends on the active nutrients in the formulation and their optimal absorption and bioavailability. When considering either a nutritional supplement or a medical food for autism, you should always look for the desired ingredient being the active nutrient in the formulation and an advanced nutrient delivery technology that ensures the optimal absorption and bioavailability of the active ingredient to ensure it achieves its health-promoting benefits.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, bioavailability, and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support neurological health.*
References:
1Arija V, et al. Nutrient intake and adequacy in children with autism spectrum disorder: EPINED epidemiological study. Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice vol. 27,2 (2023):371-388. doi:10.1177/13623613221098237
2Feng P, et al. A review of probiotics in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders: Perspectives from the gut-brain axis. Frontiers in Microbiology vol. 14 1123462. 16 Mar. 2023, doi:10.3389/fmicb.2023.1123462
3Canani RB, et al. Gastroenterology vol. 127,2 (2004):63063-63064. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2004.03.071
4Siddiqui MT, Gail AMC. Journal of Inflammation Research vol. 14 6025-6041. 18 Nov. 2021, doi:10.2147/JIR.S300989
5Kratsman N, et al. Sodium butyrate attenuates social behavior deficits and modifies the transcription of inhibitory/excitatory genes in the frontal cortex of an autism model. Neuropharmacology vol. 102 (2016):136-145. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.11.003
6Wang X, et al. Sodium butyrate facilitates CRHR2 expression to alleviate HPA axis hyperactivity in autism-like rats induced by prenatal lipopolysaccharides through histone deacetylase inhibition. mSystems vol. 8,4 (2023): e0041523. doi:10.1128/msystems.00415-23
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurological and developmental disorder, typically begins in early childhood, with symptoms generally appearing in the first two years of life. It is characterized by limited and repetitive behavioral patterns that hinder social interaction and communication skills.
| According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children has been identified with ASD, and current statistics identify it is nearly four times more common among boys than girls. |
If you have a child who has been diagnosed with ASD, it is hard to accept there is no cure. Instead, the primary goal becomes helping to alleviate ASD symptoms through medications, diets, supplements, and therapies to optimize your child’s ability to function. The common nutritional supplements given to children with ASD include multivitamins, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and probiotics and postbiotics.
This article explains the benefits of a particular postbiotic, butyric acid, in children with ASD and how AuRx®, a proprietary butyric acid medical food developed by Tesseract Medical Research, is scripting autism success stories. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
The primary short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the large intestine are acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid. These SCFAs arise from the fermentation of carbohydrates, such as dietary fibers, by the gut’s microbiota. Notably, SCFAs readily cross the blood-brain barrier and can exert powerful effects on the central nervous system (CNS).
Although the exact mechanism of SCFAs’ influence on the CNS is still unclear, research indicates that SCFAs influence neurological processes at the molecular level and affect behavior.1 Studies further show that children with ASD have altered gut composition, characterized by elevated levels of SCFAs, particularly propionic acid.2
Excess propionic acid that crosses the blood-brain barrier sets the stage for a toxic environment that can result in cognitive and motor impairments. It has been observed that the greater the gastrointestinal disturbance in autistic children, the greater the risk of behavioral problems, language impairment, and irritability.
The evidence on the role of SCFAs in influencing CNS functions highlights their role in influencing the gut-brain axis and their fluctuating levels.
Al Czap, the founder of Tesseract Medical Research, is well-versed in the difficulties faced by children with ASD and their caregivers. He developed a medical food called AuRx® — a stabilized butyric acid complex, to provide specific nutritional support for children with ASD. This hypoallergenic formulation has enabled parents to witness remarkable autism success stories resulting from countering the gut-brain nutrient imbalance experienced by children with ASD.
Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables maximum absorption and bioavailability of butyric acid to bring positive behavioral changes in affected children. The CyLoc® technology envelopes each butyric acid molecule to mask its taste and maintain its integrity during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors enable targeted delivery of butyric acid molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract for optimal absorption. The highly absorbable therapeutic reality can bring positive behavioral changes in ASD children.
It is worth noting that beginning an AuRx® daily regimen is not the end of ASD symptoms. AuRx® won’t likely be a sufficient monotherapy for every child with ASD, but it can complement other types of interventions when added to a comprehensive treatment plan. The following are several success stories that highlight how AuRx® is transforming the lives of children with ASD.
Max was six when he was diagnosed with ASD. He struggled with social interactions and sensory issues and had trouble concentrating.
After starting AuRx®, Max showed remarkable improvements, including:
After being introduced to AuRx®, Joey showed notable positive differences in speech, eye-hand coordination, attitude, and social interactions, all in just a few months.
Luna began showing gradual weekly improvements after starting AuRx®.
Jack was a hyperactive toddler with limited verbal ability, repeating behavior, and aggression. Jack underwent various ASD treatment approaches, including OCD treatments, homeopathy, ABA therapy, and speech therapy.
After being introduced to AuRx®:
As a 10-year-old, Noah faced consistent difficulties in school due to irritable outbursts and diminished communication ability. After beginning an AuRx® daily regimen, Noah showed noticeable positive changes in his behavior, including:
These changes were not coincidental. It was reported that when Noah did not have his AuRx® on a family vacation, his symptoms returned and were better managed when his AuRx® was resumed.
*Note: Autism success stories have been provided by parents of children with ASD, and names have been changed to protect privacy.
Al Czap says, “When you meet a patient’s issues really well, it makes your heart melt.” These autism success stories reflect the efficacy of AuRx® in helping to alleviate ASD symptoms. With the growing use of AuRx, more parents of children with ASD are likely to experience similar successes.
Although most dietary therapies designed for children with ASD target the CNS, there is growing evidence that multiple ASD symptoms are tied to the child’s gut health. AuRx® is formulated to support gut health, which, in turn, is connected to the CNS through the gut-brain axis.
Children with ASD are often reported to experience imbalanced inflammatory responses in the gut, resulting in an overstimulated gut-brain axis, which potentially causes sensations of bloating, abdominal discomfort, and resultant exacerbated behavioral symptoms. Butyric acid, the primary nutrient in AuRx®, helps maintain a balanced inflammatory response in the gastrointestinal tract, thus promoting gut and neurological health.
The following table highlights how AuRx® helps alleviate ASD symptoms.
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Factors That Make AuRx® A Gold Standard Medical Food |
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| a. Optimal Absorption: AuRx’s proprietary nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables optimal absorption of butyric acid molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract. | |
| b. Optimal Bioavailability: The targeted delivery of butyric acid enhances butyric acid’s bioavailability. | |
| c. Enhanced Palatability: Masking butyric acid’s unpleasant taste and odor enhances the formulation’s palatability, resulting in optimal patient compliance. |
Children with autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) often exhibit mitochondrial abnormalities and impaired energy production. ASD is also associated with increased oxidative stress and lower antioxidant capacity.
While propionic acid disturbs gastrointestinal function in a manner similar to the abnormalities in ASD, butyric acid has been found to positively up-regulate mitochondrial function, the blood-brain barrier, and gut permeability. Butyric acid has further shown promising results as a neuroprotectant agent in alleviating ASD symptoms by enhancing mitochondrial function and driving the energy metabolism of colonocytes or colon cells.3
The concentration of SCFAs in both the intestines and in circulation depends on an individual’s diet, intestinal microbiota, and metabolism. Supplemental butyric acid can enhance the gut microbiome, thus helping to maintain healthy levels of SCFAs to alleviate ASD symptoms.
Here are some frequently asked questions about ASD:
You should always consult with your child’s healthcare provider before considering a dietary intervention for a child diagnosed with ASD. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all solution’ for children with ASD, and a health expert can best determine your child’s nutrient requirements for alleviating ASD symptoms.
As Czap says, “The younger we can intervene, the quicker we can analyze the child and the better served we are in responding.” While beginning a dietary intervention earlier is beneficial to address the symptoms, it is always recommended to consult with a health-care provider before including a medical food such as AuRx in the child’s diet, regardless of age.
It should be noted that some dietary interventions might not prove to be a sufficient monotherapy for achild with ASD but can work best when added to a comprehensive treatment plan. Various other dietary changes might also be required — changes typically involve modifying the type or quantity of dietary fiber the child is consuming.
The efficacy of supplemental butyric acid also depends on its absorption and bioavailability. A formulation with advanced nutrient delivery nanotechnology developed for optimal solubility can achieve the benefits of the butyric acid to help alleviate ASD symptoms.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption, and bioavailability, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support an autistic child’s neurological health.*
References:
1Lagod PP, Naser SA. The role of short-chain fatty acids and altered microbiota composition in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A comprehensive literature review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences vol. 24,24 17432. 13 Dec. 2023, doi:10.3390/ijms242417432
2MacFabe DF, et al. Effects of the enteric bacterial metabolic product propionic acid on object-directed behavior, social behavior, cognition, and neuroinflammation in adolescent rats: Relevance to autism spectrum disorder. Behavioural Brain Research vol. 217,1 (2011):47-54. doi:10.1016/j.bbr.2010.10.005
3Rose S, et al. Butyrate enhances mitochondrial function during oxidative stress in cell lines from boys with autism. Translational Psychiatry vol. 8,1 42. 2 Feb. 2018, doi:10.1038/s41398-017-0089-z
Glutathione, the body’s so-called “master antioxidant” – has several health-promoting benefits, including enhancing detoxification, limiting oxidative stress, and supporting various other health functions.* Glutathione is an important non-enzymatic antioxidant that is found in almost every cell in the body, with a similar concentration as other vital nutrients, such as glucose and potassium.
Although your body’s glutathione level decreases with age, poor diet, certain lifestyle choices, and adverse health conditions, taking a glutathione supplement may help maintain a normal level. With that being said, can taking a glutathione supplement with other supplements enhance its health-promoting benefits? This post describes the benefits of taking a glutathione supplement with other supplements, and why you should always look for an advanced glutathione supplement formulation to support your health and wellness. Use the links below to jump ahead to a topic of interest.
Glutathione supplements come in several forms, including oral, intranasal, intravenous/ intramuscular, and nebulized. When taken orally, they are generally considered safe and have no serious adverse side effects. Oral delivery is the most common method of glutathione supplementation, although it is not the most effective method for optimal absorption.
Although glutathione supplements promote various health functions, including the nervous, immune, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems, as well as skin and hair,* It is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before including a glutathione supplement in your diet.
Given glutathione’s several health benefits, you might wonder about the effects of co-supplementation of this “master antioxidant” with other supplements. The following sections describe the benefits of taking a glutathione supplement with other supplements.
The short answer is yes. Several recent studies have explored the benefits of co-supplementing glutathione with, respectively, vitamin C, berberine, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and alpha-lipoic acid. Although the safety profiles of glutathione and these compounds it is co-supplemented with are well established, not every study is conclusive about the beneficial effects of co-supplementation.
When considering taking a glutathione supplement with other supplements, it is worth noting that the beneficial effects of the co-supplementation depend significantly on the absorption and bioavailability of each supplement and the safety of the supplement formulations.
Vitamin C and glutathione have interconnected antioxidant functions and are mutually essential for each other. The combined intake of these two antioxidants to enhance exercise performance has used diverse approaches and results have been inconsistent.1 Although the additive effect of co-supplementing glutathione and vitamin C is anticipated, more research is required to establish their synergistic effects.
Both glutathione and berberine help maintain normal glucose metabolism, enhance insulin secretion, and lower insulin resistance.*
Glucose metabolism modulates the responses of insulin-secreting pancreatic islet beta-cells. It has been found that the enzyme pyruvate carboxylase is required for glutathione synthesis in these islet cells, promoting their antioxidant capacity to counter the stress associated with high blood glucose levels.2
Berberine stimulates glucose breakdown, inhibits glucose synthesis from non-carbohydrate sources, promotes insulin secretion, and limits the digestion of carbohydrates in the intestine.*3
The following table highlights two studies that looked at the benefits of co-supplementing glutathione and berberine.
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Studies Exploring Berberine’s Effects on Glutathione Activity to Promote Glucose Metabolism |
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| Protective effects of berberine on antioxidant enzymes: An animal study investigating the protective effects of berberine in the liver tissue of type 2 diabetic rats found that berberine enhanced catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione activities in liver tissue and serum.4 | |||
| Impacts of berberine on the regulation of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)messenger RNAs: In a comparative study on a population of diabetic and normal mice, berberine recovered depleted levels of GPx, copper-zinc SOD, and manganese SOD m-RNA in diabetic mice to nearly the same levels as normal mice. The GSH levels, including the total GSH and reduced/ oxidized GSH levels, were restored to the normal level by berberine.5 | |||
Glutathione and CoQ10 have immense health-promoting potential because they are vital to various mitochondrial functions.* Mitochondrial glutathione regulates cellular energy production (ATP) and acts as the main line of defense against oxidative stress in the mitochondria.* Glutathione also acts as a cofactor for several antioxidant enzymes.* CoQ10 transfers electrons within the mitochondrial oxidative respiratory chain to produce cellular energ, in addition to enhancing the production of vital antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase, to mitigate oxidative stress.*
The following table highlights two studies that looked at the combined effects of glutathione and CoQ10.
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Combined Effects of Glutathione and CoQ10 |
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| Combined effects of glutathione and CoQ10 on reproductive health: In a randomized clinical trial, 83 infertile male subjects were administered combined supplementation of CoQ10, glutathione, l-carnitine/acetyl-l-carnitine, l-arginine, zinc, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, and selenium. The combined effects of the two supplements enhanced mitochondrial bioenergetics to improve sperm quality.*6 | |
| Combined effects of CoQ10 and glutathione against lipid peroxidation: Unsaturated lipid peroxidation by ROS yields highly reactive lipid peroxyl radicals that can be neutralized by vitamin E (α-tocopherol). CoQ10 (ubiquinol) generates α-tocopherol antioxidant activity.* The intermediate compound of these reactions (ubisemiquinone) further reacts with oxygen molecules or oxidizes further to the fully oxidized ubiquinone that does not react with oxygen. Reduced glutathione, NADP (an electron carrier), and other antioxidants, such as vitamin C, regenerate the oxidized CoQ10 (ubiquinone) and α-tocopherol and maintain their reduction states.*7 |
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In addition to scavenging free radicals, glutathione is also involved in recycling vitamins C and E.* Alpha-lipoic acid plays an essential role in mitochondrial dehydrogenase reactions, reacts with reactive oxygen species, and interacts with vitamin C and glutathione to recycle vitamin E.*
The following table highlights two studies that looked at the effects of co-supplementation with glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid.
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Studies Exploring Co-Supplementation of Glutathione and Alpha-Lipoic Acid |
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| Effects of lipoic acid and glutathione in protecting against microsomal lipid peroxidation: The combination of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and reduced lipoic acid protected against lipid peroxidation.*8 The beneficial effect is attributed to reduced lipoic acid, which reduces GSSG to GSH. | |||
| Effects of co-administration of alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione in a specific condition affecting the nervous system: Alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione might help limit adverse liver conditions. In a study of 42 individuals experiencing a particular condition affecting the nervous system, the co-administration of alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione had no significant effects on serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, or γ-glutamyltranspeptidase levels.9 | |||
Glutathione is well known for being a difficult-to-absorb molecule that negatively impacts its associated health benefits. The rapid natural absorption of oral glutathione in the gastrointestinal tract and its subsequent poor bioavailability are two major factors that hinder the efficacy of most glutathione supplements. This can be overcome by an advanced glutathione formulation that enhances glutathione’s bioavailability and its subsequent absorption in the body.
SafeCell® is an innovative glutathione supplement formulation developed by Tesseract Medical Research that solves glutathione’s bioavailability and absorption challenges. The acetylated glutathione formula utilizes Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology to maximize glutathione’s absorption, thus achieving glutathione health-promoting benefits.
Tesseract’s CyLoc® technology encases each glutathione molecule for safe passage through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release each active glutathione molecule at the desired point in the gastrointestinal tract, thus achieving optimal absorption. This unique SafeCell formulation supports natural detoxification pathways, modulates oxidative stress, promotes the optimal functioning of other antioxidants, and supports optimal cellular and neurological function by crossing the blood-brain barrier.* The Tesseract Detoxification Solution helps maintain optimal good health during aging.*
At Tesseract Medical Research, we are committed to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). We utilize the most appropriate and scientifically advanced analytical techniques and a well-designed quality control system to develop the finest quality nutritional supplements.
The following are some frequently asked questions about glutathione supplements:
When selecting a glutathione supplement, look for the ingredients in the formulation (when considering co-supplementation) and the nutrient delivery technology used to ensure optimal absorption and bioavailability of the active nutrients.
This question is best answered by your healthcare provider, who can inform you of potential contraindications of glutathione with other supplements and prescription medications.
Determine whether a manufacturer follows GMP practices established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ensure the identity, purity, strength, and composition of its supplements. GMPs prevent the addition of wrong ingredients to the formulation, reduce the chance of contamination, and ensure proper packaging and labeling.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption, and bioavailability, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your hepatic health.*
References:
1Lee E, et al. Vitamin C and glutathione supplementation: a review of their additive effects on exercise performance. Physical Activity and Nutrition vol. 27,3 (2023):36-43. doi:10.20463/pan.2023.0027
2Fu A, et al. Glucose metabolism and pyruvate carboxylase enhance glutathione synthesis and restrict oxidative stress in pancreatic islets. Cell Reports vol. 37,8 (2021):110037. doi:10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110037
3Cao C, Su M. Effects of berberine on glucose-lipid metabolism, inflammatory factors and insulin resistance in patients with metabolic syndrome. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine vol. 17,4 (2019):3009-3014. doi:10.3892/etm.2019.7295
4Zhou J-Y, Zhou S-W. Protective effect of berberine on antioxidant enzymes and positive transcription elongation factor b expression in diabetic rat liver. Fitoterapia vol. 82,2 (2011):184-189. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2010.08.019
5Lao-ong T, et al. Alteration of hepatic glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase expression in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice by berberine. Pharmaceutical Biology vol. 50,8 (2012):1007-1012. doi:10.3109/13880209.2012.655377
6Kopets R, et al. Dietary supplementation with a novel l-carnitine multi-micronutrient in idiopathic male subfertility involving oligo-, astheno-, teratozoospermia: A randomized clinical study. Andrology vol. 8,5 (2020):1184-1193. doi:10.1111/andr.12805
7Turunen M, et al. Metabolism and function of coenzyme Q. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta vol. 1660,1-2 (2004):171-199. doi:10.1016/j.bbamem.2003.11.012
8Bast A, Haenen GR. Interplay between lipoic acid and glutathione in the protection against microsomal lipid peroxidation. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta vol. 963,3 (1988):558-561. doi:10.1016/0005-2760(88)90326-8
9Puri BK, et al. Co-administration of α-lipoic acid and glutathione is associated with no significant changes in serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase or γ-glutamyltranspeptidase levels during the treatment of neuroborreliosis with intravenous ceftriaxone. Journal of Complementary & Integrative Medicine vol. 12,3 (2015):227-230. doi:10.1515/jcim-2014-0058
Article Summary:
The role of glutathione as the body’s “master antioxidant” is well-established. This potent tripeptide compound plays a key role in antioxidant defense, nutrient metabolism, and regulation of cellular events.* A glutathione deficiency is associated with oxidative stress, an underlying cause of several degenerative health conditions. Although glutathione supplementation has recently gained popularity for promoting skin health, its beneficial effects on overall health and wellness are also widely recognized.
Berberine, a compound derived from various plant sources (such as Oregon grape and goldenseal), has both antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity that promote optimal functioning of the heart, liver, gastrointestinal system, immune system, and endocrine system.* Notably, berberine is becoming immensely popular as a nutritional supplement for supporting weight management, although clinical evidence is currently inconclusive.
With the many wellness-promoting benefits of glutathione and berberine, can these two compounds be taken together to better achieve health outcomes? In this article, we will specifically focus on the benefits of glutathione and berberine on glucose metabolism* and why you should include an advanced supplement formulation in your diet.
One reason for having an undesirable blood glucose level can be attributed to oxidative stress and inflammation in liver cells. Dietary antioxidants, especially glutathione and berberine, promote optimal glucose metabolism, enhance insulin secretion, and lower insulin resistance, thereby achieving healthy levels of hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) and oxidative stress markers.
The following describes the individual effects of glutathione and berberine on helping to maintain healthy blood glucose levels.*
Glucose metabolism modulates the responses of the insulin-secreting pancreatic islet beta-cells. The enzyme pyruvate carboxylase is required for glutathione synthesis in these islet beta-cells, promoting their antioxidant capacity to counter the stress associated with high blood glucose levels. A 2021 study found there is a direct interplay between glucose metabolism and glutathione synthesis via pyruvate carboxylase.*1 As glucose metabolism and pyruvate carboxylase enhance glutathione synthesis, it coincidingly helps restrict oxidative stress in pancreatic islet beta-cells.
Berberine stimulates glucose breakdown, inhibits glucose synthesis from non-carbohydrate sources, promotes insulin secretion, and limits the digestion of carbohydrates in the intestine.* A 2019 study that assessed the effects of berberine on glucose-lipid metabolism and insulin resistance found that the combined application of berberine in individuals experiencing metabolic conditions helped regulate blood glucose and blood lipids and alleviated insulin resistance.*2
The following table highlights two studies that explored how berberine influences glutathione activity to better promote glucose metabolism
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Studies Exploring Berberine’s Effects on Glutathione Activity to Promote Glucose Metabolism |
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| Protective effects of berberine on antioxidant enzymes: A 2011 animal study investigating the protective effects of berberine in liver tissue of type 2 diabetic animal models found that berberine increased the levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione activity in liver tissue and serum.3 |
| Impacts of berberine on the regulation of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)messenger RNAs: In a 2012 comparative study on diabetic and normal animal subjects, berberine recovered depleted levels of GPx, copper-zinc SOD, and manganese SOD m-RNA in the diabetic mice to nearly the same levels as the normal mice. The GSH level, including the total GSH and reduced/ oxidized GSH levels, were restored to normal by berberine.4 |
Although the individual benefits of glutathione and berberine, as well as the synergistic effects of these compounds, on glucose metabolism are well established,* there is ongoing research on co-supplementation of glutathione and berberine.
Whether glutathione and berberine can be together depends on several factors:
Tesseract Medical Research has developed glutathione and berberine supplement formulations that promote endocrine health.* Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables unprecedented absorption of both compounds, thus achieving their health-promoting benefits and supporting healthy glucose metabolism.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, bioavailability, and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your endocrine health.*.*
1Fu A, et al. Glucose metabolism and pyruvate carboxylase enhance glutathione synthesis and restrict oxidative stress in pancreatic islets. Cell Reports vol. 37,8 (2021):110037. doi:10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110037
2Cao C, Su M. Effects of berberine on glucose-lipid metabolism, inflammatory factors and insulin resistance in patients with metabolic syndrome. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine vol. 17,4 (2019):3009-3014. doi:10.3892/etm.2019.7295
3Zhou J-Y, Zhou S-W. Protective effect of berberine on antioxidant enzymes and positive transcription elongation factor b expression in diabetic rat liver. Fitoterapia vol. 82,2 (2011):184-189. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2010.08.019
4Lao-ong T, et al. Alteration of hepatic glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase expression in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice by berberine. Pharmaceutical Biology vol. 50,8 (2012):1007-1012. doi:10.3109/13880209.2012.655377
Article Summary:
Oxidative stress in the body caused by an excessive level of free radicals and lipid peroxides is associated with several degenerative conditions. To resist this, glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid are critical components of the body’s endogenous antioxidant defense system by helping to eliminate free radicals and lipid peroxides.* In addition, research indicates that alpha-lipoic acid can regenerate other antioxidants, including glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
Can glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid be taken together, given that they are both antioxidants with proven health benefits? This post highlights several studies that describe the benefits of co-supplementation with glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid, the factors you should consider before co-supplementation, and why an advanced nutrient delivery system is crucial for optimal absorption of these two antioxidants.
Glutathione is the so-called “master antioxidant” that shields cellular macromolecules from reactive oxygen and nitrogen species.* It is also involved in detoxifying both xenobiotic (external) and endogenous (internal) compounds, such as medications, environmental toxic substances, and cellular metabolic waste.* In addition to scavenging free radicals, glutathione is also involved in promoting the recycling of vitamins C and E.* Glutathione exists in cells in two forms – reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG). Its depletion is strongly associated with various age-related health conditions and loss of functions.
Alpha-lipoic acid exists in right-handed (R-alpha lipoic acid) and left-handed (L-alpha lipoic acid) mirror image forms (or stereoisomers). Alpha-lipoic acid plays an essential role in up-regulating various beneficial mitochondrial reactions.* In addition, alpha-lipoic acid reacts with reactive oxygen species, interacts with vitamin C and glutathione to recycle vitamin E, helps maintain normal blood sugar levels, and acts as a redox regulator of proteins.*
Several studies have established the beneficial effects of alpha-lipoic acid on glutathione levels. In an animal study, alpha-lipoic acid supplementation increased total glutathione levels in the liver and blood.1 Lipoic acid supplementation limited the exercise-induced dip in heart glutathione S-transferase activity. In another study, alpha-lipoic acid protected against hepatotoxicity through the regeneration of glutathione through cell signaling pathways.*2
The following table highlights two studies that explored the effects of co-supplementation with glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid.
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Studies on Co-Supplementation of Glutathione and Alpha-Lipoic Acid |
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| Effects of lipoic acid and glutathione in protection against microsomal lipid peroxidation: The combination of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and reduced lipoic acid protects against lipid peroxidation.*3 The beneficial effect is attributed to reduced lipoic acid, which reduces GSSG to GSH. | |||
| Effects of co-administration of alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione in a specific condition affecting the nervous system: It is suggested that alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione may help limit hepatic conditions. In a study of 42 patients experiencing a specific condition affecting the nervous system, the co-administration of alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione had no significant effects on serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, or γ-glutamyltranspeptidase levels, indicating that this combination may help support liver health without negatively impacting liver enzymes levels.*4 | |||
There is ongoing research on co-supplementation with glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid. Although some studies remain inconclusive, the beneficial effects of the two antioxidants are well-established.
Can I take glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid together? The short answer is yes. However, when taking them together, you should consider the efficacy and safety of the supplement formulations.
Tesseract Medical Research has developed glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid formulations using their advanced CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology. Because molecules such as glutathione are conventionally difficult to absorb, ssing proprietary technology to deliver these nutrients at the desired point in the intestinal tract achieves optimal absorption. In addition, the unprecedented absorption of active nutrients enables micro-dosing — using a lesser amount of active ingredients than previously required to achieve the desired therapeutic outcomes.
Tesseract combines the highest-quality nutrients with cutting-edge delivery systems to support health functions. We follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), including scientifically advanced analytical techniques and quality control systems, to ensure the efficacy and safety of our supplement formulations.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, bioavailability, and absorption, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your gastrointestinal health.*
Citations:
1Khanna S, et al. Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation: tissue glutathione homeostasis at rest and after exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md.:1985) vol. 86,4 (1999):1191-1196. doi:10.1152/jappl.1999.86.4.1191
2Gu L, et al. α-Lipoic acid protects against microcystin-LR induced hepatotoxicity through regeneration of glutathione via activation of Nrf2. Environmental Toxicology vol. 35,7 (2020):738-746. doi:10.1002/tox.22908
3Bast A, Haenen GR. Interplay between lipoic acid and glutathione in the protection against microsomal lipid peroxidation. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta vol. 963,3 (1988):558-561. doi:10.1016/0005-2760(88)90326-8
4Puri BK, et al. Co-administration of α-lipoic acid and glutathione is associated with no significant changes in serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase or γ-glutamyltranspeptidase levels during the treatment of neuroborreliosis with intravenous ceftriaxone. Journal of Complementary & Integrative Medicine vol. 12,3 (2015):227-230. doi:10.1515/jcim-2014-0058
Article Summary:
Have you tried the traditional Japanese breakfast of fermented soybeans called natto? Although the slimy texture might be unfamiliar to some, natto is widely considered to be a so-called “superfood” for benefiting the heart, gut, and brain. The beneficial effects of natto are derived from nattokinase — an enzyme produced by the bacteria Bacillus subtilis as boiled soybeans are fermented.
As a nutritional supplement, nattokinase displays several pharmacologic properties that can provide significant beneficial health effects.* This post highlights the health benefits of nattokinase, how it supports several functions in the body, and why you should include an advanced nattokinase supplement in your diet.
Natto is a rich source of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibers. Chemically, natto contains 18 amino acids, of which eight are essential amino acids. The fermentation of natto results in the production of several bioactive factors, including nattokinase, bacillopeptidase F, vitamin K2, and dipicolinic acid.
Nattokinase is a single polypeptide chain of 275 amino acids. Nattokinase is known for its pharmacologic properties that promote healthy cardiovascular, neurological, and gastrointestinal functions.* The beneficial effects of nattokinase include:
The pharmacologic properties of nattokinase contribute to the following health benefits.
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Health Benefits of Nattokinase |
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Heart health: Nattokinase has several beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, including:
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| Brain health: Nattokinase plays a potential role in the peripheral blood-to-brain axis, having been found to promote neurogenesis in animal models, which informs that it may help maintain normal cognitive functions.* The enzyme is also associated with maintaining normal inflammatory responses in brain cells.*8 | |
| Gut health: Limited evidence from animal studies on the effect of nattokinase on the gastrointestinal microbiota shows that consuming natto fermentation products can enhance the richness, diversity, and uniformity of gut microbiota.*9 | |
Various studies have established the overall safety of nattokinase as a nutritional supplement with little or no adverse health effects. The relative safety of nattokinase over other thrombolytic agents contributes to its preference as an supplement for promoting healthy blood circulation.* Although the health benefits of nattokinase are well-researched, its potential contraindications with prescription medications are unknown; therefore, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before including a nattokinase supplement in your diet.
Because the molecular size of nattokinase is too large for oral absorption through the gastrointestinal tract, it can undergo chemical oxidation and subsequent inactivation in the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, nattokinase absorption through the oral route is challenging. Fortunately, an advanced nattokinase supplement can resolve nattokinase’s absorption and bioavailability challenges to accomplish the targeted delivery of the enzyme.
NattoGuard is an innovative and advanced nattokinase formulation developed by Tesseract Medical Research that promotes your overall health and wellbeing. Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology ensures the optimal absorption and bioavailability of nattokinase, thus achieving its many health-promoting benefits.* CyLoc® technology surrounds each nattokinase molecule in its smart delivery system to protect them from being degraded during the transit through the stomach, and the accompanying DexKey® reactors release each molecule at the desired point in the intestinal tract to achieve maximum absorption.
All Tesseract nutritional supplements are made with the highest-quality nutrients and follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and industry standards. The cutting-edge delivery system and a well-designed quality control system make NattoGuard a superior nattokinase supplement for promoting your heart, brain, and gut health.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption, and bioavailability, and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support cardiovascular health.*
References
1Hsia C-H, et al. Nattokinase decreases plasma levels of fibrinogen, factor VII, and factor VIII in human subjects. Nutrition Research (New York, N.Y.) vol. 29,3 (2009):190-196. doi:10.1016/j.nutres.2009.01.009
2Fujita M, et al. Thrombolytic effect of nattokinase . . . . Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin vol. 18,10 (1995):1387-1391. doi:10.1248/bpb.18.1387
3,7Iwai K, et al. Antioxidative functions of natto, a kind of fermented soybeans: effect on LDL oxidation and lipid metabolism . . . . Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry vol. 50,12 (2002):3597-3601. doi:10.1021/jf0117199
4Okamoto A, et al. . . . [S]ubstances in fermented soybean, natto. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition (Dordrecht, Netherlands) vol. 47,1 (1995):39-47. doi:10.1007/BF01088165
5Suzuki Y, et al. Dietary supplementation of fermented soybean, natto, . . .” Life Sciences vol. 73,10 (2003):1289-1298. doi:10.1016/s0024-3205(03)00426-0
6Jang, J-Y, et al. Nattokinase improves blood flow . . . . Laboratory Animal Research vol. 29,4 (2013):221-225. doi:10.5625/lar.2013.29.4.221
8Ji H, et al. Mechanisms of nattokinase . . . . European Journal of Pharmacology vol. 745 (2014):144-151. doi:10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.10.024
Adverse cardiovascular health conditions account for leading causes of death worldwide. Unfortunately, limited alternative approaches are available to control and manage heart-related conditions. The effect of specific diets – such as the Mediterranean, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and plant-based diets – on the gut microbiome and heart health has led to extensive research on the cardioprotective benefits of certain compounds in food.
Natto, a traditional Japanese food product made from fermented whole soybeans, is associated with promoting cardiovascular health and is believed to contribute to the longevity of Japanese people. Nattokinase, the most active ingredient of natto, displays various cardioprotective effects and is emerging as a promising alternative in responding to adverse cardiovascular health conditions.* This post discusses the association between nattokinase and heart health and why you should consider adding an advanced nattokinase supplement to your diet. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
In Japan, natto, or fermented soybeans, is often served as a breakfast food with rice. It is a so-called “superfood” and has a distinct smell, texture, and nutty flavor. Nattokinase is produced by the bacterium Bacillus subtilis during the fermentation of soybeans. The traditional process of fermenting soybeans to make natto uses the bacterial strain as the starter. Nattokinase was first extracted from fermented soybeans in 1987.
Natto is also a rich source of vitamins, proteins, minerals, and dietary fibers. Recent research has established that nattokinase has several beneficial cardiovascular effects, including a strong fibrinolytic activity that helps maintain optimal clot formation.* Nattokinase can also help slow down the formation and growth of undesirable clotting (thrombolytic activity), thereby promoting heart health. Additionally, nattokinase has been found to have lipid-lowering and neuroprotective effects.
Nattokinase is a single polypeptide chain of 275 amino acids. The following table highlights the pharmacologic effects of nattokinase that contribute to its potential health benefits.
Pharmacologic Effects of Nattokinase |
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| It helps maintain optimal clotting (fibrinolytic effect).* |
Fibrin is an insoluble protein produced in response to bleeding and helps stop bleeding by forming blood clots. Although fibrin is critical to wound healing and repair, an excess of it poses a risk of forming blood clots that could adversely affect heart or brain functions. Nattokinase degrades fibrin directly, as well as indirectly by increasing the release of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)—an enzyme that converts plasminogen into its active form, plasmin, which breaks down blood clots.*1 Nattokinase also activates other fibrinolytic enzymes, such as pro-urokinase.* |
| It helps prevent unwanted blood clots from forming (antithrombotic effect).* |
Thrombosis is the forming of a blood clot (thrombus) inside a blood vessel that can obstruct the blood flow. In an animal study, the thrombolytic activity of nattokinase was found to be stronger than that of other thrombolytic agents, such as plasmin or elastase.*2 |
| It mitigates oxidative stress (antioxidant effect).* |
Nattokinase has been reported to exert beneficial cardiovascular effects by helping to3 maintain a healthy inflammatory response.* |
| It limits lipid peroxidation and enhances lipid metabolism (lipid-enhancing effects).* |
Nattokinase’s direct antioxidant effect inhibits the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), reduces lipid peroxidation, and enhances lipid metabolism.*4 |
| It exerts neuroprotective effects.* |
The neuroprotective effect of nattokinase is associated with its ability to relax vascular smooth muscle, protect endothelial cells through enhanced fibrinolytic activity, and facilitate thrombolysis.*5 |
The pharmacogenic effects of nattokinase promote a healthy cardiovascular system.* The following table highlights how nattokinase benefits heart health.*
|
Nattokinase and Heart Health |
|
|---|---|
| It helps maintain healthy blood pressure.* Angiotensin II, a hypertensive peptide hormone, causes the muscular walls of small arteries to constrict, which increases blood pressure. Nattokinase has been found to suppress angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) — a key enzyme responsible for the production of angiotensin II.*6 | |
| It helps maintain smooth and healthy arteries. Nattokinase’s thrombolytic activity is associated with helping to maintain smooth and healthy blood vessels.*7 | |
| It helps maintain healthy platelet activity.* Nattokinase exhibits beneficial activity in helping to maintain the optimal function of platelets in the blood.*8 | |
| It helps improve lipid metabolism. In a clinical study on the effect of nattokinase on individuals with an excess of fat or lipids in the blood, nattokinase helped maintain healthy lipid levels and lipid metabolism.*9 | |
Nattokinase supplements are widely used to enhance circulation.* The convenience of oral intake of nattokinase is a distinct advantage over thrombolytic agents that are injectable and might cause adverse side effects, such as bleeding.
Commercial nattokinase production optimizes fermentation conditions, including temperature, pH, and fermentation time, to maximize the yield of nattokinase produced by the bacteria. The ease of mass production of the enzyme makes it relatively inexpensive, making nattokinase an economically viable nutritional supplement.
Natto is a rich source of vitamin K2 (MK-7), an essential nutrient that inhibits calcium accumulation in the blood vessels. However, some commercial nattokinase supplements might not contain vitamin K2 when the enzyme is extracted from the natto. In a clinical study, the co-supplementation of nattokinase with vitamin K2 and aspirin exerted synergistic effects in enhancing the enzyme’s lipid-benefiting effects.*10 In a rabbit study, co-supplementation of nattokinase with red ginseng was found to benefit cardiovascular health.*11
Nattokinase has a proven safety profile and a long history of human consumption. Toxicology studies and several Good Laboratory Practice-compliant studies in rodents and humans have established the safety of the oral consumption of nattokinase.12
The collective data from various studies confirm nattokinase is safe for oral intake with minimal or no toxicologic concerns.
However, limited data exist on the potential drug interactions and contraindications of nattokinase. Because concurrent use of multiple drugs is common among individuals experiencing cardiovascular conditions, it is recommended to consult with your health-care provider before including a nattokinase supplement in your diet.
Nattokinase’s molecular size is too large for its oral absorption through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Therefore, it can be susceptible to chemical oxidation and subsequent inactivation in the GI tract. As a result, the targeted delivery of nattokinase through the oral route is challenging.
Various nano-delivery methods have been researched and developed to increase the stability and targeted delivery of nattokinase. Advanced formulations utilizing such delivery technologies can achieve the nattokinase’s health-promoting benefits.
Tesseract Medical Research has developed an innovative nattokinase formulation NattoGuard to support heart health.* The proprietary CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enhances nattokinase’s bioavailability by protecting it from degradation during transit through the stomach and ensuring its targeted delivery at the desired point in the intestinal tract. The resulting unprecedented absorption and optimal bioavailability make NattoGuard a health-promoting reality.*
The association between nattokinase and heart health is well-researched. Although nattokinase is considered safe for oral intake, its potential contraindications with prescription drugs, such as blood thinners, and resulting side effects are relatively unknown. Consult with a healthcare provider before taking a nattokinase supplement with any prescription medication.
A nattokinase supplement formulated for optimal absorption and bioavailability can achieve its cardioprotective benefits.* Always look for a supplement formulation developed through advanced production and purification technologies that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), including well-designed quality control. With Tesseract’s nutritional supplements, you can be assured of the highest-quality nutrients delivered through cutting-edge delivery systems.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption, and bioavailability, and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support cardiovascular health.*
References:
1Hsia C-H, et al. Nattokinase decreases plasma levels of fibrinogen, factor VII, and factor VIII in human subjects. Nutrition Research (New York, N.Y.) vol. 29,3 (2009):190-196. doi:10.1016/j.nutres.2009.01.009
2Fujita M, et al. Thrombolytic effect of nattokinase . . . . Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin vol. 18,10 (1995): 1387-1391. doi:10.1248/bpb.18.1387
3,4Iwai K, et al. Antioxidative functions of natto, a kind of fermented soybeans: effect on LDL oxidation and lipid metabolism in cholesterol-fed rats. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry vol. 50,12 (2002):3597-3601. doi:10.1021/jf0117199
5Ji H, et al. Mechanisms of nattokinase . . . . European Journal of Pharmacology vol. 745 (2014):144-151. doi:10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.10.024
6Okamoto A, et al. “. . . [S]ubstances in fermented soybean, natto. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition (Dordrecht, Netherlands) vol. 47,1 (1995):39-47. doi:10.1007/BF01088165
7Suzuki Y, et al. Dietary supplementation of fermented soybean, natto, . . . . Life Sciences vol. 73,10 (2003):1289-1298. doi:10.1016/s0024-3205(03)00426-0
8Jang J-Y, et al. Nattokinase improves blood flow . . . . Laboratory Animal Research vol. 29,4 (2013):221-225. doi:10.5625/lar.2013.29.4.221
9Ren NN, et al. Zhonghua yi xue za zhi vol. 97,26 (2017):2038-2042. doi:10.3760/cma.j.issn.0376-2491.2017.26.005
10Chen H, et al. “. . . [N]attokinase: A clinical study with 1,062 participants.” Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine vol. 9 964977. 22 Aug. 2022, doi:10.3389/fcvm.2022.964977
11Kang, Shin-Jyung, Yunsook Lim, Ae-Jung Kim. Korean red ginseng combined with nattokinase . . . .” Food Science and Biotechnology 23 (2014):283-287.
12L BJ, English JC. Toxicological assessment of nattokinase derived from Bacillus subtilis var. natto. Food and Chemical Toxicology: An international journal published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association vol. 88 (2016):87-99. doi:10.1016/j.fct.2015.12.025
