The Clinical Deep Dive on ADHD

Moving Beyond the Symptom Checklist

In traditional psychiatry, ADHD is diagnosed via observation. While this is necessary, our Clinical ADHD Functional Protocol takes it a step further by looking at the biological markers that drive those behaviors. If we can optimize the biology, we can often reduce the dose of medication needed or improve its efficacy.

Phase 1: Advanced Lab Testing and Targeted Diagnostics

We don't guess; we look at the data. Our diagnostic process includes:

• Ferritin (Iron Storage): Iron is a critical co-factor for the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase, which converts tyrosine into dopamine. Clinical studies have found that children with lower ferritin levels often have more severe ADHD symptoms [6]. We use Ojus Iron for its high bioavailability without digestive upset.

• Organic Acid Testing (OAT): This urine test looks at metabolic byproducts. It tells us if there is fungal overgrowth in the gut or if the patient is struggling to break down dopamine and norepinephrine.

• Inflammatory Markers: We check hs-CRP. High systemic inflammation can "leak" across the blood-brain barrier, causing what patients describe as "brain fog."

Phase 2: The Blood-Brain Barrier and Magnesium

Most magnesium supplements (like Citrate or Oxide) are great for the gut or muscles, but they struggle to reach the brain.

• Ojus Mag Threonate: We specifically use Magtein® because it is the only form of magnesium clinically proven to effectively cross the blood-brain barrier [7]. By increasing magnesium levels in the brain, we support "synaptic plasticity," which is the brain's ability to create new connections, vital for learning and memory.
  

  

Phase 3: Building Neurotransmitter Reserves

Medication works by moving dopamine around, but it doesn't create it.

• Ojus Serevital: This formula provides 5-HTP (for serotonin) and Mucuna Pruriens (a natural source of L-Dopa). By providing these precursors, we ensure the brain has a "full tank" of neurotransmitters to work with throughout the day.

• Ojus N.A.C: N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine is a precursor to Glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant. It helps protect the brain from oxidative stress and has shown promise in improving impulse control and emotional regulation.

Phase 4: Behavioral and Medical Integration

The final step of the protocol is ensuring that the "skills" match the "biology."

• Medication Coordination: We monitor how your Ojus protocol interacts with your prescriptions. By optimizing your levels of Zinc, Magnesium, and B-vitamins with Ojus OptiBoost Multi, we often find that patients experience fewer side effects from their primary ADHD medications [8].

Explore the Full Series: Foundation: Managing ADHD: A Holistic & Functional Medicine Approach Habits: Fuel, Habit, and Environment: Your ADHD Nutrition and Lifestyle Plan

Sources: [6] Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine - Iron Deficiency in Children with ADHD [7] Journal of Neuroscience - Enhancement of Learning and Memory by Elevating Brain Magnesium [8] American Academy of Pediatrics - ADHD Clinical Practice Guidelines