3dT4E4Rnm

ing the recycling and regeneration of BH4. Chronic bacterial infection (which
can lead to aluminum retention) weakens the third leg of the stool, because aluminum
inhibits a key enzyme that helps to synthesize BH4. On this program,
you will ultimately address all three legs of the BH4 stool by supporting the body
to address chronic bacteria/aluminum, supporting the MTHFR A1298C mutation,
and addressing CBS/ammonia issues.
Other Interfaces that Impact BH4
Other mutations can also improve (or worsen) our BH4 stool’s sturdiness. While
BH4 helps in the formation of neurotransmitters, other factors contribute to
neurotransmitter breakdown. Bacterial infections trigger a more rapid breakdown
of tryptophan (needed for serotonin). Low levels of BH4 have been associated
with hypertension and arteriosclerosis, as well as with more severe parasitic
infections. Parasitic infections also deplete B12 levels, impacting methylation
cycle function.
Lack of BH4 may result in mast cell degranulation and lead to higher histamine
levels, which can produce symptoms such as red ears and other hypersensitivity
reactions. Serotonin synthesis as well as ammonia detoxification also require
BH4. Elevated ammonia levels can cause flapping and other over-stimulatory
behaviors.
Factors that lead to more ammonia, such as high protein diets, generate more
ammonia that needs to be detoxified. Each molecule of ammonia requires two
molecules of BH4 for ideal detoxification. Excess ammonia in the gut may alter
the pH and aggravate imbalances in microbial flora. It’s obvious how these factors
interact to impact ammonia detoxification as well as optimal BH4 levels for
neurotransmitter synthesis. Keeping the ammonia levels under control is of paramount
importance for overall health and wellness, especially for those with an
MTHFR A1298C mutation, as any excess ammonia generated can drain stores
of BH4. This can affect serotonin levels and to a certain extent cause fluctuations
in dopamine (which translates into mood swings). Helping to restore adequate
levels of BH4 should also aid in serotonin synthesis, maintaining dopamine levels
as well as ammonia detoxification in a more stable manner.
Test Results Indicating Decreased BH4
• High hippuric
• Increased 8 hydroxy 2 deoxy guanosine (lack of SAMe or high ammonia
can also cause increased 8 hydroxy 2 deoxy guanosine)
• Elevated phenylalanine, phenyl lactate, phenyl acetate, and/or phenylethylamine
136 Autism: Pathways to Recovery