Wow, this has been a hot health topic over the last few years.
Pyrrole disorder can affect up to 10% of the population. This percentage can increase with conditions such as depression, anxiety and behavioural issues in children.
The two key nutrients affected are B6 and Zinc. Both of these are important in so many aspects of our health from immune, skin, hormone production, digestion, wound healing and the production of neurotransmitters that help prevent anxiety and depression.
With diet, lifestyle changes and the correct nutrients, this shouldn't impact your life.
Pyrrole Disorder - What is it?
Not to get too technical, but it is an over production of hydroxyheamoprrolin-2-one (HPL). HPL is a by-product of haemoglobin.
While most people have levels of less than 10 mcg/dL of HPL in their urine, people with Pyrrole disorder have much higher levels.
How does it affect your health?
Elevated levels of HPL affects certain nutrients before they have been absorbed into the body. The main nutrients affected are B6 and zinc. Other nutrients such as magnesium, biotin, plus essential fatty acids can also be affected.
It is believed to be a genetic condition. If one parent has Pyrrole disorder, there is a 50% chance it will be passed onto a child.
Some of the signs and symptoms
Multiple white spots on the fingernails.
Growth spurts can worsen symptoms.
Low stress tolerance.
Mood swings
Outbursts, anger, tantrums.
Depression or low mood
Sensitivity to light and noise
Sleep disturbances
Foggy brain
Migraines / headaches
Low appetite in the morning.
Digestive disorders.
Of course, not everyone with these symptoms will necessarily have this disorder. If you suspect you do, there is a very simple, non-invasive test.
Testing
It is a urine test and relatively inexpensive. Roughly around $110 for the initial test, to assess HPL levels. Further testing may be required depending on the results.
Treatment
Don’t try to diagnose and treat this yourself. It is not as simple as taking a B6 and Zinc supplement, you need to know the dosage and the best forms of the necessary nutrients.
Diet and lifestyle is also important.
Reducing stress is very beneficial as well as a diet that incorporates:
A rainbow of fresh, in season fruits and vegetables,
Eat whole foods as close to nature as possible,
Reduce inflammatory foods , packaged and processed foods,
Eat more magnesium rich foods such as leafy greens, nuts and seeds.
If you do think you may have this disorder, please get in contact and we can arrange a consult.
Jules x
References
Fay, B. (2019). Pyrrole disorder: identification and treatment | FX Medicine. Retrieved 25 August 2019, from https://www.fxmedicine.com.au/blog-post/pyrrole-disorder-identification-and-treatment