Disrupted patterns in our brain waves, particularly the balance of gamma and beta waves, has been observed in ADHD, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, autism, Alzheimer's dementia, Major Depressive Disorder, Parkinson's disease and Huntington's motor disease. These conditions share malfunction in the brain's 'drum section', the parvalbumin interneurons, which seem to set the rhythm for gamma waves.
Dissociative Identity Disorder reveals disruption in brain wave patterns, but the malfunction seems to be more regionally specific and caused by changes in signaling from the brain's 'band conductor', the somatostatin interneurons.
This suggests that rational function, 'consciousness', relates to our having steady brain waves, which are coordinated across functional regions of the brain in order for us to 'pay attention' or make rational decisions, or simply stay awake and alert.
Nutrient support and avoiding some dietary chemicals can help improve the balanced signaling that we need for improved functioning. Rhythmic exercise or listening to synchronizing music or frequencies, while avoiding chaotic or desynchronizing rhythms may also be a direct help, supporting dysfunctional parvalbumin interneurons that may no longer be 'playing a steady beat'.
Calming or helps detox:
Electrolytes: magnesium and adequate potassium and sodium without an excess of calcium supplementation;
Amino acid support: glycine, Dimethylglycine, serine, taurine; Avoid excess glutamate which is common in food seasonings (MSG and many others) and it is naturally rich in tomatoes and cheese.
B-vitamins: methyl folate (not in excess, 400 mcg) and B12, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, choline, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, and betaine may be needed for some, but my own gene differences mean I need glycine/DMG, and avoid excess betaine (also called TMG, tri-methyl glycine).
Rhythmic exercise and sunshine help normalize brain waves and support mitochondrial function. Problems with mitochondria are linked to disruption in cognitive and physical health and problems with the somatostatin and parvalbumin cells.
Disclaimer: This information is being shared for educational purposes within the guidelines of Fair Use and is not intended to provide individual health care guidance.
This podcast episode was unscripted--I think the information is important to share . I plan to add a link with supporting references later.