Plasmalogens

What are these and why haven't I heard about them?!

What is the intervention?

• Early research on Plasmalogens and autism suggests that low levels of these special lipids are associated with cognitive and behavioral issues. There have been many studies that indicate that plasmalogens have key roles in brain health and a deficit can have significant impact in the development of brain related conditions.

Why have I never heard about plasmalogens? What do they do?

• Plasmalogens were identified about 100 years ago -however their function was not understood! There has been a lot of sound research published since the 1960's but has not been included in human clinical research. Plasmalogens are a unique form of fat or phospholipid found in cell membranes and lipid-rich structures like myelin, red blood cells, and lipoproteins. Unlike typical phospholipids, plasmalogens contain distinctive bond structures. These give plasmalogen molecules their unique abilities. A key role in nerve tissue is that they form and rebuild the 'insulation' around nerve axons. This myelin cover is responsible for fast and efficient communication in the body and the brain. Low plasmalogen levels are found with problems of cognition and types of movement disorders.

The plasmalogen role in autism is not a new concept.

Dr. Dayan Goodenowe, PhD has been researching and publishing for over 25 years on key concepts in this area.

Membranes are the workbenches of human biochemistry

• Complex and vital work occurs at membranes and organelles within the cells. Plasmalogens are important in EVERY CELL in our body. These mighty molecules are the keys to safe and efficient energy production in our mitochondria: from energy for daily living to fighting off illness, facilitating and coordinating cell communication and coordination. With the right precursors and nutrition, plasmalogens are made in the brain and body.

• Inflammation is implicated in all acute and chronic conditions. Plasmalogens are our ultimate “firefighter,” putting out the flames of inflammation wherever it occurs in the body…. providing they are in adequately available quantities.

  With the specialized plasmalogens precursor molecules that Dr Goodenowe has created, we can assemble new molecules once our body has the right building blocks.

  But we already supplement with healthy omega fats

  Many families supplement their diet with omega essential fatty acids. Plasmalogens are found in higher levels in certain foods but are unable to survive our normal digestive processes. Dr Goodenowe has developed and patented an organic precursor molecule that can pass through the digestive tract and be processed at the site where the plasmalogens are needed. Other nutritional deficits and gut health are addressed if the comprehensive evaluation reveals a need.

  How will this impact the program that we currently have in place?

  It is a team effort! This is not designed to replace your current treatment of care. We will advise and work with your physician and therapists on how and why this targeted therapy plan can augment care for your loved ones with autism.

  Objective biochemical testing, along with caregivers' current metrics of success, can confirm in a relatively short timespan that changes that are seen and perceived…. are real.