Pyrrole disorder, also known as Pyrroluria or Mauve Factor; is a biochemical abnormality causing severe deficiencies in certain nutrients. The consequences can be varied as you’ll see in the wide range of signs, however there is a high prevalence of pyrroles in mental health disorders.
What are pyrroles?
For people with this disorder, they have elevated levels of the pyrrole, HPL, which is a by-product from haemoglobin metabolism (a protein that transports oxygen around the body). This pyrrole binds to, and excretes the key nutrients vitamin B6 and zinc in the body, making them unavailable to the individual.
What causes pyrrole disorder?
Whilst a gene is yet to be found, the condition runs strongly through families. Digestive problems (i.e. leaky gut), poor diet and stress can also lead to this disorder.
Experts in this field estimate that if a parent has pyrroluria, there is a 50:50 chance it will be passed on to a child. This rises to a 75% chance of inheriting the disorder if both parents have it.
Signs + Symptoms
The effect of pyrroluria can be mild, moderate, or severe depending on the severity of the imbalance. The most common presentation of pyrrole disorder is low mood and/or anxiety.
This is because both zinc and B6 play direct roles in neurotransmitter formation and synthesis. So deficiencies in these nutrients for instance, results in low brain levels of our happy hormone serotonin, and our calming GABA.
Pyrrole disorder often presents with:
* Anxiety and/or Depression
* Mood swings, particularly sudden outbursts of temper
* Poor stress response/control
* Sensitivity to loud noises and bright lights (often evident in young kids)
* Morning nausea and poor morning appetite
* Gastrointestinal disturbances
* Poor short term memory
* Other: acne, loss of appetite, cold hands and feet
Testing
We offer reliable pathology testing for pyrroluria, based on a urine analysis which tests for the excessive levels of pyrroles in the urine. It can measure the presence of pyrrole disorder and also the severity.
Treatment
Pyrroluria is treated by restoring the individuals vitamin B6 and zinc levels using specific forms and doses. In addition, biotin and evening primrose oil can be beneficial too.
Any underlying drivers like leaky gut syndrome, stress or poor diet will be addressed as well.
Depending on the severity and underlying cause, treatment for pyrroles can vary from 6 months to ongoing maintenance and care.
If you have a personal or family history of anxiety and/or depression, and interested in testing for pyrrole disorder, contact Amanda directly or book your appointment online.
