Newsletter #25: Medical News You Can Use
- Admin
- Nov 25, 2025
- 2 min read
Nov 2025
Childhood Inflammation Linked to Autism and ADHD
New analysis suggests that systemic inflammation during early childhood may increase long-term risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Researchers examined post-mortem brain tissue from children who had inflammatory illnesses (e.g., severe asthma) and compared them to controls. They found disrupted development in important brain cells in the inflammation group. The authors argue that early-life inflammation could change “wiring” in the brain regions responsible for motor control and cognitive modulation.
Why it matters: This study raises some very difficult questions. Many things can cause inflammation, including vaccines, especially when multiple ones are given at the same time. So far these have not been clearly linked to autism and ADHD. Hopefully more unbiased research will give us an answer.
B-Vitamins May Lower Blood Pressure When Medications Fall Short
Evidence is growing that B-vitamin supplementation could reduce blood pressure, especially in patients whose hypertension is resistant to standard drugs. A recent review looked at studies on homocysteine, a metabolite linked to vascular stiffness, and how B-vitamins (B6, B12, folate, riboflavin) lower homocysteine levels. In these studies, supplementing with B-vitamins reduced blood pressure by ~6–13 mmHg in some populations. The authors particularly emphasize people with “drug-resistant hypertension” may be the greatest beneficiaries. They also point out that many labs use an outdated cutoff for normal homocysteine, which could under-identify people who might benefit. This work is built on a study led by Dr. Merrill Elias in the American Journal of Hypertension.
Why It Matters: Homocysteine is a known risk factor for heart disease and cancer. It can easily be measured with a blood test. B Vitamins also have other benefits including brain function, cell growth and repair as well as improved metabolism. Ideally B vitamin supplements should be taken in the methylated form.
Recommended product: Metagenics Methylcare
Comments