Alternative supplements/gingko

I know a lot of families who want to know if I have ever used supplements (natural, vitamins, etc) with my son. The answer is no, but I think it's important families find what works best for THEIR families. Here is some info on gingko that I received this morning from Laura Watts, the director of the Down Syndrome Center at Hope Haven Children's Clinic in Jacksonville:

Ginkgo has been used to treat DS for decades. Some of the earlier vitamin therapy pioneers (back in the 50’s) included it in their formulas and parents have reported success, similar to what is on this site. As with any non-traditional, non-tested treatment, the reports of effectiveness are inconsistent and the safety of the supplement, such as long-term damage to organs, mental development, etc. is always a concern. Without formal studies neither of those factors can be measured enough for professionals with DS to advocate for the use of the supplement. That being said, the fact that positive anecdotal reports about gingko are still around may indicate effectiveness in some children – although what affect it has on others is uncertain.

Also – in children with dual diagnosis of ADHD/DS some supplements that are made to increase alertness have a truly adverse affect, sending them even further over the accepted energy level