Using this information, it may be possible to build up a low glutamate sensitive diet for the long term. Beware, as soy is incorporated into many products as a cheap protein filler. MSG is often found in cheaper meat products. Diets aren't just for weight loss. Autism Res. The study is investigating if following the low glutamate diet for 1 month, as compared to care as usual, can improve seizure frequency, severity, and duration; cognitive functioning; and/or quality of life in children with epilepsy. 3. Fermented foods Fermented foods of any kind contain glutamates and glutamines. This trial is evaluating whether Low Glutamate diet will improve 3 primary outcomes and 3 secondary outcomes in patients with Aura. Also mushrooms, peas and broccoli can come back into the diet, but be aware of any returning symptoms. With that in mind, see below to know which foods to avoid. The study is investigating if following the low glutamate diet for 1 month can improve seizure frequency, severity, and duration; cognitive functioning; and/or quality of life, in children with epilepsy. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of. I mentioned aspartate, another excitatory neurochemical. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. Molecular Pathogenesis of Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis. 2016 Jul 8;11(7):e0158688. Glutamate neuroexcitotoxicity leads to excessive oxidative stress in the brain, causing hyperactivity, seizures and neuronal damage, particularly in the hippocampusthe seat of learning and memory. More work must be done beyond implementing a low glutamate diet to avoid high levels of this potentially troublesome neurotransmitter. Blaylock MD, Russell. The effects of glycemic control on seizures and seizure-induced excitotoxic cell death. 4) Nightshades, IF one just can't live without them. It mimics an Eskimo diet where there are periods of low food availability and the body is forced to burn fat for . Neuropsychopharmacology. While free form glutamate can be found in many natural foods, it is also commonly found in additives in many processed foods with disguised names that we will see later in this article. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov . Avoid slow cooking meats because that frees up more glutamates from protein. Supplement with magnesium L-threonate, a form of magnesium that can cross the blood-brain barrier. My research showed many varied responses, with many citing the virtues of glutamine, and even glutamate as being beneficial. - an elimination diet for the treatment of most conditions afflicting man and his four-legged companions. In 2007 a prospective observational study was conducted in Italy to evaluate the influence of antiepileptic drugs and MTHFR polymorphism and levels of homocysteine. These seizures usually begin between ages 5 and 20, but they can happen at any age. Rout, U.K., et al. It is usually other additives with meat such as sauces and condiments that are the real problem. 9) Meats: Meats are naturally rich in glutamate and aspartate, but this is offset by other amino acids in the food that balances them, in almost all cases. There are no cures for either illness, and treatments are being sought . Avoid lunch meats because they contain high levels of free glutamates. Kash, S.F., et al. Seeds Seeds such as sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds (pepitas) and other seeds are generally high in glutamate. Multiple studies point towards the benefit of increasing vitamin D levels for reducing seizures. Foods and Substances to avoid on a Low Glutamate Diet. Supplement with phenylethylamine (PEA) and honokiol to reduce excitotoxicity. Sai, Y., et al. The G.A.R.D. Supplement with N-acetylcysteine (NAC), green tea and omega-3 fatty acids such as cod liver oil to block glutamates. Both the nervous system and the neurological system are severely impacted if there is excessive glutamate in relation to GABA. Eimerl, S., et al. Corn and rice are lower, but some people can be quite reactive to corn. Exposure to 900 MHz electromagnetic fields activates the mkp-1/ERK pathway and causes blood-brain barrier damage and cognitive impairment in rats. Amy Yaskos list of foods with high free glutamates, How to Increase GABA and Balance Glutamate: Article by Amy Yasko PhD, ND biochemist. 2012; 78(5):571-579. doi:10.1016/j.mehy . A keto diet involves consuming foods that are low in carbohydrates and high in fat. The Glutamate Aspartate Restricted Diet is used to treat certain medical conditions such as celiac disease and epilepsy. The diet is called the Reduced Excitatory Inflammatory Diet (REID). Epilepsy Ontario is the voice of epilepsy in the province. Glutamate allows chemical messages to be sent between nerve cells. After folate therapy, plasma homocysteine and folate were normal in all patients. The amount of glutamate and aspartate in a normal serving of meat would normally not be an issue. This elimination diet was created by John B. Symes, a veterinarian who calls himself Dogtor J. Be wary of spice mixes as many of them contain hidden glutamate. A diet that treats epilepsy could theoretically help bipolar disorder. The low glutamate diet was previously shown to reduce symptoms in fibromyalgia, and thus, was a candidate for this funding. Web. 1) Gluten-free grain substitutes (millet, flax, sorghum, tapioca, amaranth, quinoa) 2) Nuts and seeds (with tree nuts being ideal) 3) Legumes/beans (if necessary and if desired. Animal model of autism induced by prenatal exposure to valproate: altered. If you suffer from glutamate sensititivy, eliminate as much natural and artificial glutamate as possible from your diet and any symptoms should subside. In normal circumstances, substances like glutamate do not normally cross the blood brain barrier (BBB) to enter the brain. The role of glutamate and its receptors in autism and the use of glutamate receptor antagonists in treatment. Speak to your health provider for further clarification. 1997;94(25) . What, how much, and even when we eat all affect the way our brains work. 13 May 2011. Visit theEpidemic Answers Provider Directory to find a practitioner near you. glutamate and GABA, even at very low intensities. This can be a deadly cocktail of chemicals and sugar (not to mention the alcohol itself). 2010 Dec;115(6):1398-408. Initially, some people may need to lower the amount of nervous system stimulants from all sources, and then reintroduce the natural food sources as far as can be tolerated, and then adjusted according to symptoms. By keeping a detailed diary and looking back on it over time, youll be able to gain some insight as to what particular foods or even situations, such as being at a school with heavy WiFi usage or a mold issue, that exacerbate your childs symptoms. Brown, M.S., et al. Following the diet, Dogtor J claims, can help alleviate symptoms by eliminating certain foods from your diet. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the 1997;94(25):14060 . 2000 Jun;43(6):750-62. 23 Jan. 2010. I am seeing first time epileptic dogs within three weeks of starting such diets. Nuts and seeds. 2. A 2012 study out of Hungarymeasured baseline levels of vitamin D in 13 subjects. Dietary changes: Some diets may help control seizures. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects 1% of the world . Glutamate also allows nerve cells to build associated information, which is a foundation of memory. Good gut flora is crucial to GABA production and a healthy gut/brain axis. All rights reserved. 2012 Sep;61(4):546-58. The original meaning of the acronym was the glutamate & aspartate restricted diet, being derived from the fact that The G.A.R.D. Penguin Life, 2003. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. GAD65 antibody-associated autoimmune epilepsy with unique independent bitemporal-onset ictal asystole. The G.A.R.D. The ketogenic diet (KD) is defined as a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet with appropriate amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Studies dating back to the 1920s have shown that diet can improve seizure control in people who have epilepsy. When glutamate is isolated from foods, it has flavor-enhancing properties in the mouth, imparting a savory flavor or "umami" to foods. Ou, D., et al. Glutamate is an amino acid from protein that is a natural and essential part of many common foods that we eat. about people improving bipolar symptoms with ketogenic or low carb diets . 2013;6(1):110. Eggs are a great source of protein that are low in glutamate and aspartate. Tzang, R.F., et al. Autism and EMF? hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can trigger the release of glutamate, Choose organic, non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) produce. Although more famous for its weight-loss effects, the ketogenic diet was originally proposed as a treatment for epilepsy. Voltage-gated Calcium Channels and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Epilepsy in mice deficient in the 65-kDa isoform of glutamic aciddecarboxylase. How to Increase GABA and Balance Glutamate, Katie Reids pantry list of recommended foods, Unblind My Mind: What Are We Eating? Glutamate is actually an amino acid that forms part of the building blocks of protein found in all living things. 44 (2011) 8392. Be wary of spice mixes as many of them contain hidden glutamate. There are also compounds like potassium glutamate, which can be great for some, but not for glutamate sensitive individuals. The hypothalamus requires GABA production to: We cannot talk about glutamates without understanding about GABA and how important a balance between both neurotransmitters is necessary for appropriate brain functioning. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser. But it seems that some people are genetically predisposed to being more sensitive to glutamates and can also convert more glutamine to glutamate than is needed by the body, which hyper-excites the brain and the nervous system. Nightshade fruits (tomatoes) and vegetables (eggplant, peppers, potato) in small amounts provided there are no reactions when re-introduced. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Truth In Labeling Campaigns list of ingredient names used to hide manufactured free glutamate. The study is investigating if following the low glutamate diet for 1 month can improve seizure frequency, severity, and duration; cognitive functioning; and/or quality of life, in children with epilepsy. Recommended diets include the modified Atkins diet, ketogenic diet, and low glycemic diet. 5. (Oil Wheat Germ) 200 Foods Lowest in Glutamic acid (Glutamine) Ranked by a Common Serving Size. Other sources When you delve into it, you will be amazed where you can find glutamates, MSG and other additives. Autism and EMF? Glutamate is also found in significant quantities in other foods that are not matured in any way. . The entire GI tract, from the esophagus to the colon, has numerous glutamate receptors. 2016 Jul 20;11(7):e0157466. Another name often associated with glutamine and glutamate is glutamic acid, which is essentially the same as glutamate. One of the reasons that we see the above lists of symptoms occurring is when people (especially children with underdeveloped nervous systems) eat foods and additives that contain the nervous system stimulants glutamate and aspartate, another neuro-stimulant. The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, adequate-protein, and very-low-carbohydrate diet regimen that mimics the metabolism of the fasting state to induce the production of ketone bodies. Vitamin C is crucial for GABA to inhibit excess glutamate, and lower high copper levels. By reducing their brains exposure to glutamates, they can reduce the over-stimulation of their brain cells and reduce or remove symptoms. Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis. J Neurosci Res. Also, beware of childrens medicines that are coloured, flavoured and non-sugar sweetened. With strong symptoms in conditions such as ADHD, epilepsy, or fibromyalgia its best to avoid all nuts and seeds until symptoms settle down. Herbert, M.R, et al. The Secret Spice: An Undetectable Toxic Cause of Seizure. PMID 15234100. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15234100. Bravo, J.A., et al. Eur J Clin Nutr. Be cautious in supplementing with GABA, as it may convert back to glutamine and then glutamate. Vitamin D Council, April 18th, 2012.http://blog.vitamindcouncil.org/2012/04/18/correction-of-vitamin-d-deficiency-improves-seizure-control-in-epilepsy/, 8. DeHavenon, A., et al. Mol Pharmacol. Rabbit and turkey are the highest in glutamate, while lamb and eggs are the lowest. Seizures ("fits," convulsions) are episodes of disturbed brain function that cause changes in attention or behavior. Although there is little evidence that your diet has a direct effect on seizures, a balanced diet provides essential nutrients and keeps our energy levels steady, helping us to stay healthy. Mackenzie Cervenka, a neurologist and director of the Adult Epilepsy Diet Center at Johns Hopkins Hospital, explains what the ketogenic diet is and how it can benefit people with epilepsy. If you have leaky gut syndrome, aka intestinal permeability, from bacterial overgrowth or food intolerances etc, the inflammation in the gut can also make the blood brain barrier leaky or more permeable to let substances in that should not get in. Speak with your childs doctor if they are on medications that target GABA receptors because they can deplete the neurotransmitter GABA and affect the ability to maintain and balance GABA. Mmmmsuspicious? cooking bone broths, soups and casseroles. Foods to Eat (low in glutamate and asparate): Anti-convulsant drugs can cause nutrient depletion. Glutamate is considered to be an excitatory neurotransmitter or a stimulant and very necessary at timesin the right amounts. Excitotoxicity due to glutamate is associated with stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, lathyrism, autism, some forms of mental retardation, Alzheimers disease and epilepsy. Following are food and substances to avoid, Meats While most meats are naturally rich in glutamate and aspartate, in most cases the effect is offset by other amino acids in the meat. There are different features of foods that affect glycemic index. Plausibility of a pathophysiological link Part II. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry. Curr Mol Pharmacol. We have found that brain metabolism of ketone bodies can furnish as much as 30% of . In fact, EMFs not only cause this flooding of calcium channels, but they can also cause a blood-brain-barrier breech and thus allow infections to invade the brain, leading to PANS/PANDAS. Biology and Human Behavior: The Neurological Origins of Individuality, 2nd edition. Hacohen, Y., et al. The protein gluten found in wheat, rye and barley is 25% glutamate. Energy source for brain cells: Glutamate can be used when reserves of glucose, the main source of energy for cells, are low. except for certain brands recommended by Dr. Reid. Naaijen, J., et al. Medical Hypotheses. 5) Tree nuts (e.g. Humphries, P., et al. I mention this because you may see this name if you research this topic, and it can get confusing when different names are used. The lungs, the ovaries, all the reproductive systems and sperm itself, adrenal glands, bones and even calcification are all controlled by glutamate receptors. Supplement with lithium orotate to reduce the amount of glutamate in the brain and promote GABA. This study investigated the low glutamate diet as a candidate. Increase magnesium levels to offset calcium levels and stop glutamate misfiring. The industrial producers of glutamate tell us this. Eliminate excitotoxins and glutamates in the diet (see above recommendations). Diabetologia. 2014 Dec;92(12):1792-800. The entire electrical conducting system of the heart is replete with all sorts of glutamate receptors. Brain Res. 3) Potatoes. . placed a premium on the elimination of two non-essential . Manev, H., et al. Enhanced susceptibility to stress and seizures in GAD65 deficient mice. Before you commence your diet, see your medical or health care professional for qualified guidance about what foods and supplements are best for your body. Ford, T.C., et al. The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet. Eliminate foods that increase histamines such as fermented foods (soy sauce, sauerkraut and vinegar, for example). Plausibility of a pathophysiological linkPart I. Autism and EMF? Glutamate is an amino acid from protein that is a natural and essential part of many common foods that we eat. The ketogenic diet is a medical treatment carried out under the supervision of a dietitian and an epilepsy specialist. Zinc Picolinate 15mg by Thorne Research. A ketogenic diet increases the GAD enzyme and neurons can use ketones produced from fat burning as a precursor to GABA. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab. Epilepsia. Breitenkamp, A.F., et al. I have epilepsy since age 4 and when I was around 12 years old my family started a gluten free diet with low sugar, and my seizures stopped (I obly had one seizure, but that one was provoked). Carefully note any symptoms that may emerge, and you can then use this information to build a low glutamate diet that suits you best for the long term. It is better to buy whole fresh foods rather than buy canned or packaged foods that have free glutamates in them. For a long time, I wondered about the difference between glutamine and glutamate. The effects of glycemic control on seizures and seizure-induced excitotoxic cell death. This supplement is especially helpful for diabetics. Additionally, the low glutamate diet is balanced, nutritious and palatable, with no side effects. Glutamate and GABA synthesis, release, transport and metabolism as targets for seizure control. High concentrations of glutamate have also been linked to epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, ALS, cognitive dysfunction (including Alzheimer's), and psychiatric issues such as depression, anxiety and PTSD, the article . by SHC Staff | Jun 13, 2011 | Health Issues. Magnesium curbs sugar cravings, calms the body, is a natural calcium channel blocker, regulates blood sugar, increases energy naturally, and metabolizes estrogen. Lean meats and fish in modest serves. Khalifa, D., et al. Pyridoxine Supplementation Improves the Activity of Recombinant. Tang, J., et al. If you suspect that you have glutamate sensitivity, eliminate as many artificial and natural glutamates and aspartates as possible from your diet until symptoms subside. Multiplicity of the antibody response to GAD65 in Type I diabetes. Brain Under Attack: A Resource for Parents and Caregivers of Children with PANS, PANDAS and Autoimmune Encephalitis. Dr. Reid talked about why symptoms of these disorders may disappear when eating a low-glutamate diet. Eliminate all bottled juices and drinks with a shelf life unless they are freshly squeezed because a ingredients containing glutamates such as citric acid are typically used to preserve them. of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911. Currently you have JavaScript disabled. Neurochem Int. Measurement will happen over the course of At 1 month post treatment. This conversion through GAD can be impaired due to the following interfering factors: Although at first it may seem as if its a lot of work to implement a low glutamate diet, the payoff is that you as a parent will know very quickly, within a matter of weeks, if not days or hours, if your childs symptoms are improving by avoiding foods that are high in glutamate. BrainRes. Walls, A.B., et al. Supplement with PharmaGABA because it gets GABA into the brain without converting into glutamine or glutamate. Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain . 2017 Jan 18;18(1). 2019 Jul 24:1362361319866030. High free glutamates are found in conditions such as: GABA (Gamma-AminoButyric Acid) is an amino acid that regulates the autonomic nervous system which maintains balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic (fight or flight) nervous systems. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Excitotoxins are a group of chemicals that when ingested, damage the neurons. natural vanilla flavor). MSG: Deadly Menace in Your Food: Article by Russell Blaylock MD, neurosurgeon, Natural plant products and extracts that reduce immunoexcitotoxicity-associated neurodegeneration and promote repair within the central nervous system: Peer-reviewed article by Russell Blaylock MD, neurosurgeon, Unblind My Mind: Dr. Reids website gives extensive explanation about the science, a TED talk by Dr. Reid and video tutorials to help parents discern appropriate foods in a local supermarket, The Autism Epidemic Is Caused by EMFs, Acting via Calcium Channels and Chemicals Acting via NMDA-Rs, Excitotoxins, Neurotoxins & Human Neurological Disease Lecture by Russell Blaylock MD, Unblind My Mind: What Are We Eating? Although these studies are based on a strict diet called the ketogenic diet, recent evidence has shown that less restrictive diets may also be helpful. (Source) Wheat Germ Oil. There are a multitude of factors going on in the brain that contribute to the excessive glutamate and reduced GABA, especially for children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder. Web. Glutamate can be used as an energy source when glucose levels the main source of energy are low. 6. Palmieri, L., et al. Avoid white rice because free glutamates are involved in the processing of it. 2008 Apr;62(4):451-62. Glutamate is one of the principal neurotransmitters in our brains and is important for learning and memory. Citramate binds to aluminum, which is retained by poor gut flora. Sunday. Hence, manipulations of discrete glutamate-glutamine cycle components may represent . There can be more to autism that this alone of course, but anything that we can do to help is a bonus for those involved. Stimulating foods and drinks Chocolate, raw cacao, coffee and tea all contain glutamates as they are fermented foods and have a strong taste. Processed foods Processed or pre-prepared foods often contain MSG. Schauwecker, P.A. 2015. Brain Res Bull. Excitotoxicity occurs when receptors for the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate are over-activated. The low glutamate diet was previously shown to reduce symptoms in fibromyalgia, and thus, was a candidate for this funding. Gluten-free grains and seeds such as quinoa, amaranth, sesame seeds and flaxmeal. Diet drinks and foods Avoid diet drinks and diet foods of any kind that contain any artificial sweeteners such as Nutrasweet, also called Equal or aspartame, aspartate or aspartamine. Herbert, M.R., et al. High concentrations of glutamate have also been linked to epilepsy . Diet and Nutrition Factsheet 20 How does diet affect epilepsy? Supplement with selenium, B vitamins, polyphenols, bioflavonoids, carotenoids, vitamin E and vitamin C because they all have unique properties which are beneficial in protecting the brain. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine 17.8 (2013): 958-965. 2012 Aug 6;13:94. Your comments are welcome, however if you wish to contact Sue please click here. 16 Apr. GAD65 is essential for synthesis of GABA destined for tonic inhibition regulating epileptiform activity. doi:10.1016/j.neuint.2004.03.007. Huang, Y., et al. These results provide evidence that low-fat dietary strategies more palatable than the ketogenic diet could be useful in epilepsy. MSG can be disguised by calling it hydrolyzed vegetable protein, textured vegetable protein (TVP), flavour enhancer or soy protein extract. Clinical diagnosis and treatment of pediatric anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis: A single center retrospective study. Exp Ther Med. After correcting the defiency and bringing the median up to 38 ng/ml, 10 of the 13 subjects exhibited a decrease in the number of seizures, with five of the patients experiencing a seizure reduction of 50%. This 50-year male suffered from OCD from age 11, fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). . Dietary treatments can help some people with poorly controlled seizures by using specific levels of fat, carbohydrate and protein to affect how the brain works. These diets should be carried out with support . Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. Neurochem Int. 1495 (2013) 5260. 2006 Jan; 147(Suppl 1): S100S108. Dr. 08 July, 2011. Antiepileptic drugs and MTHFR polymorphisms influence hyper-homocysteinemia recurrence in epileptic patients. Provides full spectrum b-vitamins, including a low dose 400mcg of methylfolate. Actual study start date is October 15, 2020. 2019 Feb;108(2):295-299. Fernell, E. Further studies of GABA and Glutamate imbalances in autism are important challenges for future research. Continue to avoid soybean products, but some people can tolerate other legumes and beans in small amounts. Supplement with both zinc picolinate and vitamin B6 (P5P) to help reduce excitotoxicity. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that regulates: Glutamate makes the interaction of all these neurotransmitters in the brain function so we can: Glutamate receptors also have a major role in not only long- and short-term memory but also the development of memories from experience. Our brain is protected by a layer of cells that only allow certain substances into the brain in regulated amounts as needed. Cass, Hyla MD. GABA and phosphatidylserine in human photosensitivity: a pilot study. Tree nuts such as pecans and macadamias are the lowest. With this low glutamate diet, Dr. Reids daughter rather quickly extinguished all autism-like behaviors and eventually recovered from autism. PLoS One. It is regulated at the synapse by the adjacent glial cell to make sure excessive amounts do not accumulate. Glutamates such as MSG can even be found in vaccines, personal care items, food waxes on non-organic fruits, fertiliser and pesticides on our produce, infant formulas (yep there too), protein powders and believe it or not, they can also be found in products claiming to be organic, or say no added MSG. The highest concentrations are found in long, matured cheeses, such as Parmesan and Roquefort. The interesting part is that all of these different health-issues respond to the same foods being eliminated; it makes one wonder if glutinous grains and cow dairy should be in our diet at all. For further information on the diet and recommendations of processed foods that do not contain high amounts of free glutamates, please see Dr. Reids pantry list of recommended foods. . Legislation requires that if monosodium glutamate has been added to a food, the label must declare this in the ingredients listing. (Oil Rice Bran) 0mg in 1 tablespoon. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Disclaimer | Website by fuseStarter, We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Seizures (fits, convulsions) are episodes of disturbed brain function that cause changes in attention or behavior. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) 1 cup black beans soup + 1 cup sauteed vegetables (mushrooms, spinach, capsicum- with butter and olive oil) Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) 1 plate chicken salad with veggies (chicken breast) (onion, tomato, capsicum . Choudhury, P.R., et al. A low glutamate diet may be required by those who have a particular sensitivity to the substance. Mol Neurobiol. Eliminate all gluten and casein products. Role of metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 in autism spectrum disorders: A pilot study. In addition, EMFs such as that from cell phones, wireless phones, WiFi routers, baby monitors, etc., cause these calcium channels to flood via N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, which are essentially glutamate receptors. 4. A typical keto diet consists of 70% . Here are other recommendations to avoid high free glutamate foods: The daily portions of whole foods are broken down as follows to ensure a healthy nutrient balance in a low glutamate diet: Other factors, including supplements, can increase or decrease glutamate. Always check with your health care practitioner when taking medications and supplements together. Sauces and Condiments Sauces and condiments are high risk (especially soy based or tomato based) so it is best to season foods with fresh herbs, spices and salt (avoid chilli/paprika). A 2021 review notes that animal studies have shown that following a keto diet may help decrease glutamate levels. The most damaging, however, is monosodium glutamate, or MSG. She guided us through what foods glutamates are hiding in and what symptoms they can produce. This may help reduce the risk of seizures for some people with epilepsy. In addition to epilepsy, modern research has found multiple health-issues linked to gut damage including: alcoholism, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, Alzheimers, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, lupus, chronic fatigue, diabetes, schizophrenia, major depression and other mental illnesses, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, and many more. Conditions/symptoms that have been helped by reducing glutamate exposure include: Another neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-amino-butyric-acid) is the calming, relaxing neurotransmitter that creates balance between the two neurotransmitters (GABA and Glutamate). 2011 Jul 15;85(6):313-20. Additionally, glutamate can be turned into GABA or aspartate. The longer and slower you cook meat, the more free glutamate is present e.g. Blood Glutamate Levels in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Abstract. Casein, the protein in dairy, especially in parmesan cheese, is 20% glutamic acid by composition. Glutamic acid (glutamate) and aspartic acid (asparatate) combine as a non-essential amino acid that our bodies manufacture from proteins. She is an associate professor in the Department of Health Sciences at American University and is also affiliated with the Center for Behavioral Neuroscience .