Brain Hormones
Neurotransmitters help orchestrate thoughts, emotions, appetite, memory, sleep, energy, and immune response. Brain hormones (neurotransmitters) include seratonin, dopamine, GABA, l-theanine, taurine, noradrenaline, and others, all of which are made from proteins. Brain hormones depend upon diet, toxins, energetic frequencies, hormone disruptors, intestinal health, other hormones, infections such as Lyme, genetics and more.
Balancing and supporting neurotransmitters improves health in many ways from mood disorders to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s to intestinal disorders.
Testing is done using morning urine samples.
Nutrition & Medications
Brain health is a reflection of overall health. It is well known that many medications deplete nutrients needed for good brain health. Appropriate nutrition may include dietary correction and supplementation. A diet appropriate for your genetics is very important to brain (and body) health.
Genetic, nutrient and food allergy testing serve to determine correct dietary needs.
Relationship to Intestinal Health
Brain function is affected by infections, flora, mal-absorption of nutrients, food allergies, gluten and lectins, and toxins. All of these things indirectly affect the production of serotonin and dopamine. There truly is a “gut-brain” connection!
Testing:
Stool and urine testing can identify parasites, metabolites, and other pathologic conditions.
Lifestyle & Sleep
Adequate, restful sleep is required for good brain health.
The brain detoxifies and organizes information during sleep.
The brain manages the immune system, which “reboots” during sleep.
Exercise improves circulation, oxygenation and detoxification in the brain.
Balanced other hormones support brain health.
Having a firm, healthy belief system promotes emotional well-being and coping skills.
Brain toxins include stress, sugar, alcohol, and EMFs.
Stress can physically damage the hypothalamus, an area of the brain vitally important for memory.
Excess sugar initially equals excess insulin, which damages the hypothalamus, liver, pancreas. It ultimately leads to diabetes.
Some authors believe there is no safe level of alcohol.
PEMF (Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field) Therapy is known to support brain health.
Infection & toxins
Lead and other metals and food additives such as aspartame have been identified as neurotoxins. Environmental toxins including mold, Lyme, viruses and bacteria such as strep can have profound effects on neurological function. Depression and anxiety may be masquerading as one of these conditions.
Careful clinical evaluation and testing are of utmost importance to preserve good brain health.
Genetics
Genetic testing can identify risks for developing Alzheimer’s and other adverse neurologic conditions. Additionally, it can identify errors in detoxification (genetic SNPs) affecting brain hormones (neurotransmitters). Celiac and gluten intolerance are also genetically predisposed. Once identified, there are effective corrections and support. Genetic testing is now widely accepted as important in both conventional and integrative care.