Tourettes DisorderTourettes Disorder is a brain disorder characterized by different types of tics. Some are facial or body tics, such as uncontrollable blinking or twitching. These are the most common symptoms. However, in some cases the sufferer experiences vocal tics such as various noises or sounds ranging from low moans to sharp barks. In extremely rare cases, the person can even utter uncontrolled obscenities. While many elements of Tourettes Disorder are beyond control, there is hopeful treatments available for those who have Tourettes. By employing some of these natural remedies, Tourettes (tics) can be greatly minimized if not almost completely eliminated. Homeopathic treatments such as specific amino acids, vitamins, and minerals can be very effective. Some of the ones to look for are antioxidants such as beta carotene, zinc, selenium, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C; Vitamin B complex capsules; lecithin granules; niacin; Grapeseed extract; Amino Acid Calcium-Magnesium tablets; Folic Acid; and Taurine. There are certain foods that should be avoided as they trigger and exacerbate tics. These are foods that contain tyramine and therefore obstruct monoamine oxidase (MAO). If the MAO is inhibited, the tyramine doesn’t break down and begins releasing its stores of norepinephrine. Tyramine also decreases the effectiveness of vitamin B6. Foods that contain tyramine include chocolate, soy sauce, aged cheese, raisins, cured meats, canned fish, and alcoholic beverages. You should also cut artificial sweeteners out of your diet as they tend to block healthy amino acids. Caffeine and sugary foods are best eliminated altogether. Decongestants and antihistamines (such as Sudafed) as well as certain dyes (for example, red dye #40) can cause adverse reactions in Tourette’s patients. These should be avoided or completely eliminated. In addition to using various vitamin and mineral supplements, making necessary changes to your diet, and cutting out certain harmful chemicals, there are other therapies available for the mind and body. These treatments can help Tourettes Disorder sufferers to relax and manage their tics, as well as help them focus their concentration and become less obsessive. Basically, it gives them a sense of control over a disorder that is characterized by a lack of control. Some of these mind/body therapies include massage, aromatherapy, prayer, meditation, reflexology, sound/music therapy, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, acupuncture or acupressure, cranial/sacral therapy, biofeedback, and postural therapies. The latter consists of various exercises (such as Tai Chi) that are low-intensity but help aid concentration as well as relax the individual. This is a lot of information to process all at once and it may not all work for you. Every individual case is different and some things work for others that may not affect you at all. The key is just to try different things until you find the right treatment plan for you. People with Tourette’s Disorder are often very self-conscious of their disorder and its various manifestations. So, why suffer needlessly when there are natural treatment methods available for you to use? Just be patient as you work through the process. Cures don’t happen overnight, but you should find the amount of tics reducing each day as you continue on your treatment path.
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