Journal of Childhood & Developmental Disorders

Nutrigenomic-Based Coenzyme and Cofactor Monotherapy for Children with ADHD

The most encountered neurodevelopmental condition in childhood is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), affecting roughly one in nine children. ADHD is highly familial, and significant genetic underpinnings involve a cluster of common Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) that affect the metabolism, transport, or absorption of vitamin coenzymes and mineral cofactors. These coenzymes and cofactors are essential for all neuronal methylation pathways and cellular homeostasis, yet the combination of SNPs and their impact on ADHD severity and symptoms are unique to each patient. The interplay between genetics, environmental stressors, and nutritional factors actuate the biochemical causes of ADHD. Understanding and addressing these interactions encompasses the true definition of nutrigenomic treatment. Unlike stimulant therapy, which may resolve symptoms temporarily, nutrigenomic therapy addresses ADHD at its genetic, biochemical, and nutritional causes. The genetic variants that lead to inadequate nutrient absorption, transport, and metabolism cannot be corrected by diet alone. This is only achieved by providing the CNS methylation pathways with the pre-metabolized B vitamin coenzymes, mineral cofactors, and phospholipid omega 3s that, to varying degrees, may be chronically suboptimal in the CNS of the ADHD patient. This study reports the results of an open-label trial evaluating coenzyme/cofactor monotherapy in pediatric ADHD. The two preparations used were gel cap or gummy forms. We utilized the brand “EnLyte,” as both forms contained identical formulations of all essential B vitamin coenzymes, mineral cofactors, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids, required by the CNS for optimal methylation, monoamine production, membrane integrity, synaptic transmission, and antioxidant protection. All 38 study completers (ages ranged from 2 to 13) responded well to coenzyme/cofactor therapy, with a mean reduction in the Conner’s’ Parent Rating Scale from 54.7 to 29.6 after 90 days of therapy. There were no discontinuations due to side effects. Further, there were no “non responders” in the sample, as each patient demonstrated some degree of benefit, even when compliance was less than 100%. These results suggest that coenzyme/cofactor therapy is a well-tolerated nutrigenomic strategy for pediatric ADHD, and larger placebo-controlled trials are warranted.

Author(s): Jaimee Arroyo1, Jordan Miller1, Kayla Sangrey1,Zeke Nadeau1, Moriah Olson1, Esther Bargatze1, Luciana Mu�±oz1, Emily Kay2, Andrew Farah2

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