Di-methyl-glycine (DMG)

Written by Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D.

DMG is another nutrient that, according to reports from thousands of families, is quite beneficial to many autistic individuals. Similar to vitamin B6 and magnesium, DMG is safe, relatively inexpensive, and helps about half of autistic children and adults.

Research on humans and laboratory animals have shown that DMG strengthens the immune system. The immune system is dysfunctional in many autistic individuals. Some autistic children and adults have seizures, and there are two published reports of decreases in seizure activity as a result of DMG (New England Journal of Medicine, 1982, 307, 1081-1082; Epilepsia, 1989, 30, 90-93).

Two studies have shown no improvements from DMG in autistic individuals; however, at least one of the studies used only half the recommended dose. A recent double-blind placebo-controlled study involving 84 participants doc-umented a significant decrease in behavior problems (Unpublished study by Drs. Shin-siung Jung, Bernard Rimland, and Stephen M. Edelson).

The recommended daily dose of DMG is between one to four 125 mg tablets for a child, and between two and eight tablets for an adult. Initially, a person should begin with one 125 mg tablet (a ½ tablet for a small child), and then increase the amount by one tablet every 2 to 3 days. DMG is also available in capsule, liquid, and sweet-tasting dissolving tablets.

There are no documented long-term side effects from DMG; however, in a few cases, parents report agitation and/or hyperactivity in their children. In these cases, it is recom-mended that folic acid also be given to the person. The suggested amount is two 800 microgram tablets for each 125 mg tablet of DMG. Some professionals suggest that DMG should always be supplemented with folic acid since folic acid cannot cause any harm, reduces the possibility of agitation/hyperactivity, and could possibly be more effective than when giving DMG alone.

Parents have also reported positive results with a similar product, tri-methyl-glycine (TMG). There are, as yet, no published reports on its efficacy for autistic individuals. TMG breaks down into DMG and SAMe in the body. SAMe is a nutritional supplement and is sometimes used to treat mood disorders such as depression.