Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a challenging behavioral condition characterized by a recurrent pattern of defiance, hostility, and disobedience towards their teachers, parents and authority figures. While the precise causes of ODD remain elusive, emerging research suggests a potential link between neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly involving glutamates and amines, and the manifestation of oppositional defiant behaviors. These are found in many common foods.

Most parents have never noticed an effect of food. A few children ‘go ballistic’ soon after eating food colours but for most families, the effects of food chemicals creep up, unnoticed. What most people see is this:

• Food chemicals can build up gradually, resulting in good days and bad days with no obvious cause
• When a child eats fast food or spaghetti, he or she might be irritable or have a bad day at school the next day or the day after.
• Not everyone reacts to the same food chemicals.
• Some natural “healthy” foods can be a problem.
• Some families are more sensitive than others.

Understanding Glutamates and Amines:

Glutamate is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, playing a pivotal role in various cognitive functions, including learning, memory, and emotional regulation. On the other hand, amines, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are neurotransmitters known for their roles in mood regulation, reward processing, and impulse control.

The Neurochemical Imbalance Hypothesis:

Recent studies have proposed the neurochemical imbalance hypothesis, suggesting that disruptions in glutamate and amine signaling pathways may contribute to the development and persistence of oppositional defiant behaviors. Dysregulation of glutamatergic transmission has been implicated in impulsive aggression and emotional dysregulation, which are hallmark features of ODD.

Furthermore, alterations in amine neurotransmitter systems, particularly serotonin and dopamine, have been associated with deficits in inhibitory control, emotional instability, and reward processing abnormalities—all of which are commonly observed in individuals with ODD.

The Role of Glutamates in ODD:

Glutamate dysregulation has been linked to various psychiatric disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and impulse control disorders. In the context of ODD, aberrant glutamatergic neurotransmission may disrupt the balance between excitatory and inhibitory signaling pathways, leading to heightened reactivity to perceived threats, reduced impulse control, and impaired emotional regulation.

Moreover, alterations in glutamate receptor expression and function, particularly within brain regions implicated in emotional processing and impulse control, may underlie the persistent defiance and aggression observed in individuals with ODD.

Glutamate can also cause other health problems such as high blood pressure, headaches, obesity, diabetes, fertility problems and even cancer.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium salt of glutamic acid and is a common food additive. MSG is made from fermented starch or sugar and is used to enhance the flavor of savory sauces, salad dressings, and soups.

Both natural glutamate and monosodium glutamate are metabolized in the body using the same processes. Even though glutamate exists naturally in the body and in healthy foods, if a child has ODD this will need to be explored further and avoiding foods that could exacerbate or trigger ODD type behaviors.

Foods highest in glutatame include the following:

Cheese You will find the highest levels of glutamate in parmesan and Roquefort cheeses. 

Asian Sauces Soy sauce, fish sauce, and oyster sauce all have very high levels of glutamate. Soy is naturally high in glutamate, and soy-based sauces will have concentrated levels of the compound. 

Nuts Walnuts, cashews and peanuts contain high amounts of glutamate compared to other nuts

Processed Meats Cured ham, either canned, frozen, or at the deli counter, should be avoided if you are worried about glutamate. 

Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato juice, tomato soup, and tomato-based dishes as well. 

Grape Juice Grape juice contains moderate levels of glutamate. 

Seafood Some fish, like anchovies, have moderate amounts of glutamate and scallops and oysters also contain glutamate.

Mushrooms Dried shiitake mushrooms are very high in glutamate and white button mushrooms contain much less, but those trying to eliminate glutamate from their diets should skip the mushrooms altogether.

Peas Compared to most other vegetables, peas contain more glutamate. If you must indulge, keep your portion size small to avoid overconsumption of glutamate.

Starchy Vegetables Corn and potatoes contain relatively low amounts of glutamate, but may be problematic for some people. 

Processed foods such as Pringles, Chinese foods, instant noodles and canned soups. So check the labels when purchasing

Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame is high in glutamate

The Influence of Amines on ODD:

Serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine play crucial roles in modulating mood, behavior, and cognitive functions. Dysregulation of these amine neurotransmitter systems has been implicated in various psychiatric disorders characterized by impulsive and aggressive behaviors, including ODD.

Serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, regulates mood, impulsivity, and aggression. Reduced serotonin levels or dysfunction in serotonin receptors have been associated with increased aggression and irritability, traits commonly observed in individuals with ODD.

Dopamine, known for its role in reward processing and motivation, has also been implicated in ODD. Dysregulated dopamine signaling may contribute to deficits in reward processing, leading individuals with ODD to seek gratification through oppositional and defiant behaviors.

Norepinephrine, regulates arousal, attention, and stress responses. Dysregulation of norepinephrine levels or signaling pathways may exacerbate emotional dysregulation and impulsive aggression in individuals with ODD.

Foods high in amines include: aged cheeses (e.g., cheddar, parmesan), processed or cured meats (e.g., salami, pepperoni), soy sauce, tomato-based products (e.g., tomato sauce, ketchup), spinach, avocado, eggplant, canned or smoked fish (e.g., tuna, mackerel), fermented foods (e.g., sauerkraut, kimchi), yeast extract (e.g., Marmite, Vegemite), vinegar and vinegar-containing foods (e.g., pickles), chocolate, strawberries, pineapples and certain nuts (e.g., walnuts, peanuts)

What’s more, browning, grilling, charring and overcooking food can also increase amine levels

Implications for Treatment and Future Directions:

Understanding the neurochemical underpinnings of ODD, particularly involving glutamates and amines, holds promise for the development of targeted interventions. 

In conclusion, the interplay between glutamates and amines in the pathophysiology of oppositional defiant behavior represents a complex yet promising avenue for research and therapeutic development. By unraveling the neurochemical underpinnings of ODD, we may pave the way for more effective interventions and improved outcomes for individuals affected by this challenging disorder.

The SAG diet has been developed to address Oppositional Defiant behavior and this includes a combination of low salicylates, amines and glutamates. For more information on this please check out this article.

For more information on nutrition strategies to help manage  your child’s aggressive behavior check out our other article on 4 nutrition strategies to manage Oppositional Defiant Behavior.

If you would like to book a consult with one of her clinicians with training in SAG diet and ODD please click here.

WHAT IS A LOW SALICYLATE, AMINE, GLUTAMATE DIET?

As the name implies, these diets remove salicylates, amines and glutamates for the die . It is common for people with compromised biochemistry function (particularly a detoxification pathway called sulfation) to have food intolerances to salicylates, amines and glutamates. Conditions associated with poor sulfation include ADHD, autism, microbiome imbalance, or autoimmune conditions such as lupus. As the name implies, this diet remove salicylates, amines and glutamates for the diet.

BioIndividual Nutrition Institute created the Low Salicylate, Amine and Glutamate (Low SAG) Diet based an amalgamation of multiple diets, research, and clinical experience. These diets remove the natural food chemicals that overwhelm certain people’s systems and cause symptoms.

WHEN CAN IT BE USEFUL?

A low SAG diet may assist children that have Autism that experience these common symptoms:

• Hyperactivity
• Red cheeks and ears
• Irritability
• Defiant behavior
• Self injury
• Aggression
• Sleeping issues – night waking or terrors
• Skin rashes
• Respiratory issues
• Diarrhea
• Cries easily
• Bedwetting
• Urinary urge/ incontinence
• Other indications for this diet include cravings for high salicylate, amine, or glutamate foods, or reactions to these foods

Poor sulfation causes difficulties metabolizing and detoxifying these natural food chemicals and can result in a variety of physical, neurological and behavioral symptoms. This diet removes/minimizes foods that are most difficult for a person with these biochemical imbalances to process. It reduces the burden on the body and decreases, and often eliminates, symptoms.

When nutrients are replenished and other contributors like microbiome are balanced, the food tolerances often improve. Working with a practitioner can help address supplementation and lifestyle factors.

HOW DO YOU IMPLEMENT THE DIET

To implement a low SAG diet, certain foods are eliminated (or limited), typically short term for 3-6 weeks, then tested back. During the elimination phase, observe and record any change or improvement in symptoms, until ready to start testing back foods, by category, to determine tolerance or intolerance.

Testing back phases can vary. Some strategies add multiple servings of very high foods per day for one week, adding large amounts to make a reaction more obvious. Others use a more subtle approach, as they are highly sensitive and/or suspect these food intolerances, and are attempting to determine personal threshold. Even if quite restrictive at the start, it is not intended to stay that way, unless someone is truly sensitive. The objective is to re-introduce as many foods as possible back to ensure a balanced and healthy diet. Work with a nutrition practitioner for help.

If you want to explore implementing this diet with you child please give us a call we would love to help in the meantime if you want a SAG meal option check out our Cashew Butter Pancakes or our Banana Coconut Ice Cream

At Koru the best clinicians to book an appointment to explore implementing the SAG diet would be Thera Ip and Kylie James (both have experience in working with children on the spectrum).

Kylie James is a registered OT and a certified nutritionist as well as completed her Individual nutrition training in the states. Thera Ip is not only a nutritionist but also is a homeopath which provides a gentle motality that can help kids on the spectrum. Thera also has a child on the spectrum.

To book with one of them please go to our online booking page.

Migraines affect millions worldwide, disrupting daily life with throbbing headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea. While medications can help manage symptoms, nutrition and supplements offer a complementary approach to alleviate migraines and possibly reduce their frequency and intensity. Understanding the role of certain nutrients and supplements can empower individuals to adopt holistic strategies for managing this debilitating condition.

Nutrition Recommendations:

1. Hydration: According to the American Migraine Foundation, about a third of people with migraine report dehydration as a migraine trigger. Optimal hydration, achieved through regular water intake, can help prevent headaches. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day and increase intake during hot weather or intense physical activity.
2. Balanced Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides essential nutrients that support overall health, including brain function.
3. Some specific diets that have shown promise in managing migraines include the anti-inflammatory diet, the Mediterranean diet, or the low histamine diet. The National Headache Foundation also suggests trying a low-tyramine diet. It may not be for everyone, but research shows that a keto diet may help reduce migraine attacks compared with a standard diet. This means eating foods that are low in carbohydrates and high in fat, like seafood, non-starchy vegetables, and eggs. For more information on any of these diets please reach out to us at Koru we are happy to help you minimize your migraines.
4. Balance blood sugars: Avoid skipping meals, as irregular eating patterns can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. Food cravings and hunger may be the real root of the trigger. When people have food cravings due to low blood sugar, by the time they eat something, it’s often too late — a migraine attack may already be coming.
5. Identify Food allergies and sensitivities: Foods that you may be sensitive to can trigger headaches and migraines and should be avoided. This can subtle and sometimes hard to detect so the best way to see if this is an issue for you is to complete the food elimination diet or complete food allergy testing with your health practitioner. If you would like to get this tested please reach out to us and we can book you in with one of our naturopath doctors.
6. Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency has been linked to migraines. Incorporate magnesium-rich foods such as almonds, spinach, avocado, and legumes into your diet. Alternatively, consider magnesium supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Ideally magnesium threonate as this crosses the blood brain barrier. Designs for Health has Neuromag which we have seen great results with managing migraines and headaches. To get this supplement please go to our online dispensary.
7. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Studies suggest that riboflavin supplementation may reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Good food sources include dairy products, eggs, lean meats, nuts, and leafy green vegetables.
8. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate migraines. Consider incorporating these foods into your diet regularly.
9. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10, a compound involved in energy production within cells, has shown promise in reducing migraine frequency and severity. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.
10. Feverfew: Feverfew, an herb belonging to the daisy family, has been used traditionally to prevent migraines. Some studies suggest that feverfew supplements may reduce migraine frequency, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
11. Melatonin: Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, may help prevent migraines, particularly in individuals with sleep disorders. Speak to a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and timing for melatonin supplementation.
12. Vitamin D: Some research suggests a link between vitamin D deficiency and migraines. While more studies are needed to establish a definitive connection, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels through supplementation or sensible sun exposure may be beneficial for overall health.
13. Lavendar essential oil: A 2016 randomized controlled study found evidence that 3 months of lavender therapy as a prophylactic therapy, meaning taken before a migraine attack begins, reduced frequency and severity of migraine attacks. However, research is still limited.To purchase any of these supplements please go to our online dispensary.

Conclusion: While nutrition and supplements can complement conventional migraine treatments, it’s essential to approach their use with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Individual responses to dietary changes and supplements vary, and what works for one person may not be effective for another. Additionally, addressing lifestyle factors such as stress management, adequate sleep, and regular exercise is crucial for comprehensive migraine management. By adopting a holistic approach that incorporates nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle modifications, individuals can take proactive steps towards managing migraines and improving their overall quality of life.