I also produced a simplified explanation of Nanna s theory using Chatgpt, I am posting it below as it could help some people getting the principles:
This theory on Post-Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS) suggests that POIS symptoms result from a complex chain of biological events referred to here as the ?POIS Cascade starting with overstimulation of α1-adrenergic (α1A) and histaminergic (H1) receptors. This cascade triggers a rapid release of arachidonic acid (AA), leading to the production of inflammatory molecules, which then cause the flu-like symptoms associated with POIS.
Key Points of the Theory
1. Role of Norepinephrine and the α1-Adrenergic (α1A) Receptor:
- During orgasm, norepinephrine levels temporarily rise. In people with POIS, this norepinephrine surge overactivates the α1A receptor.
- Stimulation of α1A activates enzymes Phospholipase A2 and C, which release arachidonic acid (AA) from the cell membrane.
2. Release of Arachidonic Acid (AA):
- The release of AA, a pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid, activates enzymes 5-LOX and COX-2, which convert AA into inflammatory prostaglandins (such as prostaglandin E2), causing POIS symptoms.
3. Similar Mechanisms with Histamine and Glutamate:
- External triggers (e.g., allergens, food) may produce POIS-like symptoms through different receptors (H1 for histamine, NMDA for glutamate), similarly leading to AA release and inflammation.
Intervention: Blocking the POIS Cascade
The theory proposes blocking three main steps in the cascade to prevent POIS:
1. Reduce α1A and H1 Receptor Expression:
- SAM-e (S-adenosyl-methionine) is suggested to regulate α1A expression through methylation processes, which help stabilize the cell membrane and reduce AA release.
- Activated Vitamin B1 (Benfotiamine) can help downregulate H1 receptor expression, reducing histamine-triggered inflammation.
2. Inhibit NF-kB and Inflammatory Cytokines:
- Vitamin D3 inhibits NF-kB and COX-2, reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines (like TNF-α, IL-1B), which contribute to POIS symptoms.
3. Decrease Arachidonic Acid Release and Inhibit Pro-Inflammatory Enzymes:
- Omega-3s (EPA and DHA): EPA and DHA can reduce AA production by limiting its integration into cell membranes, thereby preventing the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins.
- The author also reduces dietary AA (avoiding omega-6-rich meats), lowering the amount of AA available for release.
Supplement Strategies
The author suggests two supplement protocols to manage POIS, each tailored to different situations:
1. The POIS Cascade Stack:
- This includes daily supplements (SAM-e, EPA, DHA, Vitamin D3, and various B vitamins) to inhibit the inflammatory cascade and maintain a biochemical environment less prone to triggering POIS symptoms.
2. The Betaherpesvirinae Stack:
- This protocol addresses a potential link between POIS and viral reactivation (such as CMV or HHV-6). It involves immune regulators and antioxidants (Vitamin D3, N-acetylcysteine, and selenomethionine) to prevent virus-related inflammation, used before sexual activity.
Conclusion and Insights
This theory suggests that POIS may result from an exaggerated inflammatory response, with arachidonic acid release playing a central role. By targeting each step in this cascade with supplements that act on receptors, inflammation pathways, and AA availability, the author reports relief from POIS symptoms.
