Iron Definciency Related to Tics?

[LuluGirl]

I just read something in my Alternative Medicine magazine...It said that iron deficiency has been linked to neurological conditions. My son has a tic disorder, IMO, and his bloodwork has confirmed that he's iron deficient. Do you think supplementing iron would help? And ifso, what is the protocol for iron supplementation? He's only 12 but I don't think I can just keep giving him iron.....right?

 

Thanks,

 

Lisa

[Sheila]

Lisa, there have been some interesting studies on ADHD and iron deficiency (see link below for a recent one). The lower the serum ferritin (iron) the worse the ADHD symptoms.

 

So far there has been more emphasis on showing low iron levels in a higher than average number of people with ADHD than studying treatment with iron supplementation to see how symptoms improve—that will be the next step.

 

Since your son's lab works shows a deficiency it would make sense to supplement for general health, and then observe the response. I would ask the doctor who performed the blood work to advise you. Please let us know if you try it and find it useful. We hope it helps! (Does your child have ADHD in addition to tics?)

 

Best wishes, Sheila

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[LuluGirl]

Hi Sheila,

 

Thank you for your reply! My son would more be considered ADD than ADHD and, thankfully, it seems to be going away! We have worked on his diet and if I had to pinpoint any change I would have to say that would be it. However, it will be very interesting to see what happens with the iron supplementation. I will be sure to let you know!

 

Lisa