PANDAS - Male
What Does It Mean?
Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks neural tissues following a streptococcal infection. This results in neuropsychiatric symptoms, including obsessive-compulsive behaviors, anxiety, tics, and mood dysregulation. Functional medicine focuses on addressing immune dysfunction, reducing neuroinflammation, and restoring gut-brain balance.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes
- Autoimmune Reaction – Molecular mimicry leads to the immune system attacking neural tissues.
- Chronic Inflammation & Neuroinflammation – Persistent inflammatory responses contribute to behavioral and neurological symptoms.
- Gut Dysbiosis – Imbalanced gut microbiota can trigger immune dysfunction and affect neurotransmitter production.
- Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction – Increased permeability allows immune complexes to enter the brain, worsening symptoms.
- Post-Infectious Immune Dysregulation – Unresolved streptococcal infections can keep the immune system in a hyperactive state.
Signs & Symptoms
- Sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive behaviors and anxiety
- Motor and vocal tics
- Emotional instability, irritability, and mood swings
- Cognitive difficulties, including memory and attention deficits
- Sleep disturbances and fatigue
- Urinary frequency or regression in toileting habits
Diagnostic Criteria
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms.
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach
The treatment approach focuses on immune modulation, reducing neuroinflammation, supporting gut health, and restoring neurotransmitter function.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Provides probiotic strains to restore gut microbiome balance and enhance immune modulation. | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Endura | Supports hydration and electrolyte balance to aid nervous system regulation. | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Prevents bacterial adhesion and supports immune defense against streptococcal infections. | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Microbe | Enhances microbial balance to reduce gut-derived immune dysfunction. | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Reduces oxidative stress and supports immune function. | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports neurological and immune resilience through essential micronutrients. | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Helps regulate gut microbiota and reduce immune activation from dysbiosis. | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Aids digestion and nutrient absorption to support neurotransmitter function. | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| V-Pax | Supports mitochondrial energy production and immune resilience. | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Provides methylated B vitamins for neurotransmitter production and immune modulation. | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports neuromuscular relaxation and nervous system function. | 2 capsule with or without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic and neuroinflammation to support cognitive and emotional stability. | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Co-Q10 300 mg | Mitochondrial & cardiovascular support. | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita Defense | Strengthens immune function to help manage recurrent streptococcal infections. | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Acts as a master antioxidant to reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports immune modulation and hormonal balance. | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Strengthens gut barrier function to prevent immune hyperreactivity. | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Provides antioxidant protection to support immune and nervous system function. | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports gut and brain barrier integrity for improved immune resilience. | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Enhances circulation and oxygenation to support brain function and recovery. | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Neurological & Cognitive Support – Implement mindfulness techniques, breathwork, and relaxation exercises to regulate stress responses.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet – Encourage whole foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and gut-healing nutrients while avoiding gluten, dairy, and processed sugars
- Hydration & Detox Support – Ensure proper hydration and use gentle detoxifiers like glutathione to assist in immune system regulation.
- Immune System Monitoring – Track strep exposure, manage infections promptly, and maintain good hygiene to prevent reactivation.