Case Report: Camden’s Journey to Improved Focus and Emotional Well-Being

Patient Overview

Camden’s parents sought out an UltraWellness Center nutritionist for a holistic approach to address their concerns about Camden’s focus and attention. His teachers described him as quiet at school and struggled to keep up with work, leading to speculation of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. His parents wanted to explore potential nutrient deficiencies and genetic predispositions before considering a psychological evaluation or medication. His parents have also noted emotional outbursts and nervous tics, such as head nodding. Camden’s parents noted that, while there have not been any formal diagnoses, they speculate attention disorders on both side’s of the family. 

Prior to coming to the UltraWellness Center, Camden’s family prioritized organic foods, consuming approximately 80% organic produce, focusing on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Camden is generally not a picky eater and while he does like sweets, his intake is limited. His parents had not tried an elimination diet but were diligent in tracking Camden’s behavior, food intake, screen time, and multivitamin use but have been unable to identify clear patterns. Camden ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cereal, and yogurt most often and only ate vegetables at dinner time. 

Camden was having regular bowel movements without any digestive complaints. 

Initial Dietary Recommendations 

While waiting for test results, we reviewed the importance of blood sugar regulation on energy, mood, and the ability to focus. Since his family already did a great job with selecting predominately whole grains, focus was put on eating balanced meals with increased vegetable intake, especially earlier in the day. 

Recommended Diagnostic Testing and Results

Based on his history, I recommended the following tests be completed and provided the results below:

1.  Organic Acids test: This test looks for nutritional deficiencies and microbial imbalances. Results showed low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, the need for antioxidants to combat oxidative stress, as well as bacterial and yeast overgrowth, all of which could be affecting Camden’s focus and mood regulation. The presence of bacterial overgrowth as a potential contributing factor to mood and attention issues highlights the relationship between the gut and the brain, otherwise referred to as the ‘gut-brain axis’.
2. 3×4 DNA testing: Camden’s genetic profile suggested predispositions affecting neurotransmitter regulation, particularly elevated dopamine levels due to variations in the COMT and MAOA enzymes. These enzymes break down neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and Camden’s variations lead to slower breakdown, resulting in higher levels. Additionally, his slow MAOA variant can hinder histamine breakdown, which can accumulate from certain foods. He also has a variation in the GABRA2 gene which has been linked to impulsivity-related behavior in adolescence. Interestingly, while lower dopamine levels are often linked to ADHD, Camden’s genetics suggest the opposite may be true. Methylation support was also indicated on his genetic results due to variations affecting B-vitamin conversion and methylation is important for various aspects in the body. 
3. Cyrex food sensitivity testing: This checks for gluten sensitivity and foods known to cross-react to gluten such as dairy, yeast, and gluten-free grains. Camden’s results showed a moderate sensitivity to dairy products.

Treatment Plan

To address Camden’s needs holistically, we designed a comprehensive treatment plan that focused on nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle adjustments.

1. 1. Dietary Recommendations:
      • Balancing Meals and Increased Vegetable Intake: As reviewed during the initial consult to provide him with antioxidants to combat oxidative stress.
      • Limit Dairy: Based on food sensitivity results, reducing dairy to help decrease inflammation which can impact mood and behavior.
      • Trial of a Low Histamine Diet: Given his slow MAOA genetic results, this diet may help manage his mood and emotional responses. 
   2. Supplementation:
      • Multivitamin: Switched to a high-quality multivitamin with methylated B-vitamins to support methylation. 
      • Fish Oil: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for brain health, attention, and mood support.
      • Magnesium: Known for its calming properties, this can help manage anxiety and enhance focus.
      • GABA with L-Theanine: This combination can support relaxation and emotional regulation which is particularly helpful for those with the GABRA2 genetic variant.
      • Anti-microbials: A specific herbal blend including oregano oil, black walnut, garlic, and grape seed extract to address bacterial overgrowth and support gut health.
      • Prebiotics and Probiotics: Following the completion of anti-microbials to help restore a healthy gut microbiome.
   3. Behavioral Strategies:
      • Mindfulness Practices and Relaxation: Introducing simple mindfulness or breathing exercises can help Camden manage his emotional responses and improve focus.

• Self-care: Encouraging daily movement and a consistent sleep schedule, as circadian rhythm disruption can impact MAOA activity.

Outcomes and Continued Monitoring and Adjusting

At the follow-up appointment, Camden’s parents were thrilled with his progress. He had significantly reduced his dairy intake but hadn’t yet started the low histamine diet, opting to wait until summer for easier monitoring. Yet, even just with less dairy and the addition of his supplements, Camden’s tics were nearly gone and his mood regulation was much better. His energy improved with the transition to the new multivitamin as well as his increased vegetable intake. Understanding his genetic predispositions gave Camden’s parents hope that he could thrive in school without the need for medication.

Conclusion

Camden’s case illustrates the importance of a comprehensive, integrative approach in addressing attention and emotional regulation issues which so many children are currently struggling with daily. By focusing on nutrition, supplementation, and behavioral strategies, Camden  was able to thrive at home, school, and we saw an improvement in his overall well-being. Regular follow-ups will allow us to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. This case exemplifies the potential of functional medicine to create personalized solutions for complex health challenges in children.