Selenium

Functional Folate

Folate is an essential B vitamin (B9) that plays a large role in brain development, DNA/RNA production, neurotransmitter production (affecting mood, memory, and cognition), methylation and detoxification. Low levels of folate can contribute to neurological and psychiatric conditions including autism, PANS/PANDAS, anxiety, depression, seizures, epilepsy, and memory loss. In 2018 a study found that treatment with leucovorin (drug acting like folic acid in the body) showed amazing improvements in autism symptoms, epilepsy, irritability, and movement disorders. Another double-blind placebo-controlled trial found children receiving folate for 12 weeks had a significant improvement in verbal communication verses placebo. While other options may be available for those struggling with neurological conditions sometimes going back to the basics may be just what you need!

Chlorella is Stellar!

Algae have gained popularity over the last couple years, and for good reason. Many of these algae are packed exceptionally full with nutrients and beneficial properties, far denser than our usual green sources. One such algae is called Chlorella, a micro-algae that is a close relative to the slightly more popular spirulina. This freshwater organism holds several studied benefits, including weight loss and immune support, but the big-ticket item is detoxification. Heavy metals and a sea of other toxins get absorbed into the body every day, but chlorella has an amazing ability to absorb toxins in our body and protect those toxins from being reabsorbed until it passes through our system. That alone is impressive, but add in the rest of the benefits and you’ve got what truly could be considered a ‘superfood.’ Be cautious though, as quality is essential. Just like chlorella will absorb toxins in our bodies, it also will absorb toxins out of its growing environment, meaning the wrong supplement could bring toxins in instead of taking them out. Check out this article for a deeper overview of chlorella: https://draxe.com/nutrition/chlorella-benefits/

Do You See What I See?

Poor vision is something many of us expect when we get older, or perhaps you are already there (Those of you reading this with a magnifying glass in the brightest room of your house might want to pay special attention!). The leading cause is Age-Related Macular Degeneration, or AMD, which is caused in large by oxidative stress to the eyes. The cells in our bodies are constantly oxidizing, or turning ‘bad,’ and this is especially true for our eyes. As we age, we accumulate damage from this oxidation, causing issues that can range from minor to full blindness. You may have heard the term ‘antioxidant’ before, and these powerful nutrients do exactly what they sound like: Reduce damage from cell oxidation. While antioxidants like Resveratrol are used for full body protection, there are some that are especially beneficial for protecting our retinas. Two of these are Lutein and Zeaxanthin, which also filter out blue light that is especially damaging. While this doesn’t reverse AMD, it may slow progression and protect against future AMD development. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are good sources of these powerful nutrients, and you can also use a high-quality supplement for added support. Studies have found benefit for both aging adults and those who spend large amounts of time on screens (which is most of the population if we’re being honest).

Sources

1. Nutrition TT. Can Selenium Stop Fat Formation? | Terry Talks Nutrition. Terry Talks Nutrition |. Published March 5, 2025. Accessed April 9, 2025. https://terrytalksnutrition.com/study-spotlight/can-selenium-stop-fat-formation/