We have covered a number of ways that different environmental and genetic factors could adversely affect trichotillomania in this blog. This post will focus on another common biological cause for neurotransmitter imbalance that can exacerbate or cause trichotillomania, and that is food allergies or food hypersensitivities.
Most people would never suspect food as a culprit with trich, but there is some good evidence pointing to the possibility that what you eat can dramatically alter your neurotransmitter balance, particularly serotonin levels. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter that affects sleep, mood, cravings (especially for carbohydrates), migraines and a host of other functions, including the urge to pull. It has been estimated that about 95% percent of the serotonin in your body is stored in your gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, gastrointestinal function is very important in maintaining proper neurotransmitter balance.
A great many studies support the fact that intestinal permeability and enzyme deficiencies are often found in folks suffering from depression (which is caused by imbalances of serotonin with dopamine); this is underscored by reports that depression is a very common symptom of celiac disease (which is a condition of severe gluten intolerance). (1-8)
Here at the clinic, it is almost universal that long standing gastrointestinal imbalances, including food allergies almost always lead to or exacerbate depression as well as other conditions related to neurotransmitter imbalances, including the urge to pull, migraines, anxiety, obsessive compulsive tendencies and sleep disturbances.
Therefore, as we are working to help people correct their underlying neurotransmitter imbalances, we will often begin to investigate the many possible reasons why these imbalances are there in the first place. Looking at what someone is eating can provide major insights into eliminating the urge to pull.
We have found the most accurate food hypersensitivity test to be the Lymphocyte Response Assay from Elisa/Act Technologies. Using this test, one can run any number of foods, additives, colors, drugs, supplements, and environmental contaminants to determine which, if any, of them are causing an immune reaction with subsequent neurotransmitter disruption. Once the offending agents are determined, we then work with clients to help eliminate them so their bodies can heal while reestablishing optimal neurotransmitter levels. In doing so, many people can reduce or eliminate the need for ongoing supplementation and remain symptom free for the rest of their lives.
NOTE: If you cannot find a practitioner in your area that can run the LRA test, contact us to arrange for an in-home blood draw.
References
- Corvaglia L, et al. Depression in adult untreated celiac subjects: diagnosis by the pediatrician. Am J Gastroenterol. 1999 Mar;94(3):839-43.
- Ciacci C, et al. Depressive symptoms in adult coeliac disease. Scand J Gastroenterol. 1998 Mar;33(3):247-50.
- Addolorato G, et al. Anxiety and depression in adult untreated celiac subjects and in patients affected by inflammatory bowel disease: a personality “trait” or a reactive illness? Hepatogastroenterology. 1996 Nov-Dec;43(12):1513-7.
- Pellegrino M, et al. Untreated coeliac disease and attempted suicide. Lancet. 1995 Sep 30;346(8979):915.
- Cheliout W. [A misleading depression]. Encephale. 1994 Sep-Oct;20(5):531-4. French.
- Hernanz A, et al. Plasma precursor amino acids of central nervous system monoamines in children with coeliac disease. Gut. 1991 Dec;32(12):1478-81.
- van Praag HM. Affective disorders and aggression disorders: evidence for a common biological mechanism. Suicide Life Threat Behav. 1986 Summer;16(2):103-32. Review.
- Hallert C, et al. Psychic disturbances in adult coeliac disease. I. Clinical observations. Scand J Gastroenterol. 1982 Jan;17(1):17-9.
