Peirson Center for Children

10/30/2025

As Down Syndrome Awareness Month comes to a close, we're reflecting on what makes every individual truly unique - not just in personality, but in biology.

Not every person with Down syndrome looks, develops, or responds to interventions the same way and science helps explain why.

Research shows that the effects of trisomy 21 are shaped by each person’s unique genetics and environment. Other inherited alleles and external influences modify how those extra genes are expressed, creating a wide range of outcomes across individuals.

🧬Beyond Trisomy 21: Phenotypic Variability in People with Down Syndrome Explained by Further Chromosome Mis-segregation and Mosaic Aneuploidy
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5837063/

Even within the same person, gene expression differs from tissue to tissue. It isn’t a simple 1.5× increase in activity for every triplicated gene. Expression is regulated by complex feedback systems that adjust levels dynamically.

🔬 The importance of understanding individual differences in Down syndrome
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4806704/

Recognizing this variability helps us avoid diagnostic overshadowing, the tendency to attribute every medical or behavioral concern to the diagnosis itself. When we look deeper, we see opportunities for personalized care that supports every child and adult with Down syndrome to truly thrive.



www.peirsoncenter.com

10/23/2025

🔍 Common Myths About Folinic Acid (Leucovorin)

Let’s clear up a few myths about folinic acid (leucovorin). We see a lot of confusion online, especially mixing it up with MTHFR, methylfolate, or general ‘folate support.’ In reality, this therapy is specifically aimed at restoring brain folate transport in children who have blocking antibodies to folate receptors.

“It’s for MTHFR mutations.”
Fact: Folinic acid doesn’t correct MTHFR enzyme issues. Its role is to bypass blocked folate receptors and restore folate transport into the brain. The MTHFR gene affects methylation of folate inside cells, while folate receptor antibodies block brain uptake. They’re two completely different pathways.

“It’s the same as methylfolate.”
Fact: Folinic acid and methylfolate are completely different molecules. Folinic acid supports intracellular folate cycling and brain folate transport, while methylfolate donates methyl groups in cytosolic methylation reactions.

“Everyone with autism or Down syndrome needs it.”
Fact: Only those with folate receptor alpha autoantibodies (FRAA) or signs of cerebral folate deficiency truly benefit. It’s not a one-size-fits-all therapy.

“It’s a vitamin, so you can’t overdo it.”
Fact: Folinic acid acts pharmacologically at high doses. The research doses (1-2 mg/kg/day up to 50-100 mg/day) are therapeutic, not nutritional, have the potential for significant side effects and should be monitored by an experienced physician.

“It’s safe to start on your own.”
Fact: Dosing and tolerance vary widely. Some children become more stimulated, anxious, or aggressive initially, so experienced medical guidance is essential.

“If it didn’t work at a low dose, it won’t help.”
Fact: Many clinical responses occur only at higher, physician-managed doses (up to 2 mg/kg/day or more), especially in FRAA-positive cases.

“You don’t need testing - just try leucovorin and see.”
Fact: While some children respond clinically, testing matters. Knowing whether folate receptor antibodies are present helps determine if brain folate transport is blocked and whether high-dose folinic acid is likely to help. It also avoids unnecessary or confusing supplement trials.

“A negative FRAT result means folinic acid won’t help.”
Fact: Not necessarily. Some children test negative but still respond, likely due to other transport or mitochondrial issues. However, a positive result strengthens the rationale for treatment.

“Leucovorin works on its own. You don’t need anything else.”
Fact: Many children do better when leucovorin is paired with key cofactors such as B12, lithium, and calming supports to help mitigate potential side effects.

Used correctly and under medical supervision, leucovorin can be transformative for language and cognition in some children, but it’s not for everyone. It’s powerful, precise, and should always be guided by testing and clinical context.

10/22/2025

🌿 What’s in the air & on the skin matters

We all love our homes to smell fresh, our lotions to feel nice, and our personal-care products to have a pleasant scent. But what if those fragrances and scented products were influencing more than just the sense of smell? Recent research suggests they could be influencing puberty in children.

Here’s what the science says

A 2024 study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that certain fragrance molecules, like musk ambrette, which is used in soaps, detergents, and lotions, activated hormone-receptor pathways in human and animal lab models. Specifically, they triggered receptors that sit in the brain’s puberty-control centre.
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/certain-chemicals-may-trigger-early-puberty-girls

Another paper (2022) reviewed how exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including phenols, phthalates and parabens commonly found in personal-care and household products might be linked to shifts in puberty timing.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9742306/

A 2019 clinical case-series found that in children using lavender-oil scented products (soaps, lotions, diffusers), breast development or prepubertal breast-changes resolved after discontinuing the scented products. The authors also showed that components of the oils had estrogenic (and anti-androgenic) effects in lab assays.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6773459/

Why this matters

Early (or altered) puberty isn’t just about starting growth earlier: it’s been associated with higher risks later in life (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, some cancers), as noted the 2024 study above.

Children’s bodies are especially vulnerable. Their hormone systems are developing, and small exposures can have bigger-than-expected effects.

Scented products and fragrances are everywhere: lotions, soaps, shampoos, diffusers, laundry detergent, scented candles, etc. Sometimes the label just says “fragrance”, which may mask dozens of chemical ingredients.

What you can do to reduce potential exposure

Choose fragrance-free or “unscented” products (and be cautious that “unscented” may still hide masking scents).

Read labels for “fragrance,” “parfum,” “perfume”. If they’re present, ask whether they disclose ingredients (often they don’t).

Use simpler products: plain soap, plain shampoo, minimal lotions.

Ventilate your home: open windows, use fans instead of relying solely on scented air fresheners/diffusers.

For the youngest kids, consider avoiding scented baby products and find more natural-ingredient alternatives.

Small changes add up. By choosing fragrance-free products, you’re protecting your child’s hormones and supporting a healthier puberty timeline. Our kids’ bodies are listening. Let’s give them the cleanest signals possible.

10/14/2025

💙💛 Down Syndrome Awareness Month: From Awareness to Action

Children with Down syndrome have unique gifts that shape families and communities in profound ways.

Supporting individuals with Down syndrome medically isn’t about changing who they are. It’s about helping them thrive.

Children with Down syndrome share some common biological patterns, but each one experiences these uniquely. Functional medicine helps identify which systems need the most support for that individual child.

⚡Mitochondria
These are the cell’s energy factories. In Down syndrome, mitochondrial enzymes can function less efficiently because of oxidative stress, B vitamin deficiencies or expression of genes on chromosome 21. That can lead to low muscle tone, slow motor development, or fatigue. Nutrients like CoQ10, riboflavin (B2), thiamine (B1), and carnitine can help improve energy metabolism so cells can do their job.

⚛️Methylation
Methylation helps the body make neurotransmitters, detoxify, and repair DNA. Some children with Down syndrome have altered methylation patterns that can affect attention, language, and mood. Supporting this process with active folate (folinic acid), methyl B12, and P5P (active B6) can help optimize gene expression and neurochemical balance, though the right approach is unique for every child.

🦋Thyroid Function
Thyroid hormones guide growth, metabolism, and brain development. Hypothyroidism is common in Down syndrome, but many children also have poor conversion of T4 to active T3 or elevated reverse T3, issues that basic screening can miss. Assessing a full thyroid panel and ensuring nutrients like selenium and zinc are adequate helps improve hormone activation and energy regulation.

💩Gut Health
Constipation, dysbiosis, and low pancreatic enzymes are common in Down syndrome and can impact nutrient absorption, mood, and immunity. A sluggish gut may also recycle toxins and hormones, creating inflammation and discomfort. Supporting healthy digestion with probiotics, fiber, digestive enzymes, and gentle motility aids can make a remarkable difference in energy, attention, and overall comfort.

🛡️Immune Regulation
Children with Down syndrome often experience more frequent infections or autoimmune tendencies due to imbalanced immune signaling. This can stem from oxidative stress, gut imbalance, or chronic stealth microbes such as strep or mycoplasma. Addressing underlying inflammation, restoring gut balance, and supporting the immune system with nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and NAC helps strengthen overall resilience.

☣️Oxidative Stress and Detoxification
Extra copies of genes like SOD1 and CBS on chromosome 21 can increase oxidative load, which can overwhelm detoxification and mitochondrial pathways. This may make some children more sensitive to environmental toxins or medications. Antioxidants such as glutathione, NAC, vitamin E, and alpha-lipoic acid can help rebalance redox status and support the body’s natural detoxification systems.

🥬Nutrient Status
Even with a balanced diet, gastrointestinal absorption issues can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Common deficiencies include zinc, B12, magnesium, vitamin D and iron. Using organic acid testing to evaluate functional markers of vitamin status combined with testing blood levels provides a clearer picture of how nutrients are being used in the body, helps identify the underlying cause of deficiency, and guides more precise supplementation.

😴Sleep and Nervous System Regulation
Sleep apnea, histamine intolerance, and iron or vitamin D deficiency can all affect rest and behavior in children with Down syndrome. Poor sleep disrupts growth hormone, mood, and learning. Evaluating airway health, histamine balance, calming neurotransmitter support and nutrient repletion can restore more restful sleep, which is essential for healing, cognition, and emotional regulation.

All of these areas can be measured and addressed through functional medicine. By using advanced lab testing, such as organic acid testing, stool analysis, and blood nutrient evaluation. We can see where the body needs extra support. This makes progress not just possible, but trackable and personalized for every child.

Every child with Down syndrome has their own pattern of strengths and challenges. Functional medicine doesn’t focus on what’s “wrong”. It looks at what’s possible when the body’s systems are supported to function at their best.

💙💛 Awareness is the first step. Action is where healing begins.

10/04/2025

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. We’ll be sharing information about Down syndrome all month long. 💛💙

Did you know?

Chromosome 21 contributes about 1.5 to 2 percent of the entire human genome. When an individual has an extra copy of this chromosome, as in Down syndrome, it results in a 50 percent increase in the presence of all the genes located on chromosome 21. Within this chromosome lies a particularly important segment known as the Down Syndrome Critical Region (DSCR), defined as 21q22.13 to 21q22.3. This region contains approximately 30 to 40 genes and represents about 37 percent of chromosome 21. Many of the genes most strongly associated with the physical and cognitive features of Down syndrome are believed to reside within this section. When scaled to the entire genome, the DSCR accounts for roughly 0.56 to 0.74 percent.

While this small percentage has far-reaching implications for health and development, it’s not the whole story.

Here’s the bigger picture: the other 99.3% of the genetics of a child with Down syndrome also plays an enormous role in how they present. Countless single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across the rest of the genome influence neurotransmitters, methylation, detoxification, immune regulation, mitochondrial function, and many other aspects of health and development. SNPs are small variations in DNA, single “letter” changes, that can alter how efficiently a gene works, sometimes subtly and sometimes in ways that significantly impact health. This is why individuals with Down syndrome are so different from one another, just like anyone else. Their unique genetic background shapes their strengths, their challenges, and their health outcomes.

This is why two children with the same diagnosis can look, learn, and thrive in completely different ways. Understanding both the impact of chromosome 21 and the contribution of the rest of the genome is key to supporting each child as an individual, not just as a diagnosis. 💙

10/02/2025

🌟 Down Syndrome Awareness Month 🌟

This month is about more than awareness. It’s about honoring each child and adult with Down syndrome as a whole person, not a diagnosis.

At the Peirson Center, we work every day to optimize the health of children with Down syndrome so they can thrive and rise above the outdated myths and misconceptions. That means looking at their individual medical needs; supporting digestion, metabolism, immune health, cognition, and more; not just following assumptions based on an extra chromosome.

Every child deserves to be respected as the unique person they are, with their own strengths, challenges, and potential. When we support their health in a personalized way, we give them the best opportunity to shine.

💙💛 Let’s use this month to celebrate their individuality and commit to a future where children with Down syndrome are seen, supported, and respected for exactly who they are.

10/01/2025

Dr. Peirson is honored to be speaking at the TACA National Autism Conference this October 10–12, 2025 in California.

She’ll be giving two lectures this year:
📌 Autism and Puberty
📌 Confident Supplementing: Choosing, Using, and Adjusting Safely

This conference is such a powerful opportunity for parents, caregivers, and professionals to connect, learn, and bring home practical tools to support children with autism and other special needs.

Learn more and register here:
https://web.cvent.com/event/97883cba-32c4-4cef-b70d-5917ca96e0ee/summary

We hope to see some of you there!

Can’t join us in person? A conference recording ticket is also available!

09/26/2025

Why checking your RBC magnesium matters more than just a serum test -

A standard magnesium test only measures what’s in your serum, about 0.3 % of your body’s total magnesium. Because the body keeps serum levels tightly regulated, they can look “normal” even when your cells are depleted.

A red blood cell (RBC) magnesium test is far more accurate. It measures what’s inside the cells, where magnesium powers over 300 enzyme reactions, supports ATP production, muscle function, mood, and brain health.

An optimal RBC magnesium is ~6.0 mg/dL or higher. Many patients we see are below this range.

If your RBC magnesium is low, supplements alone may not be enough. Specific cofactors help magnesium actually get into and stay inside your cells:

• Vitamin B6 (P5P form) - crucial cofactor for transport
• Taurine - stabilizes cell membranes and improves retention
• Potassium - works with magnesium in the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump
• Boron - helps tissues hold onto magnesium and calcium
• Zinc - must be in balance (too much or too little affects magnesium)
• Vitamin D - regulates TRPM6/7 magnesium transport channels
• Thiamine (B1) - drives ATP production, which powers magnesium pumps
• Glutathione status - antioxidants help protect magnesium stores from being drained by oxidative stress

In a controlled study of children with ADHD, those receiving a combined magnesium + vitamin B6 regimen (6 mg/kg magnesium + 0.6 mg/kg B6 daily for at least 8 weeks) showed a significant increase in intra-erythrocyte (RBC) magnesium levels and meaningful improvements in symptoms (less hyperactivity, better attention). When supplementation was stopped, both symptoms and RBC Mg levels declined again.

Improvement of neurobehavioral disorders in children supplemented with magnesium-vitamin B6. I. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorders
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16846100/

In an open trial by Mousain-Bosc et al., 30 of 52 hyperexcitable children (under age 15) displayed low intra-erythrocyte magnesium (ERC-Mg) levels, averaging 2.041 ± 0.279 mmol/L, even though their serum magnesium concentrations were not abnormal. With 3 to 24 weeks of magnesium plus vitamin B6 supplementation, ERC-Mg levels increased (to ~2.329 ± 0.386 mmol/L), and behavioral symptoms improved. The authors explicitly note that these children had “low ERC-Mg with normal serum Mg²⁺ values.”

Magnesium VitB6 intake reduces central nervous system hyperexcitability in children
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15466962/

Foods naturally rich in magnesium often come packaged with helpful cofactors:

• Dark leafy greens (chlorophyll is magnesium-based)
• Pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews
• Avocado and bananas (also supply potassium)
• Legumes and lentils (if tolerated)
• Dark chocolate (yes, in moderation!)

Be sure your child’s doctor orders an RBC magnesium test, not just a serum magnesium test, which can look normal even when cells are depleted. And check the comments for a link to order it yourself if your doctor doesn’t offer it.

If your child’s RBC magnesium is low, the next step is more than just “take magnesium.” Combine the right forms (glycinate, malate, taurate) with cofactors, a nutrient-dense diet, and good gut and mitochondrial health. Then recheck in 2-3 months to confirm you’re moving toward the optimal range.

09/24/2025

We’ve known for years that acetaminophen (Tylenol) is not as safe as many assume. Research has consistently shown links between its use and poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.

Back in 2017, Dr. Peirson wrote a blog post called “Don’t Suppress a Fever” where she laid out the science behind why acetaminophen is toxic and why using it, especially in children, can have long-term consequences.

If you want to understand exactly why acetaminophen is dangerous, you can read the full post here:

https://www.peirsoncenter.com/articles/dont-suppress-a-fever

It’s important to keep this conversation alive. Parents deserve to know the risks so they can make truly informed choices for their children.

09/23/2025

Dr. Peirson was interviewed by her friend and colleague, Dr. Kurt Woeller, about how she helps her patients with Down syndrome and other complex medical needs. You can listen here to find out more!

In this interview, Dr. Woeller has a conversation with Erica Peirson, ND who is naturopathic physician with years of experience working with children with Down Syndrome, autism, and other special needs conditions. Individuals with Down Syndrome have unique characteristics linked to their genetic con...

09/17/2025

🚨 Sevoflurane & Kids: What Parents Should Know

A 2025 study highlights that exposure to sevoflurane, the most common anesthetic used in infants and toddlers, may contribute to long-term behavioral and neurodevelopmental changes. Sevoflurane is chosen because it works quickly and is generally safe, but growing research suggests we should be proactive in supporting children around anesthesia.

Long-term impact of sevoflurane exposure on behavioural and neurocognitive outcomes in preschool children: protocol for a prospective cohort study
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12161350/

🔬 How it’s processed in the body

-Sevoflurane is metabolized in the liver through glucuronidation.
-It breaks down into fluoride and HFIP (hexafluoroisopropanol).
-HFIP circulates in blood mostly as a glucuronide conjugate, then is excreted in urine.

That means detox pathways, hydration, and antioxidant capacity all play a role in how well kids clear it.

Clinical sevoflurane metabolism and disposition. I. Sevoflurane and metabolite pharmacokinetics
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7793651/

🌱 Ways to support your child before & after anesthesia
(typically for a few days each side):

1. Support glucuronidation (detox pathway)
-Food high in calcium D-glucarate:
* Cruciferous veggies: broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower
* Fruits: apples, oranges, grapefruit
-Optional: Calcium D-glucarate supplement 12-24 mg daily

2. Offset fluoride exposure
-Liquid iodine: ~100-400 mcg daily with food

3. Protect mitochondria & cognition
-Liquid Coenzyme Q10 - 25-100 mg daily

Coenzyme Q10 reduces sevoflurane-induced cognitive deficiency in young mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28482003/

4. Support antioxidant defenses
-Vitamin C, NAC, or liposomal glutathione can help buffer oxidative stress
-Omega-3s and other anti-inflammatory nutrients may also support recovery

5. Hydration & elimination
-Encourage fluids (after anesthesia when allowed) to support kidney clearance of fluoride and HFIP

🩺 For Clinicians/Colleagues:

Mitochondrial vulnerability: Children with Down syndrome, autism, or known mitochondrial dysfunction may be at higher risk for oxidative stress and delayed recovery from anesthetics.

Inflammatory signaling: Some studies suggest sevoflurane can activate neuroinflammatory pathways; nutritional supports that calm inflammation (omega-3s, curcumin, resveratrol) could be considered in select cases.

Genetic polymorphisms: SNPs affecting glucuronidation (UGT enzymes) or GST detoxification pathways might make some children less efficient at clearing anesthetic metabolites.

Clinical monitoring: Post-anesthesia behavioral changes (irritability, regression, sleep disturbances) should be tracked and documented, as they may resolve but sometimes persist.

⚠️ Important notes

Sevoflurane can be necessary and lifesaving. These steps are not about avoiding anesthesia but about making recovery smoother.

These supports are not a replacement for medical care-always coordinate with your child’s medical care team.

Evidence for CoQ10 and iodine is still emerging, but both are safe, gentle options that can provide a buffer during recovery.

Short-term support may help smooth the detox process and reduce stress on the body.

Children with Down syndrome, autism, mitochondrial dysfunction, or detox SNPs may be especially vulnerable and benefit most from this supportive care.

09/13/2025

🌱 Vegetarian & Vegan Diets: Mind the Nutrient Gaps 🌱

When families choose a vegetarian or vegan diet, it’s important to remember that meat provides more than just protein. It’s a natural source of:

🟢Vitamin B12 → brain & nerve health

🟢Iron → energy & oxygen delivery

🟢Zinc → growth & immune defense

🟢Choline → memory & attention

🟢Creatine → fuels muscles & brain

🟢Carnitine → supports mitochondria

In vegan diets, even more nutrients are missing:

🔵Vitamin D (animal-sourced forms are most bioavailable)

🔵Omega-3 DHA & EPA (brain + eye health)

🔵Taurine (antioxidant & neurological support)

🔵Methionine (sulfur amino acid, needed for methylation)

For children with Down syndrome, these nutrients are especially critical. Their metabolism places higher demand on methylation, mitochondria, and antioxidants. Deficiencies can worsen fatigue, developmental delays, and immune issues.

It’s not enough to just supplement. Many of these nutrients can and should be checked with simple blood tests. Labs for B12, iron/ferritin, zinc, vitamin D, and homocysteine give a clearer picture of your child’s status and help guide personalized support.

✨ Vegetarian and vegan diets can work, but only with careful planning and supplementation. Partner with a nutritionally knowledgeable provider to safeguard your child’s growth and cognition.

Analytical Review on Nutritional Deficiencies in Vegan Diets: Risks, Prevention, and Optimal Strategies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39936826/

Impact of Vegan and Vegetarian Diets on Neurological Health: A Critical Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11901473/

Choline - The Underconsumed and Underappreciated Essential Nutrient
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6259877/

www.peirsoncenter.com