Frequently Asked Questions and Other Information ++
Supplementation
About Mineral Absorption and Mineral ChelatesBasic science teaches that the world in general is made up of elements and compounds. Elements are those molecules that are in a fundamental state in the earth as pure molecules with no other ingredients. Elements are represented on the elemental chart which you may remember from your science class, they are the building blocks to ALL other compounds.
Compounds are made up of two or more elements. An example is water, made up of two elements (molecules) of hydrogen and one element (molecule) of oxygen. For example, vitamins are compounds. Understanding this 'element and compound' concept is key to understanding what nutritional minerals are and how living organisms use them.
Nutritional minerals
The major minerals (also called "macrominerals") that are important for life are, in alphabetical order, Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), and Sodium (Na).
Trace Minerals
Another grouping of minerals based on intake requirement is 'trace minerals': Boron (B), Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Iodine (I), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Molybdenum (Mo), Selenium (Se), Vanadium (V), and Zinc (Zn). The requirement for trace mineral intake is generally lower than for macrominerals.
Minerals in Nature are Inorganic Natural Minerals and Trace Minerals are all found on the elemental chart as well as in the earth in their natural pure form. They are also mixed with other elements to form, for instance, copper oxide. In their natural state, these minerals are all known as "inorganic elements." In biological terms, minerals are considered inorganic, which means, not biological in origin. Compounds of biological origin are referred to as organic. This is important to know, in order to discuss a special type of organic compound called a chelate.
Chelates
Living organisms cannot use inorganic minerals directly. If an inorganic mineral is presented to a living organism, the organism must first convert this inorganic mineral to an organic form, a biological form, or organic compound. In the human digestive process when an inorganic mineral is presented to the digestive system the chemical process of this system starts to work, chemically bonding the inorganic molecule to an organic molecule. The end product of this process is called a chelate. Chelate comes from the latin word for bond. Mineral chelates can be seen by the body as an organic compound that can be absorbed and utilized.
Mineral Absorption
Many things can affect the efficiency of inorganic minerals being absorbed in the body. Most often, there is not enough organic matter to bond with the mineral before it passes through the organism unabsorbed. The health of the organism may prevent the assimilation of this mineral, particularly if the digestive system is not working well. It can be very difficult or impossible to get sufficient minerals from food intake alone to keep the organism at optimal health.
Mineral Chelates
Mineral forms have been created by science in which an inorganic mineral from nature has been bonded to an amino acid or organic acid, into an organic form that the body can assimilate. These molecules are called Krebs chelates (which refers to the organic acids of the Krebs cycle) or amino acid chelates. This chelated organic form of inorganic mineral elements bonded to amino acids or organic acids substantially increases the probability that the digesting organism will absorb the mineral for its use and benefit.
About the Spectrum Support Formulas
Natural Metabolic and Neurological Support Supplements
Spectrum Support Liquid Multivitamin, Mineral, and Herbal Supplements represent a major evolutionary advancement in natural nutritional support for children who need extra neurological and metabolic support. Spectrum Support formulas were formulated with great care by Michael Lang, our late founder, a nutritionist and autism biochemistry researcher and parent.
Spectrum Support supplements are fundamentally different than other multivitamins:
1. The nutrients are delivered in a technologically advanced ultra-colloidal liquid suspension that allows them to be extremely well absorbed in the digestive tract.
2. The formulas are designed by the parent of two sensitive children, to meet the needs of other extremely sensitive individuals. The supplements contain no artificial colorings, flavorings or sweeteners, and also no sugar, gluten, casein, corn, soy or other allergens, and very low in phenols.
3. Each ingredient has been chosen for optimal absorption and quality, and each formula carefully balanced to work synergistically.
4. The vitamin and mineral formulas are complimented by a proprietary blend of gentle but effective herbs. These herbs were carefully chosen to enhance natural detoxification, immune, gastrointestinal and metabolic function.
Spectrum Support Formulas offer a six-tiered, flexible supplementation framework designed to effectively meet the individual special needs of sensitive children and adults, and can be custom-tailored to a variety of needs and body weights. Most adults will start on Spectrum Support I (SSI). Depending on individual needs, most of our ASD children start out on either Spectrum Support II with PAK (SSIIP) or original Spectrum Support II (SSII). After a few months, depending on their individual needs, some move "up" to a more intense level of supplement, or "down" a level. The main difference between the supplements is the level of B vitamins and detoxification support. Most adults will start on Spectrum Support I or Spectrum Support II, depending on their level of neurological involvement.
All Spectrum Support formulas are divided into separate vitamin and mineral components. Having the vitamins and the minerals in separate bottles provides even more flexibility for addressing a broad range of individualized metabolic needs. All Spectrum Support formulas utilize scientifically advanced, highly absorbable, and bioavailable forms of key vitamins and minerals in carefully established and metabolically significant dosages. The formulas contain a synergistic blend of vitamins, minerals, accessory nutrients, and essential oils designed to slow and reverse metabolic imbalances.
Spectrum Support I, II, IIP, III and Spectrum Support Minerals and Mega-Minerals also contain sophisticated, targeted proprietary herb blends that are mostly organically grown, have been water-extracted, and are alcohol-free. The formulas are designed to provide comprehensive metabolic support for body systems that may have fallen out of their normal balance and rhythm. These herbs provide gentle support for detoxification, glutathione production, metabolism and digestive function.
Spectrum Support Ultra-Sensitive and Advanced Sensitive Formulas do not include herbs and are both approved for use on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet. The Sensitive formulas are designed for those who do not tolerate herbs, or individuals who are doing their own advanced biomedical program and wish to choose different herbs to better suit their needs.
Advanced Sensitive is a moderate B-vitamin formula, similar to Spectrum Support II, but without herbs, NAC, TMG, MSM and DMAE. Advanced Sensitive is designed for herb-sensitive people or those using methyl B12 shots or other custom biomedical programs. It is our only low-oxalate formula.
Ultra-Sensitive Formula features reduced ingredients in the vitamin component particularly, intended to be very easily tolerated, even by the most sensitive 5% of children on the spectrum who cannot tolerate most multivitamins. Ultra-Sensitive Minerals are identical to Spectrum Support Minerals, (used with SSI, SSII, SSIII), except with no herbs or MSM. They are also very well tolerated by exceptionally sensitive people.
The nutrients in all these formulas are delivered in a technologically advanced liquid suspension that allows them to be extremely well absorbed in the digestive tract. The intention of this liquid is to deliver nutrients in a very well broken-down, well-absorbed small particle form, to a delicate gastrointestinal system, without irritating the body in any way.
All Spectrum Support formulas were designed to be taken by children or adults mixed with a small amount of fruit juice or other beverage. They may also be taken alone, washed down with water or any other beverage. All of the formulas are very tastefully flavored with natural lemon and lime flavoring extracts and low-glycemic index glycerin to create a very palatable liquid supplement that people enjoy taking. We are proud to present a natural, tasty, easy to dose, formula which contains no added sugar, artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or sodium benzoate preservative.
BrainChild Nutritionals' Spectrum Support formulas are free of egg, wheat, wheat germ oil, gluten, dairy, casein, yeast, corn, soy or refined sugars. All Spectrum Support formulas are also free of artificial vitamin A palmitate, making it an exceptional multiple to use in conjunction with fish oil/natural vitamin A supplementation protocols. Every effort has also been taken to avoid any significant sources of natural salicylates, phenols, or benzoates and all our formulas are Feingold acceptable for Stage I. The formulas are also available unflavored and hypoallergenic by request in order to better accommodate children with dietary allergies or intolerance.
The suggested dosage is based upon body weight and can be adjusted for anyone from 25 to 200 pounds. It is possible to switch between different Spectrum Support Formulas easily, as the dosages remain the same. We find that after taking the supplements for several months, the body often starts utilizing the nutrients better, and that the higher intensity formulas are then much better tolerated over time.
Extra Sensitive Startup Suggestions
When introducing our vitamin and mineral supplements to children, elderly people, or adults with a particularly high level of sensitivity, a conservative approach is often indicated. The following approach has been found to be highly effective for introducing our supplements in such situations. This is also the approach we recommend if sensitivity is encountered while using the regular start-up schedule (after first taking a one-week break from the supplements).
| Day | Minerals | Vitamins |
| 1-4 | 1/8 suggested dose | none |
| 5-7 | 1/4 suggested dose | none |
| 8-11 | 1/2 suggested dose | none |
| 12-15 | 3/4 suggested dose | 1/8 suggested dose |
| 16-19 | full dose | 1/4 suggested dose |
| 20-23 | full dose | 1/2 suggested dose |
| 24-27 | full dose | 3/4 suggested dose |
| 28 on | full dose | full dose |
This schedule is a much slower, more conservative version of the regular schedule, designed for those who have the greatest challenge adapting to new nutrients. You will start by giving the Minerals (Part B) only, three times a day, at one-eighth of the suggested dosage. Assuming this goes well, after getting Minerals well-established, you will begin very slowly adding the Vitamins. The mineral formula is generally found to be a very calming supplement, and serves to build a firm "foundation" to which vitamins can be gradually added.
Introduction of the supplements, especially the vitamins, can be slowed down further if you or your doctor feel it is indicated. Signs of sensitivity while on this schedule may indicate that a less intense formula should be tried (i.e. if you are using Spectrum Support II, switch down to Spectrum Support I or Ultra-Sensitive Formula instead). If indicated, we can send you trial size samples of other vitamin formulas, as part of this process, to allow you to try both formulas and figure out which one is the best fit for the individual. Please feel free to call us if we can support you in any way while you are in the process of introducing our supplements.
If the full dose is smaller than one teaspoon per meal, then we suggest that you begin with one-eighth teaspoon of the supplement for the first four days as your initial dose, and work up slowly. from there if that amount is well tolerated.
General Supplementation FAQ
Q: What about Vitamin A and cod liver oil - can I and should I give this in addition to your supplements?
A: Our vitamin formulas contain carotenoids, such as beta carotene. In a healthy body, carotenoids are converted, as needed, into vitamin A. Various kinds of dysfunctions in the body, including heavy metal toxicity, can interfere with this process. Therefore, we suggest that people with heavy metal issues who use our vitamin supplements should probably also take some other form of pre-formed vitamin A, such as cod liver oil. We are pleased to offer Nordic Naturals' excellent cod liver oil in low-phenol peach flavor, which is a terrific choice for this purpose.
Q: What is the vegetable glycerine in your supplements made of?
A: The process of making glycerine is virtually identical to the distilling process used for alcohol. The vegetable material used to make the glycerine is completely distilled away, to the point where glycerine made from one vegetable is chemically indistinguishable from glycerine made of another. We use pharmaceutical quality kosher glycerine made from palm and coconut. Children who are allergic to coconut should not have any reaction to this glycerine, as the coconut protein is entirely removed in the distillation process mentioned above.
Q: We're vegetarians. Are there any ingredients in BrainChild supplements that have animal sources?
A: Our Spectrum Support supplements are entirely vegetarian, with no animal sources. The only ingredients we use from animal sources are glucosamine (from shellfish) and chondroitin (from cows) in our Intestimend formula.
Q: Are BrainChild supplements kosher?
A: Although we believe that there is nothing in any of our supplements except Intestimend that would keep them from being kosher we have not applied for kosher status for them, so at this time, they are not considered kosher.
Q: How much of the herbs are in BrainChild's Vitamin formulas?
A: The dosage of the herbs in our Spectrum Support formulas is very small. We're really just adding a very tiny amount of herbs to very, very gently help the nutrients do their job. For a more therapeutic dose of these amazing herbs, try our Herbathione tincture.
Q: Are BrainChild supplements allowed on the GFCF or Feingold Diets?
A: All of our supplements are completely free of gluten and casein. They are also approved for the most restrictive stage (Stage 1) of the Feingold Diet.
Q: Are BrainChild supplements allowed on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD)?
A: Because of interest in the SCD community in using our liquids, we personally met with Elaine Gottschall several years ago. She approved the following BrainChild supplements for use on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (these supplements are technically "SCD-approved", but not "SCD-legal", since they contain xanthan gum, an SCD-illegal ingredient): Spectrum Support Ultra-Sensitive Formula (vitamins and minerals) LiquiZinc (flavored and unflavored) LiquiMag (flavored and unflavored)
Q: What are phenols and how do I know whether my child has difficulties with them?
A: Almost everything edible has some phenolic compound in it. The things highest in problematic phenolic compounds are the petroleum-based additives - the artificial colorings, flavorings, and the three preservatives called BHT, BHA, TBHQ. These appear to be able to overload an enzyme called PST (phenol sulfotransferase) which is needed also in the brain because the brain chemicals called neurotransmitters are also phenolic. People with ADHD and autism have been shown in studies to be low in this enzyme.
It appears, furthermore, that for at least some people these additives act more directly on the brain, like a drug. They are low molecular weight chemicals and can pass through membranes. They have been shown to be 99% "bound" to blood proteins. This is how some psychoactive drugs also work. More information about phenols and what to do for particularly phenol-sensitive people may be obtained from the Feingold Association.
If you are interested, you may want to try one informal method of determining sensitivity to phenols and salicylates: avoid all high-phenol foods for three days. This means no artificial flavors or colors, no foods containing BHT, HBA, TBHQ, and no red or dark colored fruits or citrus fruits. Pears are ok. The fourth day, eat a whole meal of high-phenol foods: grapes, apples, and food with preservatives and artificial colors and flavors, if possible. After you eat, watch for physical reactions. Some common ones include red ears or face, feeling hot or cold or feeling "drunk" or strange. If you notice any kind of physiological changes, you should probably consider avoiding phenols in your everyday diet, and look into the Feingold program.
Q: Do the sulfury ingredients in BrainChild supplements feed candida (yeast)?
A: We firmly believe that supporting sulfation is key to helping people with low glutathione and heavy metals issues. However, as these people often start out with severely compromised gut chemistry, the trick is to get nutrients in which will help, without aggravating an already bad situation. Getting raging candida under control should be one of the first goals of any biomedical program for these individuals.
Q: Is it OK to give Herbathione Tincture with a cold or chronic infection?
A: The only time not to take Herbathione is when you have a fever. Some of the herbs are "warming" to the body, which is great most of the time, but not helpful when fever is present.
Q: Can people who are sensitive to lemons, limes or coconut take your supplements?
A: We use natural lemon and lime extract flavorings in the flavored versions of our supplements. If there is a sensitivity to lemons or limes, you will probably want to choose the unflavored versions. Our coconut glycerine contains no coconut protein, due to the distillation process used in making glycerine, so children with coconut sensitivities are generally able to tolerate our supplements with no problem.
Q: I heard that all Vitamin E comes from soy. Can people who are allergic to soy take your supplements?
A: We use a very special European-made pharmaceutical grade natural vitamin E that is made of a combination of rice, corn and soy. We have spoken with several of the chemists who make this product, and they have informed us that when they analyze their finished product, it is chemically identical, regardless of which source it's made from. In other words, all of the corn-specific or soy-specific proteins have been removed in the process to the point where you can't tell which it was made from. Therefore, someone with a corn, rice or soy allergy will not have a reaction to this particular vitamin E.
All Vitamin E is not the same. There is wide variation between different natural vitamin E products, from Chinese ones, with inconsistant quality and controls on them, to Japanese, which are generally better in quality, to the cadillac european stuff like we buy. Many companies use synthetic vitamin E made from petrochemicals. This is an appealing material to some manufacturers, as it's cheaper, tastes nicer, shelves longer, but it also requires more preservatives, usually also synthetic. Synthetic vitamin E blocks cellular utilization of natural vitamin E. So we suggest absolutely avoiding synthetic Vitamin E in your supplementation!
Brainchild Supplements FAQ - By Michael Lang
Q: Why does BrainChild Nutritionals make only liquid supplements?
A: To better answer this question, let's first take a look at how our digestive system functions. The food is first wetted by electrolyte-rich saliva in the mouth. Then adequate chewing and mastication converts food solids into saturated liquids. In the stomach, hydrochloric acids, pepsin, and mucous are secreted and the stomach contents approach a more liquid state. After sufficient time, movement, liquification, and digestive action in the stomach, the food contents now a liquid slurry called chyme, enter the duodenum, or first section of the small intestine.
Here they are saturated with more mucous, pancreatic bicarbonate and enzymes, and bile to further liquefy and break down the nutrients from the food we eat into vitamins, minerals, peptides, carbohydrates, fats and fatty acids that our cells can utilize in their normal structure and function.
The liquid nutrients in BrainChild Nutritionals (BCN) supplements are extensively mechanically pre-digested to a very small particle size. This process facilitates optimal absorption of nutrients through the walls of the intestines, into the bloodstream, and ultimately into the cells, where their support of cellular energy production and detoxification is most crucially needed. They are also good-tasting when mixed into a favorite juice and easily administered, saving the "amateur apothecary" (who opens 8 capsules and crushes 3 tablets with a mortar and pestle to put together the needed nutrients) a great deal of time and money.
An independent clinical study of BCN Spectrum Support liquid supplements was conducted through the Southwest Autism Research Center and Arizona State University in 2000 and published in The Journal For Alternative and Complimentary Medicine. This study showed that all symptoms of either loose stools or infrequent bowel movements in the children on the spectrum in the study were completely resolved in less than one month. The study also reported that where sleep disruptions accompanied the stool anomalies, (possibly a parallel phenomenon of GI inflammation or dysfunction), those issues were also resolved within a parallel time frame.
Studies have shown that liquid nutrients can be at least 3-5 times better absorbed and assimilated than capsules, tablets, or powders. Short of doctor-prescribed IV or injectable nutrient delivery, oral or sublingual liquids have proven to be the best means to normalizing nutrient status in the body. With this in mind, please note that extremely huge dosages of many essential nutrients are no longer required when using our sub-micron particle suspension formulas. (Please consult our dosage chart on the website or in our info packets for the best starting dosage based on a carefully designed mg per kg ratio) By accomplishing more with less, we are able to create better tasting formulas that utilize smaller particle sized and lower quantities of superior forms of nutrients within a far more effective, liquid delivery vehicle.
Clearly, when nutrient status and overall health are compromised and getting results are the highest priority, liquid supplements are the best choice in oral administration.
Q: Aren't capsules and tablets easier to administer and just as effective as liquids?
A: Pills are made by compressing fairly large volumes of nutrient powder, along with binders like cellulose fiber or vegetable starch in tablet presses that exert three to four tons of pressure per square inch, making a smaller, more easily swallowed finished product. This tablet is more like a piece of gravel and not easily broken down to the liquid state our GI tracts convert food into. Colonic therapists often report fully intact tablets in outflow from the colon going out of the body with little nutrient assimilation taking place, especially when digestion is sub-optimal.
Powders and capsules, while a little better than tablets, must be fully wetted and broken down to be assimilated. Often, powders in capsules are only dry milled to just the 10-100+ micron particle size range, and are not well absorbed through the gut lining without significant digestive action. Children on The Spectrum commonly have digestive issues like low stomach acid, pancreatic bicarbonate, fat digesting bile, and enzymes, contributing to or exacerbating the maldigestion and malabsorption of nutrients. It is unlikely that powders or capsules will be fully broken down and assimilated in the presence of these issues. If only partially broken down, these powdered nutrients may also cause intestinal irritation and nausea.
Clearly, one of the primary functions of digestion is to fully liquefy the food we eat so nutrients can be better assimilated into our bodies. Why interfere with the natural function of our body's physiology? If the objective of digestion is to turn the solids we eat into liquids, why put dry powders, capsules, or tablets into the GI tract, especially when the very digestive processes at issue are commonly functioning at a sub-optimal level in children and adults with gastro intestinal issues?
Digestive problems that further limit the breakdown and assimilation of powders, capsules, or tablets are bypassed when BCN liquid suspension nutrients are utilized. In fact, minerals like magnesium and calcium provide essential nutrient support for the contraction/relaxation of smooth muscles of the intestine and colon that facilitate normal peristaltic movement, digestion, and nutrient absorption. When these crucial minerals are delivered in a more efficient and effective manner, the digestive tract receives the needed raw materials to normalize its structure and function.
Since nutrient absorption and proper nutritional status are often major issues with children on The Spectrum, especially those undergoing mineral-depleting chelation therapy, optimal nutrient delivery and assimilation is and has always been our highest priority at BCN. Capsules or tablets are often not an option for early interventions for many children, and also for adults with swallowing issues. For adults or children with oral sensory defensiveness to swallowing, presenting liquids is the only clear choice in supplementation.
Q: Why do you offer a variety of vitamin and mineral formulas?
A: As many clients and practitioners have come to know, individuals with neurotoxic or Spectrum conditions have a wide variety of nutritional needs, with some responding very well to specific forms or levels of certain nutrients and others benefiting from either far more or less or different forms of these same nutrients.
Some individuals may have enhanced metabolic needs, while others have intolerances to some of the very nutrients others benefit greatly from. That is why you'll find that BCN offers Spectrum Support I, II, III, along with Spectrum Support II with PAK B-6, and Ultra-Sensitive vitamin formulas. We also provide three mineral formulas for foundational mineral support with Spectrum Support Minerals, chelation support with Mega-Minerals, and Ultra Sensitive Minerals for severely allergic/intolerant individuals who have been unable thus far to tolerate other targeted Spectrum supplement products.
Q: Why don't you offer vitamins and minerals in one bottle?
A: BCN vitamin and mineral formulas are divided into separate bottles for many important reasons. First, we can maximize potency in each bottle and facilitate better taste compliance in so doing. Second, vitamins and minerals in liquids have longer shelf lives and higher residual potencies when they are not blended in formulas together. Third, with separate formulas, you can easily increase the dose of minerals while holding or even decreasing the dose of vitamins or vice versa. This functionality makes our formulas extremely versatile both within the parameters of each individual product and interactively with all the others we offer.
Lastly, chelation for heavy metals via DMSA or DMPS can cause or worsen severe mineral deficiencies in what could be described as a "friendly fire" nutrient depletion scenario. Health-giving minerals co-administered with chelators can also draw their binding potentials away from the intended targets of metal toxins, resulting in a lose/lose situation of mineral depletion and reduced chelation benefit. To circumvent this scenario, most practitioners utilize a "days on/days off" mineral administration protocol with chelation. Having separated mineral and vitamin products provides flexibility without the loss of vitamin supplementation.
Q: Why are there herbs in your formulas and what functions do they serve?
A: We utilize trace quantities of herbs in our vitamin formulas (except the Ultra-sensitive Formula, which does not contain any herbs) that are designed to help recycle glutathione and support gut, immune, and neurological function. Our herbs are organically grown, extracted
in gluten-free alcohol, and finally rendered as alcohol-free extracts. They are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) and have been used by traditional practitioners on nearly every continent with good safety and efficacy when given to very young children. We avoid buying herbs from China.
Our minerals utilize a decoction of herbs that:
1. Enhance liver function
2. Move bile
3. Boost immune function and the body's defense against physical and mental stress
4. Provide anti-microbial mucilaginous polysaccharides that reduce inflammation in the gut and help regenerate the intestinal mucosal barrier
Our herbal glutathione recycling tincture, Herbathione, is a more concentrated form of the herbs used in our vitamins. More than a dozen research articles supporting the included singular herb's effects on increasing plasma and hepatic/liver glutathione are referenced on the FAQ page, under "About The Herbs We Use", or available in our product information packet. This is an excellent adjunct support to any form of glutathione administration as it facilitates more effective redox or recycling of glutathione to defend the body against free radicals and heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic.
Q: What is IntestiMend?
IntestiMend is an innovative sulfur, gastrointestinal, and detoxification support supplement that utilizes a broad range of sulfur-based accessory nutrients.
A healthy gastrointestinal tract is lined with a protective barrier of sulfate that appears to provide resistance to a wide range of biological, viral/immunological, dietary, inflammatory and toxicological challenges. Compromises in sulfation chemistry from toxin exposure may diminish this natural resistance.
IntestiMend is designed to provide precursor, multi-elemental and catalyst support for the cellular protective barrier called Glycosaminoglycans (GAGS), which are predominantly composed of sulfur-bearing amino acids bonded to polysaccharide sugar molecules. These are often dysfunctional in the damaged intestines of children and adults with digestive or Spectrum issues. Many parents of children on the Feingold Diet that have had accidental ingestions of restricted foods or additives have reported that IntestiMend completely halts severe reactions to these foods within 20-30 minutes. While it has not yet been demonstrated, it may function in a similar manner with accidental gluten/casein food ingestions for those individuals on a Gluten Free Casein Free (GFCF) diet as well. IntestiMend also works well as a daily sulfur support supplement for children and adults with low sulfur/sulfate levels and may also boost glutathione levels.
Q: How is your LiquiZinc formula different from other zinc supplements?
A: LiquiZinc is a super-absorbable therapeutic liquid zinc supplement that effectively raises plasma zinc status and helps balance elevated plasma copper and cadmium. Use this product gently when copper or cadmium are somewhat elevated to ensure effective metallomineral balance, or to maintain crucial zinc status when levels are normal. Please note: this product should be used with a practitioner's supervision and plasma monitoring when toxic levels of copper, cadmium, or other heavy metals are present.
Liquid-Caps FAQ
Q: How many liquid-caps will my child have to take?
A: One capsule is equivalent to 1 teaspoon of vitamins or minerals. So a 50 lb child would take 2 capsules of each, with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Alternately, an adult or older child could split the suggested daily dose into two larger daily doses, with breakfast and dinner. We recommend 3 doses, if possible. As with our liquids, please take the last dose at least 2 hours before bedtime.
Q: How big are the capsules?
A: The liquid-caps of the regular Spectrum Support formulas are a standard "0" size veggie capsule, which is about 3/4 inch long, and 1/4 inch wide. The liquid-caps of the Ultra Sensitive and Advanced Sensitive formulas are smaller -- a size "1" capsule, which is about 1/2 inch long and less than 1/4 inch wide. This might be helpful for kids who can only swallow smaller capsules.
Q: Do they look like fish oil capsules / softgels?
A: No, they're more like the kind of clear capsules you see dry powdered supplements in, with 2 parts that fit together. The big difference is that they have liquid in them and they're sealed. Some of the products will appear fuller than others.
Q: What's in the liquid in these capsules?
A: It's a concentrated version of the exact same nutrients and herbs that are in our liquids with vegetable glycerine, medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, and just a tiny amount of water. The nutrients are broken down to a very small particle size, just like in our liquids. The liquid-caps don't contain any flavoring, preservatives, xanthan gum or fillers.
Q: What do they look like?
A: The capsules themselves are clear, and you can see the liquid inside. The vitamin liquid-caps are a darker, more intense version of the bright orange color of our liquid vitamins. The mineral liquid-caps are sort of a medium brown, from the herbs in them. Some of them look fuller than others, due to the varying amounts of material in each formula.
Q: Do they have any flavor?
A: No, they just taste like capsules. If they had any kind of flavor it would be slightly sweet, from the glycerine inside them.
Q: What are the capsules themselves made of?
A: The capsules are made of cellulose derived from pine trees. We chose clear capsules, so there are no dyes or other coloring agents in them.
Q: Is it cheaper to ship these capsules than the liquids?
A: Yes, because they weigh a lot less, your cost to ship them will be lower than for liquids.
Q: How long do they stay good?
A: They are marked with a two-year shelf life, from date of manufacture.
Q: Do liquid-caps need to be kept in the refrigerator?
A: Because the nutrients are in sealed capsules, it is not necessary to refrigerate our liquid-caps. Please keep them in a cool, dry place.
Q: What sizes do they come in?
A: Liquid Caps are available in 180 and 360 capsule sizes. 180 is a one month supply for a 50-lb child. They are also available in a trial size, which includes 6 capsules each of vitamins and minerals.
Q. Do they contain exactly the same ingredients as your Spectrum Support liquids?
A. The capsules contain the same ingredients as our liquids, with the following exceptions: The capsules do not contain any l-glycine, flavorings or xanthan gum, and they contain much less glycerine than the liquids. The capsules also contain a small amount of MCT (medium chain triglyceride) oil and the vegetable capsule material itself.
Resources
About the Nutrients in IntestimendBiotin
Biotin (vitamin B7) is a member of the vitamin B complex, and is important for many essential processes within the body. One of Biotin's major roles is the breakdown of fats, proteins and carbohydrates and their conversion into usable energy.Biotin is used in the treatment of intestinal disorders including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), leaky gut syndrome, intestinal parasite infections, candida and intestinal bacterial infections.
In the presence of biotin, yeast cannot convert into their mycelium form, which is the form in which they invade tissues, and the form that is most difficult to get rid of. It is important to note that because a major source of biotin is gut bacteria, most children with yeast and/or bad bacterial overgrowth will actually be suffering from biotin deficiency.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a key building block of glycoproteins and glycosaminoglycans to make connective tissue that holds all the cells of the intestinal wall together.
Glucosamine is normally produced in the body from glucose combining with the amino acid glutamine. It has been labeled 'a basement membrane builder', since it is the starting point for the manufacture of many materials to produce a variety of tissues/protein structures. For example, it is used in the structures that surround blood vessels and tissues, helping to determine their permeability. It is crucial for the production of a substance that lines the mucus membranes of the digestive tract, lungs and genital urinary tract. This protective lining is a barrier against irritants. Providing glucosamine can have a dramatic effect in alleviating conditions associated with mucus membrane enervation, such as intractable cystitis, and bowel disorders.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin helps bond connective tissue and collagen fibers in many types of tissues, including the gut wall. These fibers retain vital moisture required for elasticity, resiliency and resistance to compression. Because chondroitin molecules are too large to pass through the gut wall, the full amount chondroitin in IntestiMend is directly available to the intestinal wall cells with which it is in direct contact. This is a much more effective use of chondroitin than most general joint formulas, in which most of the chondroitin never gets to the joint tissues it is intended to help. Crohn's disease is characterized by inflammation, muscle layer overgrowth, and collagenous fibrosis of the intestinal tract, so support of the fibrous tissues of the gut may be helpful in these cases.
MSM
The relatively small amount of research available about MSM shows it to be very promising indeed for gut health and integrity. MSM (Methyl Sulfonyl Methane) appears to coat all the mucus membranes of the body, creating a shield through which contaminants can be prevented from entering body tissues. Parasites, such as Cryptosporidium, giardia, salmonella, even hookworm can be dissuaded from entering the walls of the stomach and intestines. This coating can also provide a hostile living environment for parasites. MSM may also prevent the roots of the candida yeast culture from penetrating the intestine wall, thus reducing the severity of this disease. Industrial contaminants such as exhaust gasses, solvents etc. may also be hindered from entering intestinal tissues by this MSM shielding.
Given time, some researchers believe that MSM will start to repair the intestinal wall damage causing the gut to leak. MSM provides a source of sulfur, to be used in detoxification and sulfation of the GAG's. Inorganic sulfates must be balanced with organic sulfur compounds like MSM for optimum balance and effectiveness.
N-acetyl cysteine
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a highly bioavailable form of the amino acid cysteine, meaning the body can make use of it much more efficiently than other forms. NAC is a potent antioxidant and detoxifier and provides the body with cysteine, the crucial nutrient for the formation of glutathione, the body's master detoxifying chemical. With regards to leaky gut specifically, NAC helps to detoxify toxins produced by intestinal yeast/bacterial overgrowth and stimulates immune function in the gut lining, increasing white blood cells. This detoxifying action also helps beneficial bacteria to establish themselves in the gut if NAC is taken concurrently with a probiotic supplement.
NAC also powerfully enhances liver function through production of glutathione and other conjugation enzymes by supplying vital sulfur molecules. This helps heal a leaky gut as the liver can cope with toxins better and hence spills fewer into the bile therefore irritating the lining of the small intestine to a lesser extent. Research has shown that oxidation may play an important role in increased intestinal permeability and that treatment with NAC can prevent this damage due to it's powerful antioxidant properties.
Please Note: We are aware that some doctors are very cautious about the use of NAC with their patients with autism. We feel that the very low dosage of NAC in IntestiMend is safe and helpful. Please consult your physician as needed.
Calcium D-Glucarate
Calcium D-Glucarate helps to detoxify the gut and catalyze the formation of glycosaminoglycans (GAG's). Calcium D-glucarate has been shown to inhibit beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme found in certain gut bacteria. By inhibiting this enzyme, the body is better able to eliminate toxic chemicals and hormones. Recent research suggests that Calcium d-Glucarate enhances the process of glucuronidation, in which foreign organic compounds, fat-soluble toxins and steroid hormones are detoxified and excreted from our bodies. Calcium D-glucarate has also been researched in relation to it's effect on certain types of cancer.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine
N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) as an anti-microbial and gut anti-inflammatory. NAG is essential for the secretion of the mucus that creates a protective lining on top of the cells of the gut.
Aside from being able to heal the extracellular tissue surrounding intestinal cells, NAG has the unique ability to decrease the binding of some lectins to the intestinal lining, which can reduce inflammation. NAG is one of the few nutrients with the power to bind to the powerful wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) lectin, which can activate T cells and influence autoimmunity in susceptible people.
Slippery Elm
Slippery Elm has a soothing, calming effect on inflamed and damaged gut lining. Slippery Elm has been used by herbalists and native peoples for many hundreds of years for calming a range of gastrointestinal disorders. This soothing action can be attributed to its antioxidant action in the gut which has been proven in a number of clinical studies, some on inflammatory bowel disease patients where severe inflammation is present. In addition, slippery elm provides mucilage which coats and protects the intestinal lining from toxins and pathogenic organisms. Slippery Elm also contains the fiber-rich ingredient mucilage which stimulates mucus secretion (especially protective against ulcers).
D-Ribose
D-ribose is the backbone of the ribonucleic acid of DNA and RNA. D-ribose helps fuel the mitochondria and supports the body's energy cycle.
This document is intended as educational information. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition or disease.
Leaky Gut Syndrome and GAG's
Leaky Gut Syndrome is a condition which occurs when chronic inflammation causes the gut wall to develop microscopic leaks. Normally there is a barrier between the food within the intestines and the blood vessels that pick up the digested food and circulate it throughout the tissues and organs.
These blood vessels are located below the layer of cells lining the gastrointestinal tract. Digested food normally enters those blood vessels using two routes. It either passes through the cells lining the intestine or through membranes in between the cells.
Over 70% of food absorption occurs through the membranes. However, if the membrane barrier is damaged, whole food particles can enter the bloodstream. And this is bad - large particles of food trigger the immune reactions we refer to as "food allergies".
It is quite common for newborn babies to suffer from leaky guts, which explains why babies who eat table food during their first six months often suffer with food allergies. But once the immune system has developed and matured, a normal gut no longer experiences leaks.
Leaky gut is common in individuals with systemic inflammation and toxic overloads, such as those on the autistic spectrum or people suffering with a bowel condition or environmental toxicity. IntestiMend, by BrainChild, is our answer to help calm the symptoms of a leaky gut, and give your body the raw materials which may help it fix the damage and reduce inflammation.
What Causes Leaky Gut Syndrome?
Our modern lifestyles make us all vulnerable to leaky gut syndrome. We constantly irritate the lining of our digestive tract with high intake of sugars, food additives, herbicide-pesticide residues, alcohol and caffeine, dangerous bacterial strains, and FDA approved drugs.
This constant irritation results in chronic inflammation of the GI tract that leads to leaky gut syndrome. Antibiotics can kill our friendly bacteria causing an over-growth of fungi, yeast and dangerous bacteria that contribute to the chronic inflammation that leads to leaky gut syndrome. Many of our autistic kids cannot colonize friendly bacteria in their guts and are likely to have systemic inflammation, making them more susceptible to problems like leaky gut.
When the gut lining becomes inflamed or damaged, this disrupts the functioning of the system. Spaces open up in the gut wall, and allow larger objects, such as large food antigen particles, to be absorbed into the body. Normally the body sees only tiny food antigens. When it sees these new, larger ones, they are foreign to the body's defense system. This results in the production of antibodies against harmless substances such as food. Here are just a few of the possible factors contributing to inflammation in the gut:·
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Chronic Stress
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Intestinal infections
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Small intestine bacterial overgrowth
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Environmental contaminants
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Excess alcohol
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Poor diet
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Use of NSAIDS and other medications
What's so bad about a few Leaks?
It might sound good for the gut to be leaky, because it would seem that the body would be better able to absorb nutrients, such as amino acids, essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins. For the body to absorb a nutrient, such as a vitamin or mineral, it must be attached to a carrier protein. This protein hooks onto the nutrient and actually carries it across the gut wall into the bloodstream. When the intestinal lining is damaged through inflammation, these carrier proteins get damaged as well, so now the individual is more vulnerable to developing mineral and vitamin deficiencies.
Once the intestinal lining is riddled with microscopic holes, food allergies can develop. This is especially true of everyday foods. Some foods are more likely to cause allergies than others. At the top of the list of offenders are cow's milk, soy products, peanuts, corn, cheese, coffee and chocolate.
When the immune system attacks particles of these particular foods, it also worsens any preexisting autoimmune disease - such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or lupus. Since many of these conditions also exacerbate the leaky gut syndrome, flare-ups often mimic symptoms of exposure to certain foods.
Once the intestine is damaged by inflammation or toxins, the door is open for bacteria, viruses and fungi to enter the bloodstream. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, aching joints, confusion and difficulty thinking, as well as skin disorders such as eczema.
It has been suggested that high doses of glutamine can heal the gut. Several studies have demonstrated that glutamine has limited benefit. High doses may actually increase glutamate and trigger excitotoxicity, which is not desirable. This is why glutamine is not included in Intestimend.
In addition to the herbs and nutrients in Intestimend, other supplements helpful for leaky gut include
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Probiotics, particularly l. plantarum and l. reuteri
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Omega-3 fish oils
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Vitamins and Minerals, particularly magnesium and vitamin C
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Phosphatidylcholine and the other phospholipids (lecithin)
If Candida overgrowth is present, it should be treated. We suggest using rotated natural antifungals, as in the BrainChlid Natural Candida Program).
Because the entire lining of the gut is replaced every 14 days, healing of the gut can occur rapidly when you provide your body with all of the necessary nutrients. Food allergies may disappear or be less serious once the intestinal lining is repaired.
Our Favorite Kind of Gag!
What are GAG's and why are they Important?
While we're on the subject of gut integrity, let's talk about GAG's, how they relate to leaky gut, and what they need to function. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are like little shields protecting the gut wall, but they can only function when there are enough of them, and when they are "sulfated" (supplied with sufficient sources of sulfur). Fully sulfated (GAGs) provide a protective barrier in the gut and prevent leaky gut. One of IntestiMend's primary intentions is to provide sulfur for the body to use in rebuilding and sulfating GAG's.
GAG's are key elements of gut tissue, predominantly composed of sulfur-bearing amino acids bonded to polysaccharide sugar molecules. GAG's form much of the connective tissue and the basement membrane to which the intestinal mucosa is anchored. GAG's also form the glycocalyx, a viscous coating on the luminal surface, which protects the underlying epithelium from friction and exposure to digestive enzymes and microorganisms. Alteration of sulfated GAG's in the lamina propria and basement membrane has been observed in patients with Crohn's disease.
The body sheds GAGs when there is inflammation. For gut healing to be possible, we need to calm and reduce inflammation and to provide the basic material for our body to create more fully sulfated GAGs. IntestiMend contains herbs to calm and reduce inflammation. Sllippery Elm and Burdock are both helpful for this purpose. IntestiMend also contains several sources of sulfur and sulfate to help build new GAG's and supply them with the right kinds of sulfur. These sulfates also help increase the formation and sulfation of GAGs. Glucosamine in particular is used as a building block for GAG's.
There is a nutrient called glutamine, which is also used to build GAG's. However, under the right conditions, It is possible for glutamine to convert to glutamate, which is an excitotoxin (think MSG), and not helpful to body and brain health! This is why IntestiMend does not contain Glutamine.
Michael Lang's Natural Detoxification Program
Our founder, Michael Lang, developed a natural approach to chelation, as an alternative to prescription pharmaceutical drugs, which can "de-nature" the body, rather than supporting it in being healthier, and may be too harsh for sensitive individuals.
The program focuses on supporting body systems, especially organs of detoxification, so that they will be able to accomodate the increased flow of toxins out of the body, before we initiate active detoxification. You will introduce nutritional support, then support for cellular communication, glutathione production, live support, support for detoxification in the intestines and for sulfur metabolism. Then, in the last two steps, you will initiate gentle detoxification.
Michael Lang's Natural Detoxification Program
Michael's Presentation to the DAN! Doctors' Think Tank 10-10-2007
Vitamin Calendar
We have found that it is very helpful to have a written record of the supplements we are giving, both for planning future changes, and for looking back to figure out what happened. To help you with this, here is a simple calendar form we have used with our own children.
This particular one is what Terri used to help her 16 year old son record that he had taken his supplements, when he started to take capsules. When he took his vitamins and other supplements, he would put an "X" in the space, so he (and Terri) could see that the supplements had been taken.
Natural Candida Program
Many children on the spectrum suffer from chronic dysbiosis of their digestive system, including yeast, bacteria and other issues. Many adults also have candida overgrowth, due to the carb and sugar heavy western diet, and environmental health imbalances, which can effect digestion and vitality. Our effective yet gentle natural yeast program was developed for sensitive people, and features a rotation of natural antifungals, along with enzymes to eat the yeast cell walls, and Cell Power to help with gut oxygenation and Body pH.
Vitamin and Mineral Dosage Chart
FULL DOSAGE BY BODY WEIGHT
Liquids (REFRIGERATE AFTER OPENING)
Products will remain fresh for 3 months in the refrigerator after opened. Vitamins and minerals can be mixed together, and taken either straight or diluted with juice, water, milk, or any other drink. Take supplements three times a day with food (a protein-rich snack or meal is preferred). An alternate dosing method for optimum absorption is to give the minerals 20-30 minutes before the meal and the vitamins 20-30 minutes after. To avoid possible sleep issues due to over stimulation, the last dose of vitamins should be given at least 2 hours before bedtime. Close cap tightly, refrigerate, and keep bottle neck and cap clean.
Liquid-Caps (NO REFRIGERATION REQUIRED)
Supplements may be used until the expiration date. Vitamins and minerals can be taken together with a meal. An alternate dosing method, for optimum absorption is to give the minerals 20-30 minutes before the meal, and vitamins 20-30 minutes after. Store in a cool, dry place.
| Day 1-4 | 1/8 dose |
| Day 5-8 | 1/4 dose |
| Day 9-13 | 1/2 dose |
| Day 14-17 | 3/4 dose |
| Day 17 on | Full dose |
Please Do Not Begin at Full Dose!
These formulas contain safe but high levels of some B vitamins and minerals than you or your child may be used to. Starting with a low dose gives your metabolism time to adjust, acclimate to, and properly utilize the nutrients in the formula.
Start liquid vitamins and minerals at the same time, using the starting dosage suggestions at right. For Liquid-Caps, start at 1 a day, and increase every few days until at full dose.
PRINTABLE PDF FORM OF THIS CHART
Use only as directed and keep out of reach of children. Discontinue use in the presence of any sustained adverse reactions and consult your health care practitioner immediately.
Liquid Supplements Are Not Created Equal
Liquid Supplements must contain many types of ingredients that pills and capsules don't need. Liquids need sweeteners and flavorings to make them taste good, preservatives to avoid spoilage and suspension agents to help the nutrients stay in the liquid and mix together smoothly. All of these ingredients can be problematic, particularly for very sensitive people. BrainChild Nutritionals liquids use ingredients very carefully selected to avoid irritating sensitive systems. This is a big reason why BrainChild liquid formulas are the best choice, and do not cause the kinds of irritation often experienced with other products.
SWEETENERS
BrainChild: Kosher vegetable glycerine (low glycemic level, does not feed yeast)
The others: Sugar (feeds yeast), Aspartame (nerve poison) or sucralose (artificial), xylitol (can cause diarrhea), sorbitol (from corn syrup), maltitol (may worsen mold issues)
FLAVORINGS
BrainChild: Natural lemon and lime extracts, made from lemons and limes, nothing else.
The others: Artificial flavorings, natural flavorings with additives, natural flavorings made of high phenol or high oxalate fruits such as berries, apples and grapes.
PRESERVATIVES
BrainChild: Potassium Sorbate (safest)
The Others: Sodium Benzoate (petroleum-based; can create benzenes in combination with Vitamin C)
BOTTLES
BrainChild: High Density Polyethylene, also known as HDPE (the safest plastic)
The Others: PET or LDPE, both of which are cheaper materials and more likely to leach into the liquids. Some other companies' supplement bottles may even still contain BPA (bisphenol A), found to be dangerous to health.
OTHER ADDITIVES
BrainChild: None
The others: Propylene glycol (a natural gas derivative, also used in antifreeze)
Polysorbate 80 (an emulsifier and plasticizer, may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a carcinogen)
Citric Acid, an acidifier (can make some nutrients less effective, by acidifying them)
PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil (hydrogenated oils have negative health effects)
Support Information
How to Switch Formulas
If you are now preparing to transition your child from either one Spectrum Support formula to another, or from another manufacturer's vitamin or mineral supplement, here is a transition schedule to set up the phasing out of the old formula while gradually phasing in the new one.
It is important to allow for a gradual change between formulas to allow the body to better accommodate and utilize the new and higher doses of some of the nutrients in the upper tier formulas. The full switching over process takes about 16 days, so please plan ahead, to make sure you have enough of the old formula and new formula for the whole transition period.
| Days | Old Formula | New Formula |
| 1-4 | 7/8 of previous full dose | 1/8 of intended new dose |
| 5-8 | 3/4 of previous full dose | 1/4 of intended new dose |
| 9-12 | 1/2 of previous full dose | 1/2 of intended new dose |
| 13-16 | 1/4 of previous full dose | 3/4 of intended new dose |
On Day 17 on, give the full new dose and discontinue the old formula. If at any point in this progression, you notice hyper/anxious behavior or see or feel anything that makes you think the new formula is not being well tolerated, slow down and reduce the dosage of the new formula for a few days. Sometimes the body takes some time to adjust to new nutrients. If problems continue, please call us for help selecting a formula that better meets the individual's needs.
EXAMPLE
In our example, an individual is switching from Spectrum Support I (SSI) to Spectrum Support II. If this person was previously taking 2 tsp. of SSI with each meal, then your transition schedule to SSII would look like this:
Days 1-4: 1 & 3/4 tsp. of SSI with 1/4 tsp. each of SSII vitamins and minerals per meal.
Days 5-8: 1 & 1/2 tsp. of SSI with 1/2 tsp each of SSII vitamins and minerals per meal.
Days 9-12: 1 tsp. of SSI with 1 tsp. each of SSII vitamins & minerals per meal.
Days 13-16: 1/2 tsp. of SSI with 1 & 1/2 tsp. each of SSII vitamins & minerals per meal.
Day 17 on: Discontinue SSI and use 2 tsp. each of SSII vitamins & minerals per meal.
If the full dosage is smaller than 1 tsp. per meal, then we suggest that you begin with 1/8 teaspoon of the supplement for the first 4 days as your initial dose, then 1/4 teaspoon for days 5-8, and then follow the rest of the regular schedule.
If you are transitioning from many other supplements and aren't sure how to proceed, please feel free to email us or give us a call and we'll be happy to help.
What to Watch For in Giving Supplements to Children
Parents are the best judge of how their child is doing. You are looking for the many subtle signs that your child is doing well. There are many areas that 'doing well' can manifest. Just some of the areas we look for in our own children are:
- Stools - consistancy, frequency, color
- Sleep - duration, difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep
- Skin color - pale? flushed? different than usual? red ears or cheeks can be an allergy sign.
- Growth - any change in how they're growing
- Behavior - more or less energy than usual? moods different than usual?
- Immune health (whether they're catching a lot of colds, etc.).
One change that parents often notice is in activity level. Sometimes a child will jump up off the couch and start running around when they start really absorbing vitamin B6 for the first time. If your child is showing TOO MUCH energy, that could be a sign that the dosage is a little too high. Sleeplessness or restlessness at night can be a sign of too many B vitamins taken too late in the day. Please give us a call if you need support in adjusting your child's dosage, or have questions about which formula might be the best fit for their needs.
Storage and Travelling
Many of you have asked us about how to travel with our liquid supplements. Because they are liquids which require refrigeration, some preparations are needed. Here's an easy way to travel with our liquid supplements:
1. Calculate the total amount you will need to give while you are gone, of both vitamins and minerals. You may want to take enough with you for a couple extra doses, in case you spill or something.
2. Buy a Rubbermaid or similar plastic bottle at the grocery or drugstore that is large enough to hold the total amount of vitamins and minerals you will need. Pick up some large gallon-size zip lock bags, too, if you don't have them at home already.
3. A small thermal cooler can be very helpful for times when you're away from a refrigerator. We find that a zip-up thermal lunchbox or a "Playmate"-type cooler works well. You will keep the supplements in this cooler or lunchbox on ice during your trip, when you are not near a refrigerator.
4. Rinse the plastic container and lid, and run them through a dishwasher wash and dry cycle, to sterilize them.
5. Place the vitamins and the minerals both into the container and close the lid tight. Put the container in the fridge.
6. Make sure to pack anything else you might need for dosing the supplements, such as a measuring cup/spoon/syringe, etc. and whatever juice you may need for mixing them.
7. When you're ready to leave, just put the bottle of supplements in a large ziploc bag, with some ice, and put the bag into the lunchbox/cooler.
8. Take the lunchbox/cooler with you in the car, on the plane, or wherever you are until you get to your hotel. At the hotel, put the supplement bottle on ice in an ice bucket or in a refrigerator if you have one in your room. Just pack them up with fresh ice when you leave again.
9. If you are away from refrigeration, the supplements will be fine for at least 48 hours, at fairly cool temperatures. If you're camping, you can put the ziploc bag with supplement bottle into a stream or a pot of cold water to keep it cool.
10. If you are travelling to a country where there will not be refrigeration, we would be happy to help you order some of our trial size bottles to use on your trip.
Shopping
How to Order FAQDomestic Ordering
The easiest way to order is online. Select the "Products" link from our homepage, and choose the products you would like to order. We accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express. If you would prefer to order by phone, feel free to give us a call. If you would rather mail or fax your order, feel free to print out our order form and send it to us. If you mail a check, we will ship your order after it clears our bank. All orders placed online or sent to us ship from our California headquarters within two business days after we receive them.
International Ordering
If you are planning to have us ship to you outside the United States, please read the following information first:
We ship to most countries in the world.
1. We have distributors in Scotland, The Netherlands and Canada. If you need your order shipped to you in Europe or Canada, please use these distributors. For other countries, feel free to place your order online, and we will ship it directly from California if possible.
2. You will see an estimate of international shipping charges when you order.
3. We use several shipping services to ship international orders, depending on what works best for each country. For this reason, your shipping charges may be different from what you see when you order. If you wish to confirm your final grand total before we ship your order, just let us know that in the comments area.
4. If you have a particular shipping service you would like us to use, let us know and we will try to use it.
5. Please inform yourself of the customs requirements of your country, to avoid surprises. Some countries are more restrictive than others, about allowing supplements to be imported.
6. Please let us know any special information about shipping supplements to your country, so that we can mark the packages in a way that will give them the best chance of getting to you.
7. If your order is held by customs because of your country's customs regulations, we will not be able to refund your purchase. We cannot control foreign customs regulations, and this is the only way we are able to continue to ship internationally.
International Shipping FAQ
Europe
In Europe, our products are shipped directly from our distribution office in Scotland. You can order directly from our Phytoscience in Scotland or from Cenaverde in the Netherlands. Contact information is found on our "Contact" page.
Canada
Most but not all of our products are available in Canada. Contact information is found in our "Contact" page.
Other Countries
We will ship your order from our California headquarters. These orders are usually sent using US Postal Service Global Express mail. If you would prefer a different shipping service, you may request in the comments section of your order, and we will do our best to use it.
Here is a list of approximate shipping weights by Number of 32-oz bottles, to help in your shipping weight calculations
1 bottle = 3 lbs
2 bottles = 6 lbs
3 bottles = 9 lbs
4 bottles = 12 lbs
5 bottles = 15 lbs
6 bottles = 18 lbs
Return and Exchange Policy
Finding effective supplements for very sensitive people is often a challenging process of trial and error. We have personally experienced and understand the difficulty of this process. With the knowledge gained from our own experiences, we have made every attempt to provide the best tolerated liquid nutritional supplements. We look forward to working with you to determine which of our supplements may be best for you, maximizing your success while minimizing your expense in achieving it. We are committed to assisting you in this process.
PLEASE NOTE:
Spectrum Starter Kits have a separate Return policy. Please scroll to the bottom of this page for more information on returns from these kits.
1. We offer trial size bottles of most of our products for the purpose of determining tolerance of a particular supplement or selecting an alternative. The needs of particularly sensitive people will be better and more economically met by choosing this option and we strongly encourage you to use trial size products for this purpose. We do not issue refunds on trial size bottles.
2. To return any product for any reason, a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number is required. Just call or email us to get a number, then include it on the inside and outside of your box when you return the product. We will not give credits for returns received without an RMA number.
3. We will accept sealed, unopened products in saleable condition for refund of the full purchase price less a 15% restocking fee (you pay both delivery and return shipping) within 30 days of when you receive the products. Unopened products cannot be returned after more than 30 days. Unopened products must have an RMA number to receive a refund.
4. After products have been opened, we will refund 50% of the purchase price (less both delivery and return shipping) if returned within 30 days of when you receive the products, for any reason. Opened products must have an RMA number to receive a refund.
5. Refunds are generally issued in the form of a credit to the card the order was charged to, within 3 weeks of receiving your return. If the order was paid by check, a refund check will be issued. You can also choose to use your refund as a credit towards your next BrainChild purchase - just let us know you wish to do this when you call to get your RMA number.
SPECTRUM STARTER KIT RETURNS
Returned items from the Spectrum Starter Kit are handled as follows:
If the item you wish to return is opened, you will receive a refund of 50% of the retail price of the item.
Please call us to get an RMA number before returning any item, as described in our return policy. Because of the length of time needed for introducing all supplements, opened items may be returned anytime within six months of purchasing the kit.
Your kit includes trial size and regular size bottles of vitamins and minerals. Use the trial size bottles first, and if you see any behavior that makes you think they may not be a good fit, give us a call and we will help you figure out what to do. This may include suggesting that you slow down or change dosages, or sending you more trial size bottles, to help figure out which formula will work best for you. It may also include having you send your big bottles back so we can exchange them for a different formula.
Unopened items from this kit cannot be returned, unless you have a note from a doctor or other practitioner explaining why your child cannot use them.
Thanks for your consideration!
Have more questions? Please contact us!
