How to Take Supplements for Tourette's Syndrome

Tourette's syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes people to "tic." A tic is an involuntary movement or sound made by the person. It can be suppressed but not stopped. People with Tourette's syndrome (TS) make repetitive motor (movement) and vocal (sound) tics, and while they may appear to be out of the norm, most people with TS have average or above-average intelligence. Until the 1980s, most neurologists did not treat TS with medications or supplements. As antidepressants such as Prozac and Zoloft were developed, and anti-seizure medications came on the scene, TS began to be viewed as a condition that could be helped with medication. Unfortunately, many people with TS experience side effects from prescription drugs. By the 1990s, some patients began experimenting with over-the-counter vitamins, minerals and supplements to manage some symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Taurine
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Potassium
• Fish oil
• Vitamin C

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Instructions

• 1

  Consult with your primary care physician and/or neurologist before taking supplements. Some supplements may interfere with prescription medications you might take.

• 2

  Take taurine in amounts based on your weight. Taurine helps to calm the nervous system and can be a powerful aid in reducing tics.

• 3

  Take magnesium, a natural muscle relaxant. While you can consume magnesium-rich foods (such as almonds) to help increase magnesium intake, some people with Tourette's syndrome are found to be magnesium-deficient. While it's common to take magnesium and calcium together, some people with TS and tic disorders find that additional calcium can actually increase tics. Take the magnesium alone for a few weeks and consider adding calcium later if you wish.

• 4

  Add potassium to your supplement schedule. Potassium helps with muscles, and many people with TS report that taking potassium can help with symptoms.

• 5

  Swallow 1 tbsp. fish oil, rich with omega-3 fatty acids, each day. Cod liver oil is the most common form of fish oil. While it may not taste great (try lemon-flavored cod liver oil to break the taste), the omega-3 fatty acids help with neurotransmitters in the brain.

• 6

  Take vitamin C, a natural immune booster and antioxidant, which can help with tics.