Author: Dr. Vikram Chauhan

May 25, 2023

Fragile X Syndrome (Martin-Bell syndrome)-Treatment in Ayurveda

Abstract

Genetic disorders are the disorders that occur due to changes or mutation in the genes. These mutations occur at the time of conception. There are many disorders that fall in the category of genetic disorders. Further in the scenario comes the developmental disorders that may result due to poor nutrition intake by mother lead to hampered development of the bodily organs. Hence when such an underdeveloped organ’s child is born then some unwanted and unavoidable things happen that affect the life standard of that person drastically. In other words, the person becomes dependent on others. These changes can alter the life from mild to severe depending on the degree of development error. In the text below, we are going to discuss one such condition namely Fragile X Syndrome. Let’s get started !!

Fragile X Syndrome, (Martin-Bell syndrome)

Introduction

Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic disorder that results in a number of developmental problems including learning incapacities, cognitive impairment and mental debilitation. Typically, males are more seriously affected by this condition than females. The condition is named as Escalante syndrome. Fragile X Syndrome causes a lot of symptoms other than the neurological ones. The face features are also layered than the normal one. The Fragile X Syndrome occurs in approximately 1 in 4000 males and 1 in 8000 females. In Ayurveda, the condition can be correlated with beej dushti by the vitiated vata dosha. We will look deep into the Ayurvedic aspect of the same. For now let’s have a look at the causes, signs, symptoms, investigations and management of Fragile X Syndrome !!

Causes of Fragile X Syndrome

Mutations in the FMR1 gene cause fragile X syndrome. This FMR1 gene gives directions to making a protein called FMRP. Thus protein manages the production of different proteins and assumes a part in the development of synapses which are specific associations between nerve cells. Neural connections or synapses are basic for relaying impulses.

The DNA segment, called as CGG triplet repeat. Generally this segment is repeated from five to forty times but in Fragile X Syndrome this is repeated more than two hundred times. This abnormal expansion of the CGG segment silences the FMR1 gene that hampers the production of FMRP. Shortage of the protein results in various abnormal functioning of the nervous system and signs and symptoms of fragile X syndrome appear.

Signs and symptoms

Younger ones do not show any physical signs or symptoms of fragile X syndrome. The physical features do not appear until puberty.

Physical appearance

  • Long face
  • High arched palate
  • Flat feet
  • Hyperextensible finger joints
  • Hyperextensible thumbs
  • Soft skin
  • Hypotonia
  • Large and protruding ears
  • Post Pubescent macroorchidism

Intellectuality

Intelligent quotient can vary from normal to severely disabled with an average 40 IQ in males with total silencing of the FMR1 gene. Females who are not affected much as compared to males have generally normal levels of IQ. The main problems that a person with fragile X syndrome faces short term memory, visual memory, mathematics, visual spatial relationships and executive function.

Autism

In many cases, Fragile X Syndrome coexists with autism and it is one of the suspected genetic causes of autism.

Genetic mouse models of fragile X syndrome have also presented to behaviour like autism.

Social interaction

Fragile X Syndrome is characterised by poor eye contact, prolonged time to interact with people, difficult and prolonged challenges forming peer relationships, gaze aversion and social anxiety. Excessive shyness, panic attacks.

Mental health

Majority of males and thirty percent females suffering from Fragile X Syndrome have Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children suffering with fragile X syndrome are hyperactive, have a very short attention span, and are hypersensitive to tactile, auditory, olfactory and visual stimuli. Preservation is one of the common behavioural and communicative symptoms of fragile X syndrome. Overdoing or repeatedly doing an activity.
Persons with fragile X syndrome experience mood disorders, anxiety issues, and dementia.

Ophthalmologic symptoms

Strabismus is one of the ophthalmological manifestations of fragile X syndrome. Amblyopia and refractive errors are common is fragile X syndrome.

Neurological symptoms

Seizures, tremors and loss of coordination is seen in the persons suffering with Fragile X Syndrome.

Fertility and working memory

Fertility and working memory in persons with fragile X syndrome is severely hampered.

Investigations

    • Polymerase chain reactions (PCR)
    • Southern blot
    • Prenatal testing with chorionic villus

sampling or amniocentesis appears to be reliable.

Management

  • Symptomatic management is done with much use of stimulants that manages impulsivity, attentional problems and hyperactivity.
  • Underlying anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive behaviours and mood disorders are managed with antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
  • To manage aggression, aberrant and self injurious behaviours are managed by antipsychotics.
  • Seizures and mood swings are managed by anticonvulsants.

Ayurvedic Aspect of Fragile X Syndrome and its Management

Ayurveda is a traditional medicinal system of India. Ayurveda has been serving mankind since ages and the principles of Ayurveda are still valid till date. Ayurveda is based on the three doshas (energies) vata, pitta and kapha. Theses within the normal range pronounced as health wheres any imbalance is regarded as a state of a disease. Furthermore Ayurveda focuses on the way of life or type of lifestyle. As Ayurveda considers the sedentary lifestyle a root cause of various diseases. Ayurveda has mentioned about the anuvanshik roga (genetic disorders).

In the case of Fragile X Syndrome, the Ayurvedic concept of beej dushti comes out to be the perfect correlation. When the shonit (ovum) and shukra (sperm) get vitiated by any or two or all three dosha at the time of fertilisation, then it gives rise to the establishment of the dusht beej that in later life results in the diseased or abnormal child. This is the best correlation that can be well established with Fragile X Syndrome.

As the basic structure of a person or the beej dushti cannot be reversed. Therefore, the management of Fragile x Syndrome becomes completely symptomatic. The symptoms of the condition can be well managed with the Ayurvedic medicines with the dosha pacification properties. Generally the symptoms that appear in fragile X syndrome are due to vata imbalance. The management thus depends on balancing the vata dosha and other associated dosha involvement.

Certain medications such as vat vidhwansan ras, vrihat vatchintamani ras, vat gajankush ras, haridra khand, ras sindoor, brahmi vati, shankhpushpi powder, yashthimadhu ghan vati, ashwagandharishta, kumar kalyan ras etc are helpful in managing fragile X syndrome up to a desired level.

Herbal Remedies by Planet Ayurveda for Fragile X Syndrome

Planet Ayurveda is an eminent ISO 9001:2015, USA-FDA, GMP certified ayurvedic company. Planet Ayurveda looks forward to spreading the wisdom of Ayurveda on the Planet Earth. Planet Ayurveda formulates formulations that are available in various forms such as tablets (vati), capsules, jams (avleha/prash), powders (churna), syrups (asavarishta/ark/saar). The products of Planet Ayurveda are pure and do not contain the harmful chemicals. Products are not mixed with additives and flavour enhancers. Planet Ayurveda’s products are halal certified and gluten free. Planet Ayurveda extends its products for the management of Fragile X syndrome.

Following are the products of Planet Ayurveda that are helpful in managing Fragile X Syndrome

  1. Ashwagandhadi Ghrit
  2. Kumar Kalyan Ras
  3. Telomere Boostup
  4. Brahmi Vati Gold
  5. Vat Gajankush Ras
  6. Curcumin 95% Capsules

Herbal Remedies for Fragile X SyndromeHerbal Remedies for Fragile X Syndrome

Product description

1. ASHWAGANDHADI GHRIT

Ashwagandhadi Ghrit is one of the classical ayurvedic formulations used to manage a number of conditions. Ashwagandhadi Ghrit is composed of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), cow’s ghee (clarified butter) and cow milk. Ashwagandha is regarded as rasayana. Therefore, Ashwagandha helps in a variety of conditions from general debility to chronic conditions. Ashwagandha pacifies the vata dosha and thus improves functioning of the neurological disorders. Ashwagandhadi Ghrit manages symptoms of Fragile X Syndrome very well with its antiepileptic, antipsychotic, anticonvulsant and antidepressant activities.

Dosage: Half tsp twice daily

2. KUMAR KALYAN RAS

Kumar Kalyan Ras is a classical herbomineral formulation that is used in a very large variety of disorders. Kumar Kalyan Ras is made up of kumari rasa (Aloe vera juice), ras sindoor (purified mercury), mukta bhasma (pearl calx), swarna bhasma (gold calx), abhrak bhasma (mica calx) and various others. Kumar Kalyan Ras works as an elixir in paediatric disorders. It helps in various disorders of children and multiplies the potency of the other medicines with which it is taken. Kumar Kalyan Ras pacifies the pitta dosha which helps in coping up with impulsivity, hyperactivity and aggression of Fragile X Syndrome.

Dosage: One tablet twice daily

3. TELOMERE BOOSTUP

Telomere Boostup is a patent product of Planet Ayurveda. Telomere Boostup is filled with the energy providing an immunity building properties of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), grapeseed (Vitis vinifera), amla (Emblica officinalis), moringa (Commiphora mukul) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia). All these herbs boost immunity and aid proper spermatogenesis and oogenesis and prevent further passing on the affected genes to the offspring. Furthermore, it helps in overall mental and physical soundness of a person with Fragile X Syndrome.

Dosage: One capsule twice daily.

4. BRAHMI VATI GOLD

Brahmi Vati Gold is a classical herbomineral formulation that is used for a wide variety of psychological, psychiatric and neurological disorders. Brahmi vati is composed of different herbs such as brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), vacha (Acorus calamus), swarna bhasma (calx of gold) etc. The ingredients of the formulation are very effective in the management of various vata and pitta disorders. As depression, suicidal thoughts, self harm, mania, aggression, tremors, seizures etc are due to vata and pitta related, Brahmi vati Gold is perfect remedy to manage all these very well. Therefore, Brahmi Vati Gold is one of the finest remedies for Fragile X Syndrome.

Dosage: One tablet once daily.

5. VAT GAJANKUSH RAS

Vat Gajankush Ras is a classical herbomineral formulation that is extensively used in vat disorders and vata and kapha symptoms. Vat Gajankush Ras is made up of shudha parada (purified mercury), loha bhasma (Calx of Iron), makshik bhasma (Calx of iron pyrite and copper), shudha gandhak (purified sulphur), black pepper (Piper nigrum), long pepper (Piper longum), shunthi (Zingiber officinale) and various other herbs and minerals. Vat Gajankush Ras is a well known remedy for vata disorders. Psychosis and depression are due to vata vitiation and the condition is thus required to be managed by vat pacification and there is no better remedy than Vat Gajankush Ras.

Dosage: One tablet twice daily

6. CURCUMIN 95% CAPSULES

Curcumin 95% capsules are a patent product of Planet Ayurveda. Curcumin 95% capsules contain pure herbal extract of haridra (Curcuma longa). Turmeric being a vata dosha balancer helps in the healthy functioning of the nervous system. Haridra is used to calm the mind and results in well being of mental health. As it balances the vata dosha, it is of great use in the management of mental illnesses like depression and anxiety lead by Fragile X Syndrome.
Dosage: One capsule twice a day.

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4030 (India), +91-172-521-4030 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 9915-593-604

Conclusion

Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic disorder that makes a person (child) physically abnormal and mentally disabled. This is a threatening condition that occurs due to over repetition of segment CGG that silences the FMR1 gene and the condition progresses and hampers the intellectuality of a person. Amid the intellectual abnormality the physical appearance of the affected person is also deranged as the silencing of FMR1 gene results in the hampering of the protein FMRP and other proteins as well. Hence the condition is disabling.

The management of the condition is generally symptomatic and the modern medicines are quite toxic and hampers the functioning of other healthy organs and the condition can be seriously deteriorated. Whereas the Ayurvedic medicines check the intellectuality levels and uplift it. And the prevent the tremors and epilepsy attacks with vata balancing properties and with their pitta balancing properties they effectively mangoes the aggression and self harm or suicidal thoughts without any side effects on the body. Hence the herbal or Ayurvedic management of Fragile X Syndrome seems positive and devoid of any side effects.

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May 24, 2023

Low Fodmap Diet For Treatment Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Abstract

The diet is the most important in the health of a person, intake of a healthy diet prevents dangerous conditions and diseases such as malnutrition etc. In today’s world the majority of people are consuming food rich in salts, energy, fats, free sugars and subsequently low consumption vegetables, fibres and fruits etc. To manage any type of the disease, food is the first medicine, a healthy diet with exercise prevents the risk of many diseases like: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart diseases, stroke and diabetes etc. The high FODMAP diet results in bloating, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, acidity and severe pain.

Let’s discuss in detail about the low FODMAP diet.

Low FODMAP Diet

Introduction

The word FODMAP stands for: Fermentable Oligosaccharides Disaccharides Monosaccharides And Polyols. The meaning of low FODMAP is, the reduction of some kind of carbohydrates which are hard for gut to digest. This diet is specially prescribed to the people, who have functional gastrointestinal diseases such as: IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and some of the food triggers disease. By avoiding usage of such an irritating carbohydrates, provide some time to mucus membrane of the gut to heal, so consuming low FODMAP diet is very helpful in relieving the symptoms. In Ayurveda, food is what makes us both healthy and unhealthy and our Acharaya’s has specially mentioned about: which food we have to take in which Ritucharya (Seasons). So if we have to stay healthy, it becomes very important to follow a diet which is simple, healthy and provide strength to body. In problems like Irritable bowel syndrome, there is a basic prevention of that food which worsens the condition.

What are FODMAPs?

Fermentable

The foods which gut the bacteria feed on, convert them into gases by a chemical process called fermentation.

Oligosaccharides

These are the soluble plant fibres called prebiotics, which feed the beneficial bacteria present in your gut eg, onion, many wheat products, beans, garlic and lentils etc.

Disaccharides

This group of sugar mainly includes lactose, sugar in dairy products and human milk. The lactose intolerance is very common food intolerances world wide

Monosaccharides

This group includes the fruit sugar (fructose sugar)

Polyols

his group mainly includes the artificial sweeteners also called as sugar alcohols, present naturally in some fruits.

Role of FODMAP in Aigestion

The FODMAPs are ones which are considered to be short chain carbs, generally the sugars in the food are broken down into a single molecule from a complex chain to be absorbed by the intestine very easily. But in FODMAPs, the breaking down does not happen, because they are already short chains, so it becomes very difficult for the intestines to digest specially in patients present with IBS which results in abdominal discomfort, indigestion, diarrhoea and severe pain etc diarrhoea.

Foods high in FODMAPs Are

  • Dry fruits ie. cashew nuts, walnuts and peanuts etc. will add to problems.
  • Dairy products which should not be taken are: butter, cheese, high fat milk and tea etc.
  • The oils which increase the problem of IBS are: coconut oil, palm oil.
  • The pulses ie. chickpeas, black gram and kidney beans contain high FODMAP.
  • Red chillies should not be taken.
  • Vegetables like: garlic, ladyfinger, onion and tomato should not be consumed.
  • Drinks such as: sweetened drinks, canned soups, alcohol and carbonated drinks are not good for IBS patients.
  • Citrus fruits ie. canned fruits, peaches, strawberries and pineapple should not be consumed.

Benefits of Low FODMAP Diet

The Low FODMAP diet is very beneficial for people who are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and from small intestine bacterial overgrowth or other digestion issues. The Low FODMAP diet contain three phases

  • Elimination Phase: In this phase there is a complete avoidance of the food, rich in FODMAP (mainly dairy products, fruits etc.)
  • Reintroduction Phase: This is the second phase of low FODMAP diet and also called the challenge phase.
  • Maintenance phase: This is the last phase of FODMAP and in this phase the patient eliminates the food which he/she is sensitive to and consumes the food which suits the patient.

Foods Low in FODMAP Are

  • The spices like: fennel,cumin and coriander are good for the stomach.
  • Dairy products which can be taken are cow ghee and dahi only.
  • Pulses which can be taken are: washed dals and green grams.
  • Fruits that can be taken by Irritable Bowel Syndrome patients include apple, banana, apricot, watermelon, pomegranate (without seeds), kiwi, plum, guava.
  • Cereals include wheat, rice, pearl millet, amaranth, oats, quinoa and brown rice can be consumed.
  • Vegetables which can be taken are: pumpkin, red onion, ginger, celery, cucumber, beetroot and carrot.
  • Drinks like coconut water, sugarcane juices, green juices, home made juice, aloe vera juice can be enjoyed.
  • Oils which can be consumed are: soybean oil, olive oil, mustard oil and cow ghee.

How Does the Low FODMAP Diet Work?

Low FODMAP is a Three-Step Elimination Diet

  • Firstly you stop eating certain foods ( high FODMAP food)
  • Then you slowly reintroduce them to see which ones are troublesome.
  • Once you identify the foods which cause the symptoms then avoid or limit them.

Herbal Remedies for IBS By Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a US-FDA registered, GMP certified and ISO 9001:2015 certified company. All the products are formulated under MD Ayurveda experts, containing no preservatives, chemicals, colours, dyes and have no side effects. The formulations are in the form of liquids (asav, arishta, syrup and saar), vatis (tablets), churan (powder) and jams etc. Planet Ayurveda produces the IBS- care pack for irritable bowel syndrome, these herbal formulations are very effective in this condition and also boost the immune system.

IBS Care Pack

  1. Sanjivani Vati
  2. Digestion Support
  3. Kutajghan Vati
  4. Pitta Balance


IBS Care PackIBS Care Pack

Product Description

Sanjivani Vati

Sanjivani vati maintains a healthy body temperature and also supports the health of abdominal organs. The ingredients mainly involved are: Vidanga (Embelia ribes), Pippali (Piper longum),Haritaki (Terminalia chebula),Amlaki (Emblica officinalis) and Vacha (Acorus calamus) etc. All the ingredients of this formulation balances the digestive issues, enhances the digestive fire and also enhances the absorption of the food which is very important to manage the IBS.

Dosage: 1-2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water after the meals.

Digestion Support

This product is very useful to maintain the healthy digestive system and maintain the condition of IBS. Ingredients involved in this formulation are : Sounf ( Foeniculum vulgare), Pippali (Piper longum),Jeerak (Cuminum cyminum), Dhania ( Coriander sativum) and Bahera (Terminalia billerica) etc. This formulation pacifies the tridosha (Vata, Pitta and Kapha). The herbs are effective to digest the complex sugars and are very useful in the management of Irritable bowel syndrome.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily, with plain water after the meals.

Kutajghan Vati

The Kutajghan vati pacifies the Pitta dosha and controls the excessive motions in IBS. The ingredient involved in this formulation is : Kutaj (Holarrhena antidysenterica). It contains properties like: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, diuretic, immunomodulator and anti- helminthic etc. According to the classical text Kutaj is referred to as udarshoolhar (abdominal pain) and atisar (diarrhoea). This is also indicated in many intestinal disorders like: IBS and Ulcerative colitis etc. So this herbal formulation is very important in the management of Irritable bowel syndrome.

Dosage: 1-2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water after the meals.

Pitta Balance

Pitta balance maintains the healthy digestion and the ingredients are : Kaharawa Pishti ( Natural calcium compound), Mukta Pishti (Natural calcium compound from pearls), Akik Pishti ( Natural calcium compound) and extract of Giloy Satva ( Tinospora cordifolia) etc. As its name suggests Pitta balance, which means it pacifies the aggravated Pitta dosha. In IBS there is irritation of intestinal mucus membrane which clearly defines the imbalance of Pitta dosha. Pitta balance provides a soothing and cooling effect to the intestines and is also useful in healing.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after the meals.

Conclusion

According to our Acharyas, food is the first medicine, if we consume healthy food and do exercises our body will always remain healthy. Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder which mainly affects the stomach, intestines and gastrointestinal tract which includes the symptoms of pitta aggravation such as : bloating, diarrhoea, hyperacidity and constipation. In this article we have discussed that in IBS the low FODMAP diet is necessary for absorption of nutrients and digest easily without any hindrance. And the high FODMAP diet results in pain and discomfort. In Ayurveda IBS is related with “Sangrahani”, in which the agni (ie. digestive fire) of a person is vitiated which arises from the aggravation of Pitta dosha leads to intestinal mucosal irritation and other symptoms. So, to manage the condition of Irritable bowel syndrome, Planet Ayurveda offers the IBS care pack which is very effective.

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