intestinal disruption and lack of absorption

Gastrointestinal tract disruption appear to deprive the brain of essential nutrients for key metabolic pathways. Gastrointestinal tract disruptions and psychiatric disorders show remarkably high co-morbidity.²⁹ For example, most studies that have investigated the
co-morbidity of irritable bowel syndrome and psychiatric disorders show prevalence of psychiatric disorders in irritable bowel syndrome patients to be 90% or greater.³⁰

higher, genetically-based micronutrient requirements

Research is uncovering major genetic risk factors in psychiatric illness.³¹ Up to one-third of gene mutations result in decreased enzyme binding affinity for corresponding coenzymes, including vitamins and minerals.³² As a result, individuals with certain genotypes may have significantly higher requirements for essential micronutrients in key mood-related brain pathways.^{32 33 44}

low micronutrient intake exacerbates the problem

Low micronutrient intake may contribute to psychiatric illness.^{34 35 36} Intake of many micronutrients is inadequate in the United States, as shown in Figure 2. RDA levels are deemed to be “sufficient to meet the dietary requirements of nearly all (97 to 98 percent) of healthy individuals”, but do not ensure mental health for at-risk sub-populations:¹³ “intake at the level of the RDA or AI would not necessarily be expected to replete individuals previously undernourished, nor would it be adequate for disease states marked by increased requirements.”³⁷

clinical trials

mechanism of nutrient action

nutrient-dependent brain functions

references