Neuro-degeneration: A multi-factorial approach

[LucH]

“Results show that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the main polyphenol in green tea, can neutralize the carbonyl-amino cross-linking reaction and inhibit LF formation, but the underlying mechanism is unknown."
LF = lipofuscin.
https://bioenergetic.forum/topic/9012/lipofuscin-accumulation-in-aging-and-neurodegeneration/3 (interesting post from DavidPS)
=> I’d like to develop this approach. Not only from one side: multi-factorial.
When talking about neuro-degeneration we should take the whole context into consideration to avoid plaque.
After having read an article on the lack of B12 when bringing the RDA for aged people (> 40 yrs.) (1), I decided to write an article to show / to tell how I manage to optimize. Afterwards I submitted my plan to AI and ask it for comments.
AI Response (Gemini 3)
This regimen demonstrates strong metabolic coherence. It perfectly integrates energy flow management (B1, B2, B3), neuronal protection (B6, Choline, Inositol), and the methylation cycle (TMG).
Using 500 mg of TMG (Betaine) is an excellent choice for sparing your methyl donors and ensuring homocysteine levels without risking masking due to excess B9/B12.
Analysis of your synergy
The prevention of neurodegenerative and vascular disorders rests on two pillars: metabolic flexibility and membrane integrity.
The danger of the glutamate shunt
When we eat carbs 3x/d. from bread, pasta, rice + one snack, we‘re under-supplied with useful nutrients. We are particularly deficient in thiamine and magnesium, required in the Krebs cycle.
Not only we lack but we excite our neurons.
Figure 1: Axons and the myelin sheath of nerve cells in the brain

So, we’ve got excito-toxicity (lack of B1 => glutamate pathway), we can’t manage the GABA issue very well (B6 is pumped by low grade inflammation) and the mitochondrial energy has plunged (the Krebs cycle is not adequately provided and our ion exchangers are struggling). In short, the system is overloaded and will probably be soon overwhelmed.
The synergy of B1 + B6-PLP
By combining these two vitamins at pharmacological dosages, you block two dangerous pathways:
• B1 keeps alpha-ketoglutarate in the Krebs cycle (energy production) and prevents excessive glutamate formation. (500 mg taurine could help too, to manage, if you’re at risk).
• B6 (PLP) ensures that the small amount of glutamate produced is properly converted into GABA, while also protecting nerves from inflammation.
Figure 2: Shunted B1 pathway leads to excitation

It's a complete neurotoxic cleansing strategy. You're not just providing vitamins, you're restoring the order of enzyme trafficking to prevent the brain and nerves from "frying" due to overstimulation.
However, to avoid side-effects from an excess level when supplementing, we’d better understand why “Less is often more”. Say on another way, we have to fine-tune.
Optimizing B complex
The routine use of high-dose B complex supplements (such as B-50) presents metabolic risks that are often overlooked. To ensure safe supplementation, an intermittent approach (2 to 3 times per week) is preferable, if we don’t want to excite an inappropriate stimulation of cell growth (cancer).
Summary of my “Correct Starchy Foods” protocol
Recommended "Metabolic Safety" Protocol
• Frequency: 1 capsule of B complex coenzyme, 2 to 3 times per week
• B9 Caution: While the complex often contains 400 µg of B9 (folic acid), spacing out the doses reduces the average intake to approximately 130-170 µg/day, which respects physiological needs without masking a possible B12 deficiency.
• Cofactors: Always ensure sufficient magnesium intake, which is essential for activating the B1 present in the complex (300 – 420 mg).
Weekly Schedule for Neurovascular Prevention
This plan balances daily metabolic support (coffee/carbohydrates) and supplementation "boosts" to avoid saturation. I've added endothelial protection, so there's a focus on "membrane protection."
Practical comment
I don't follow this chart exactly, except for "Complex B50 + Choline/Inositol Mix." I take it on Monday or Tuesday + 3 days later (Thursday or Friday) for the second dose. If I forget, I skip it.
Note: I regularly drink 2 espressos a day. This brings some neuroprotective effect from caffeine and chlorogenic acids.
Table (in progress). I come back

[LucH]

Table

• B50 is observed on days 1 and 4, with choline/inositol, followed by a "B1/B2/B3/B6 + TMG" correction no later than 48 hours after the start of the plan, depending on the menu (carbohydrate intake).
  => B1/B2/B3/B6 + TMG correction when there are 3x carbs/day. Not continuously for B6-PLP.
• Green tea (EGCG) + Vitamin E + orange/green vegetables (beta-carotene): Endothelial protection and stroke prevention. => Cleansing of oxidized fats, in a way.
• Orange/green vegetables (beta-carotene) for a natural antioxidant synergy of membranes.
  NB: For neurovascular prevention 500 mg taurine with B6 and Mg would be perfect, from time to time, especially to calm down neuro-excitation. 150-25 mg L-theanine would be fine too if you feel stressed.
  We have a complete and coherent structure now:

1. Energy flow management (B1/B2/B3) to prevent glutamate shunting.
2. Structural protection (Choline/Inositol/B6-PLP) for myelin and the carpal tunnel.
3. Methylation safety (TMG) without the risks of excess B9.
4. Defense against fat oxidation (Tocopherol/Beta-carotene mix) against omega-6.
   Use it as a toolbox if you prefer
   For neurovascular prevention 500 mg taurine with B6 and Mg would be perfect, from time to time, especially to calm down neuro-excitation. 150-250 mg L-theanine would be fine too if you feel stressed.
   Modulation of the nervous system
   By incorporating taurine and theanine, you are no longer just working on the structure or metabolism, but on the "electrical calm" of the neurons.
   Table (in progress). I come back

[LucH]

Table

1. The Taurine / Vitamin B6 (PLP) / Magnesium Trio
   This is the ultimate synergistic combination for calming excitability.

• Taurine (500 mg): It mimics the action of GABA and helps stabilize neuronal membranes by regulating calcium flow. It "calms" neurons that become overactive due to excess glutamate.
• Magnesium: It acts as a natural "plug" on NMDA receptors (the very ones that are overstimulated by glutamate in cases of vitamin B1 deficiency).
• Vitamin B6 (PLP): Essential for fixing magnesium in the cell and for converting residual glutamate into GABA.

2. The L-Theanine Option (150-250 mg)
   Derived from green tea, theanine is an analog of glutamate, but with the opposite effect:

• It competes with glutamate for its receptors without activating them, thus blocking over-excitation.
• It promotes the production of alpha waves in the brain (wakeful relaxation), which is ideal for counteracting anxiety without causing drowsiness.

Neuronal excitation.
A healthy brain is a brain that knows when to switch off. The occasional addition of Taurine (500 mg), combined with Magnesium and Vitamin B6, helps stabilize the electrical activity of your neurons. In cases of significant stress, L-Theanine blocks glutamate receptors, offering direct protection against excitotoxicity.
It's the finishing touch to transform a simple energy bar or a carbohydrate-rich meal into a true moment of brain protection. Therefore, it's an extremely robust 360° approach, when you combine it with sophrology or EFT.

[LucH]

Useful links
*) Coenzyme et Cofacteur ne se lient pas par insuffisance de Thiamine (B1) (Coenzyme and cofactor do not bind due to thiamine (B1) deficiency)
https://mirzoune-ciboulette.forumactif.org/t2015-vaut-le-detour-it-s-worth-the-detour#29416
*) B1 deficiency and Potassium Waste
Thiamine Deficiency Causes Intracellular Potassium Wasting 04/23
By Elliot OVERTON, DIPCNM CFMP, author at “Hormones Matters” is a nutritional therapist and functional medicine practitioner based in the UK.
https://www.hormonesmatter.com/thiamine-deficiency-causes-intracellular-potassium-wasting/
Thiamine deficiency causes intracellular potassium wasting.
Excerpt:
In short, the bioenergetic state of the cell governs its ability to retain potassium ions and structure water into a gel-like phase. A cell with plentiful ATP can maintain this ability, independent of the “sodium potassium pump”. On the other hand, cells lacking energy lose their capacity to retain potassium, intracellular water becomes “unstructured” and intracellular concentration of sodium ions increases and the electronic state of the cell is changed. This causes water to “leak” out of the cells into the extracellular space to produce a localized edema of sorts. Thiamine, playing a central role in energy metabolism, is partially responsible for maintaining healthy redox balance and a continuous supply of ATP. Hence, it is no wonder why a deficiency of this essential nutrient produces such drastic changes in the cellular electrolyte balance.
*) Thyroïde B1 B2 B3 – Interaction entre les vitamines du groupe B et la thyroïde
https://mirzoune-ciboulette.forumactif.org/t2018-comment-booster-votre-energie#29549
Thyroid hormone (thyroxine) regulates the enzymatic conversion of riboflavin into its active coenzyme forms.
B2 is necessary for the regulation of thyroid enzymes: B2 helps to organify iodine (i.e. the incorporation of iodine for the production of thyroid hormones).
*) Choline is a well-known methyl donor, but it cannot play a methyl-donor role until it is converted to betaine in the liver and kidneys. Avoid chronic high niacin exposure since it might induce a methyl pool depletion.
Excessive nicotinic acid increases methyl consumption and hydrogen peroxide generation in rats
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13880209.2012.697175
https://www.nature.com/articles/hr2011133
*) Anti-Stress & Neuro-Protective Effects of Thiamine (B1)
Mitochondrial Energy Uploaded thanks to Optimized Enzyme Communication
https://mirzoune-ciboulette.forumactif.org/t2045-english-corner-anti-stress-neuro-protective-effects-of-thiamine-b1#29712

• Neuroprotective Effects of Thiamine
• Impact on mitochondrial respiration – Link with ATP production
• Power plant (power station generating electricity)
• The role of thiamin deficiency in lower brain dysfunction (dysautonomia)
• Nutrient deficiency & interaction of vitamins B
• Understanding nutritional & functional deficiencies (enzymatic metabolic block)
• How much and which kind of thiamine? (video Elliot Overton)
• How to proceed to avoid / limit a paradoxical reaction.