Neurotransmitters and Your Health

Neurotransmitters are essential chemical messengers used by neurons in the brain to send and receive electro-chemical signals within the brain and facilitate communication with all the other organ systems in the body. These powerful neurochemicals are responsible for regulating practically all functions in life, such as cognitive and mental performance, sleep cycle, weight, pain perception and response and our emotional states.

Essentially they are the communication system of the mind, body and nervous system. To get a good picture in your head of what this means, you can think of your telephone service. A complex web of interconnections that allows communication to take place. Neurotransmitters literally govern every system in the body either directly or indirectly.

Medical researchers tell us that deficiencies, imbalances or malfunctioning of neurotransmitters is extremely common in our society and is at the root of many of common health conditions, because when neurotransmitters are not functioning properly then the mind and body do not communicate effectively. When communication malfunctions, then organ systems don't function as they should. This results in a variety of undesirable symptoms both physically and psychologically. Recent research suggests that approximately eight out of ten people suffer from some form of neurotransmitter imbalance.

Symptoms of Neurotransmitter Imbalances or Neurotransmitter Deficiency

There are many symptoms as a result of neurotransmitter imbalances or neurotransmitter deficiency, but these are some of the most common:

• Alcoholism and drug addiction
• Nicotine addiction
• Sugar addiction
• Caffeine addiction
• Carbohydrate addiction and/or binging)
• Sex addiction
• Gambling addiction
• Any form of addiction
• Obesity
• Migraine headaches
• Depression
• ADHD/ADD
• Anxiety
• Impulsive behavior
• Muscle problems
• Moodiness
• Restlessness
• Panic attacks
• Chronic pain
• Weight gain and inability to lose weight
• Kinetic disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Fibromyalgia
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Eating disorders
• Insomnia
• General malaise
• Poor concentration
• Hormone Dysfunction
• Memory Impairment
• Autism
• Tourette’s
• Parkinson’s
• Alzheimer’s
• Cognitive disorders
• Adrenal fatigue
• Excessive sex drive or low sex drive
• Mood swings
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

It's also important to note the symptoms of neurotransmitter imbalances or deficiencies overlap with many other conditions like adrenal fatigue, thyroid problems and hormone imbalances, so neurotransmitter testing is always recommended to rule out other possibilities.

What Causes Neurotransmitter Deficiency, Imbalances or Malfunctioning

There are eight primary causes of neurotransmitter deficiency, imbalance and malfunction:

1. Alcohol, drugs and nicotine (both prescription and illegal)
Alcohol and drugs are a catch 22. Many people with neurotransmitter imbalances or deficiencies often turn to alcohol and drugs to counteract or soothe the symptoms they are having from an already existing imbalance or deficiency and although initially they provide some relief, they ultimately damage and deplete neurotransmitters even more. Anyone with neurotransmitter issues is at extremely high risk of addiction. On the other hand, the use of drugs and alcohol cause neurotransmitter depletion as they overstimulate them to the point that they stop producing them.

2. Diet
Sugar and caffeine are the two most detrimental foods for neurotransmitters, but so is white flour and other refined junk food. A diet that is low in protein or high in complex carbohydrates is also a major contributor. Vegetarians are particularly vulnerable to neurotransmitter deficiencies because of the lack of meat protein that provides all the essential amino acids we need.

3. Environmental toxins
Common everyday chemicals found in most peoples homes like perfume, cologne, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, housing construction, personal care products, carpeting, pesticides, herbicides, nail polish, laundry soap, fabric softener, clothing etc., have a serious impact on neurotransmitters.

4. Excessive stress
High levels of ongoing stress also cause malfunctioning and depletion of neurotransmitters. This can be the result of a high stress lifestyle that doesn't ease up or stressful circumstances you must endure like a demanding job, poverty, chronic illness etc.

If you lived with child abuse or neglect as a child, chances are very great that your neurotransmitters are out of balance and/or deficient. The same applies to prisoners of war, victims of violence, victims of a natural disaster, civilians living in a war zone.

5. Genetics
Some people are born with deficiencies or malfunctioning neurotransmitters because they inherit them.

6. Nutritional deficiencies
Adequate levels of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients are crucial for the production and regulation of neurotransmitters. As much as 80% of the population is deficient in essential nutrients. Amino acid deficiencies is the primary nutrient needed for the production of neurotransmitters as well as healthy fats. Amino acid deficiencies are extremely common because they are derived from protein and most of the population is not eating enough protein.

7. Candida overgrowth
The overgrowth of Candida yeast is extremely common in our society and it too alters and disrupts the functioning of neurotransmitters.

8. Food allergies and sensitivities
Undiagnosed food allergies and sensitivities can inhibit or stimulate neurotransmitter activity.

Steps to Improve Production & Functioning of Neurotransmitters

• No smoking


• No drinking or drugs


• No sugar


• No caffeine


• No white flour and other junk food


• Keep blood sugar stable


• Eat a high protein diet - preferably meat protein


• Identify food allergies and sensitivities and adjust diet accordingly


• Regular exercise - but not too strenuous or excessive. Extreme exercise can actually deplete neurotransmitters, so exercies should be mild.


• Spiritually fulfilling activities like prayer, meditation, yoga, daily walks, time with nature, art, music, making love, nurturing relationships, writing and public service provide health stimulation to neurotransmitters.


• Reduce environmental toxins in your living space and work environment


• Address Candida overgrowth


• Get adequate sunlight


• Reduce stress and adopt daily stress management techniques


• Get adequate sleep


• Identify nutritional deficiencies and address with supplementation accordingly


• Amino Acid Therapy -- Once extensive neurotransmitter depletion has occurred it is very difficult to replenish them through diet and lifestyle changes alone. A balanced amino acid supplement is usually required along with their specific cofactors. Amino acids are the building blocks of neurotransmitters and supplementation with an amino acid formula and specific co-factors can bring neurotransmitters back into balance.
  
  Common prescription drugs on the market that are used for depression, anxiety, Parkinson’s, hyperactivity, OCD, etc., work by altering the neurotransmitters in the brain; when you hear a disorder described as a “chemical imbalance” the chemicals they are referring to are neurotransmitters. However, the problem with prescription drugs is that in the long run they actually make the problem worse. They deplete the neurotransmitters even more and create even more imbalance. Amino acids give the body what it’s missing naturally. They heal and restore balance to the neurotransmitters.
  
  Sometimes it may be impossible to keep neurotransmitters in balance without ongoing supplementation. As we learned earlier, environmental toxins, stress, Candida, diet, etc., all have a negative effect on and deplete neurotransmitters; and some of these factors, like environmental toxins or excessive stress, may be out of our control and continually throw our neurotransmitters out of balance. If the neurotransmitter deficiency is the result of genetics, it will probably be necessary to continue to replenish them through amino acid supplements as well.

Do You Have Neurotransmitter Deficiencies or Imbalances?

A simple urine test can tell you which neurotransmitters you are deficient in and what supplements you'll need to take to correct the imbalance. I recommend neurotransmitter testing by NeuroScience, which you can find below. They are the leading authority in neurotransmitter issues and provide a simple urine test you can perform in the privacy of your own home that will identify your imbalances and provide you with a detailed protocol with recommendations for supplementation and dosages that are required to correct them.

Although random supplementation with amino acids may be helpful for some people, the most effective approach is to be tested and know exactly which neurotransmitters you are deficient in and take the supplements that are needed for your specific body chemistry. Taking too much of amino acid or supplement when you don't need it can put the neurotransmitters further out of balance.

Knowing which neurotransmitters are out of balance is also important because they work together and sometimes one is the precursor to another. For example, glutamate is derived from glutamine, which is an amino acid, and GABA is derived from glutamate; so if you're deficient in glutamate, you may also be deficient in GABA.

Hormones and Adrenals

Neurotransmitters also work in conjunction with hormones and adrenal glands, so it is also helpful to evaluate these levels as well. Hormones and adrenal glands need balanced neurotransmitters to function properly and neurotransmitters are also impacted by hormone levels and adrenal functioning. Their relationship is reciprocal. In order to get one functioning properly, balance needs to be restored in each.

All systems in the body work in conjunction with one another and affect each other and certain neurotransmitters also impact adrenal functioning. Hormones have a profound impact on neurotransmitters and vice versa. If these systems aren't functioning adequately, additional support may be necessary; suggestions will be provided with the test as well.

Please see the other fact sheets on Adrenal Fatigue and Hormone Imbalance for more information on these topics.

Neurotransmitter Testing

The tests provided below are an effective tool to use in your self-care plan to assess and correct any neurotransmitter conditions you may have and help you determine which course of natural treatment will be most beneficial in an existing condition or before symptoms become severe enough to cause a condition.

All lab tests and recommendations are performed and come from NeuroScience, the leading authority in neurotransmitter testing and correction through nutrition.

Basic Neurotransmitter Test - Price $280.00

The Basic Neuroscreen Test Will Assess the Following:

-- Serotonin
-- Dopamine
-- Epinephrine
-- Norepinephrine
-- Dopac
-- Taurine
-- 5-HIAA
-- Glycine
-- Glutamate
-- GABA
-- Histamine
-- PEA
-- Creatinine

Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation

The NeuroAdrenal Test -- Price $325.00

The NeuroAdrenal test is a comprehensive test indicated for those who wish to test both neurotransmitters and adrenal glands. It consists of providing a urine and saliva specimen that you collect at home then send back to the lab in the postage paid package. You receive a copy of the test results and treatment recommendations. Lab test and recommendations come from NeuroScience, the leading authority in neurotransmitter testing and correction through nutrition. Includes a 15-minute consultation.

The NeuroAdrenal Test Assesses Levels of:

-- Dopamine
-- Serotonin
-- Epinephrine
-- Norepinephrine
-- GABA
-- Glutamate
-- PEA
-- Histamine
-- DHEA
-- Creatinine
-- Cortisol 4 times in one day

Free 15 minute phone consultation

NeuroEndocrine ProfilePrice $385.00

The NeuroEndocrine test is a comprehensive test that is indicated for those who wish to test their hormone levels as well as their adrenal glands and neurotransmitters. It too consists of a saliva and urine test that you collect at home then send back to the lab in the postage paid package. You receive a copy of the test results and recommendations. Lab test and recommendations come from NeuroScience, the leading authority in neurotransmitter testing and correction through nutrition. Includes a 15-minute phone consultation.

The NeuroEndocrine Test Will Assess the Following:

-- Dopamine
-- Serotonin
-- Epinephrine
-- Norepinephrine
-- PEA
-- GABA
-- Glutamate
-- Histamine
-- Creatinine
-- Progesterone
-- Estardiol
-- Dihydrotestosterone
-- Testosterone
-- DHEA
-- Cortisol X 4

Free 15 minute phone consultation

Neurosleep Neurotransmitters Test $265.00

This test is indicated for those whose primary symptom is insomnia or sleep difficulties. It consists of a simple saliva and urine sample that you collect at home and send back to the lab in the postage paid envelope. You receive a copy of the results. Includes 15 minute consultation.

The Neurosleep Test Measures for the Following:

-- Melatonin
-- Cortisol
-- Norepinephrine
-- Epinephrine
-- Dopamine
-- Serotonin
-- GABA
-- Glutamate
-- PEA
-- Histamine

Free 15-minute phone consultation.

Neurotransmitter Test for Autism $330.00

The Neurotransmitter Test for Autism is indicated for those whose primary symptom or condition is Autism Disorder. It consists of a simple urine sample you collect at home then send to the lab in the postage paid envelope. You receive a copy of the test results and recommendations. Includes a 15 minute consultation.

The Neurotransmitter Test for Autism tests the following neurotransmitters:

-- Serotonin
-- Dopamine
-- Norepinephrine
-- Epinephrine
-- GABA
-- PEA
-- Histamine
-- Glutamate
-- Glutamine
-- Taurine
-- Gycine
-- Creatinine.